Parts of the refuge are maintained as wildlife sanctuary areas and are closed to the public. Visitors should know the meaning of the refuge signs and be aware of refuge regulations to avoid disturbing wildlife. No camping, fires, swimming, off-road vehicle use, or dumping is permitted on the refuge. Hunting and fishing activities are confined to specific areas and dates. Muscatatuck's climate is characterized by hot, humid summers.
Winters are usually mild with light snowfall.
The best times to see wildlife are in the early morning and early evening. March and November are good times to see large concentrations of waterfowl on the refuge. Shorebird and warbler migration peaks usually occur around the first week of May. Binoculars and field guides are helpful to have when visiting the refuge. Horseflies are sometimes a nuisance during the summer and hats may be helpful. When hiking the trails move slowly and remember that patient, quiet observers see the most wildlife.