At refuge, recreational opportunities abound
April 2, 2021
During the spring and summer months, Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge provides a variety of ways to get out of the house and experience the wonder of the prairie, oak savanna and wetlands. The refuge is open a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset daily for permitted activities, and there is no entrance fee or parking permit required. Restrooms are available at the Blue Hill, Mahnomen and Oak Savanna Learning Center trailheads year-round. Whether you enjoy walking your dog, taking a hike, riding your bike, fishing or paddling, the refuge bursts with opportunities.
That being said, spring and summer are also when wild animals are nesting and raising their young. Wildlife sanctuary is in effect from March 1 to Aug. 31 annually and was established in an effort to limit and lessen the stressors on these new parents. During this six-month time frame, recreation is allowed only in designated areas and those include the Oak Savanna Learning Center, Mahnomen and Blue Hill trails, Prairie’s Edge Wildlife Drive, fishing access points and designated canoe route. Service roads and the interior of the refuge are off limits to the public while wildlife sanctuary is in effect.