National Wildlife Refuge Events

Go Wild This Fall

At National Wildlife Refuges

Discover a world of natural wonder and outdoor adventure this summer at national wildlife refuges. Thrills await, whether you visit a refuge to see wildlife, enjoy a hike or a tranquil paddle, or catch a bass or a bluegill.

Wildlife refuges can help you get fit while you're seeing wildlife up close. In 2010 more than 40 million people visited a national wildlife refuge, generating about $4.2 billion in economic activity, according to an October 2011 report commissioned by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, a nonprofit conservation organization. Sample a refuge event and find out what all the excitement is about.

September Events
October Events
November Events

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National Public Lands Day, September 29, 2012

• This year National Public Lands Day (NPLD) is September 29, 2012. The day is a fee-free entrance day at many federal public lands including national parks. It is also a great opportunity to help a local or favorite public land near you and spend the rest of the day recreating or relaxing on the land.

National Public Lands Day educates Americans about the need for stewardship of these valued lands, and builds partnerships based upon mutual interests to enhance and restore public lands.  And with volunteer assistance, lands are improved for outdoor recreation.

The program began in 1994 and typically held on the last Saturday in September.
The web site has many resources available. You can register your public lands site, and find other sites or events taking place in your area.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is a partner of Public Lands Day along with other federal agencies, and numerous other state, non-profit, and featured partners.

Regional Events

Did you know there are over 70 National Fish Hatcheries and more than 550 National Wildlife Refuges, many

within a 1- hour drive from your house? No matter where you live, there is a natural area close by to visit, whether it is a community park, state park or your national wildlife refuge or hatchery. These areas often have trails, waterways, campgrounds, gardens and events to enjoy.  Pack up the family and get to know each place together. Go back often so you really can enjoy and learn about what they have to offer. Check to see if they give tours, learn about their history, and make your own adventure.  Make sure to bring a nature journal to record all the different types of wildlife you see. Wildlife is EVERYWHERE. For ideas, use the web sites below to explore online; then explore them in person – with your friends and family.
Nature Rocks
Naturefind, National Wildlife Federation

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Local Events

Getting your family outdoors can be as simple as opening the door to the backyard or as exciting as going camping.  And as your children grow bigger and more capable, adventures outdoors can grow in complexity with them.  The important thing is to begin when they are young – as soon as they can crawl – to let them experience the wonders of nature. The web sites below will give you ideas about outdoor family fun.
Your Guide to Hunting on National Wildlife Refuges, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Your Guide to Fishing on National Wildlife Refuges, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Find Activities, Nature Rocks
Nature Clubs for Families, Nature Rocks
Great American Backyard Campout, National Wildlife Federation

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Playful Pathways: Changing the Way Families Play

Pathways for Play helps communities create networks of shared use pathways, infused with play pockets, and usable by all for healthy recreation and non-motorized transportation to connect meaningful destinations.