Visitor activities include fishing, boating, and birdwatching. Boat ramps are available at Headquarters Recreation Area, and Hillsboro Recreation Area. An observation tower, observation platform, nature trails, and a 5.5 mile canoe trail begin at the Headquarters Recreation Area. The refuge is closed Christmas Day and refuge hours daily are 6 a.m. to sunset. Closing times are posted at the entrance gate.
Seasonal passes are available.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the principal Federal agency responsible for conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish and wildlife and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. The agency enforces Federal wildlife laws, manages migratory bird populations, restores nationally significant fisheries, conserves and restores wildlife habitat such as wetlands, administers the Endangered Species Act, and helps foreign governments with their conservation efforts. It also oversees the Federal Aid program that distributes Federal excise taxes on fishing and hunting equipment to state wildlife agencies. This program is a cornerstone of the Nation's wildlife management efforts, funding fish and wildlife restoration, boating access, hunter education, shooting ranges, and related projects across America.