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The best camping in Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer, WA

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Discover the serene habitat of the Columbian White-Tailed Deer. 

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer

Wild Blackberry Heights

1. Wild Blackberry Heights

92%
(43)
2.3mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
A seasonal stream flows through forested wild lands to a 100-foot waterfall plunging over basalt cliffs into the Columbia River. Open meadows on two knolls frame a natural amphitheater. A rough road crosses the creek leading hikers and bikers to the town of Cathlamet (about a mile away) with its brewery, restaurants, and marina with self-service kayak rentals.
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Columbia River Camping

2. Columbia River Camping

92%
(65)
2.9mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site · Tent, RV
Beautiful riverfront camping located in Puget Island Washington. Enjoy a private campsite on over 400 ft of riverfront access. Across the river from Bradley State Park and a historic bluff. Bring all of your fishing gear, it is known for the best sturgeon fishing (which is catch and release all year round) Free Washington Fishing APP FishWA at the app store on your phone. Enjoy biking around the island and kayaking on the Columbia River and in the sloughs. Boat launch is located just around the corner! Ferry access to Oregon is just a few miles away. 40 river miles from the Coast. Enjoy the quaint town of Cathlamet, 3 miles away with breweries, restaurants, shops, grocery store and the marina. RV parking with power (30 amp hookup) on the road. We require when tent camping that the tents are pitched where the rv parking is, due to rising waters with the tide. We will not be responsible for any refund of stay or damaged property if tents are pitched anywhere other than roadside pullout. This also goes for car camping or RV camping. Disclaimer: This is a shipping channel and tides vary day to day, hour to hour, so make sure you do your due diligence and check tide tables. In the wintertime, at high tide water comes up farther on the property. PLEASE NO BURNING GARBAGE IN THE FIRE PIT
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Electrical hookup
Campfires
West Sunny Sands Beach Campsites

3. West Sunny Sands Beach Campsites

90%
(73)
4mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Ideal 215' along the Columbia River. You are 41 river miles from the Pacific Ocean. Picnic tables, fire pits You are on the south shore of Puget Island looking at Coffee Pot Island, an uninhabited, out of the way island providing deep water docking. Bring you fishing poles for fishing off shore or launch your boat 1/4 mile to the west at Svensen Boat Ramp (River Mile 41). Bring your paddle boards, kayaks, canoe or jet skis. visit Coffee Pot 300 yards away from our shoreline. Less than 1 mile to the Cathlamet Ferry to Westport, Oregon (3miles away). 3.5 miles from Cathlamet, Wa. (Est. 1846), Brewery, Elochoman Boating Marina, restaurants, shops, banks, grocery store, pharmacy and a historic 5 room hotel. Enjoy the quiet charm of a PNW country island. Close to historic Astoria, OR, a short 5 minute ferry ride and 23 miles of beautiful scenery. Disclaimer_ On very rare occasions when the winds are from the southwest the sounds from the WAUNA papermill on the Oregon side of the river may be audible. Sort of a low drone noise. The locals have gotten used to it and don't take notice. The prevailing winds are usually form the west, sometimes the east (up and down the rive). NOTE: There is a fire ban on, but campfires are allowed as long as they are in the provided fire pits. FREE Washington Fishing APP FishWA App at the APP store on your phone. Current Regulations, Locations & Species. Download today!
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Columbia river view

4. Columbia river view

97%
(80)
4.4mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site
Learn more about this land:Hi Campers! Come stay and enjoy a sandy beach with a gorgeous view of Oregon, across the Columbia River. It's only 5 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 2 minutes to the ferry. So bring your water toys, rent my kayaks or just sit back and relax. A few things to note: In order to visit Oregon, it is a 15 minute ferry ride or you can drive the scenic route, which takes about an hour. For more ferry information, like times and costs, please google the Wahkiakum County Ferry. If you are with a larger group than what the site allows, please inquire with owner for additional pricing.
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Slow Boat Farm - Island Camping

5. Slow Boat Farm - Island Camping

99%
(207)
4.8mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site · Tent, RV
We can host up to 8 people comfortably. Wide open spaces, kayak launch, and small-scale farming form a unique culture at Slow Boat Farm. Camp on Puget Island, in a peaceful, pastoral setting with views of the hills and cliffs on both sides of the river. Fire ring is available year round regardless of fire bans. A large grassy field offers ample space, and a private kayak launch is a short walk through a cottonwood forest. You will enjoy a private camp spot with shade or open space, where we can accommodate multiple vehicles. Larger groups can be accommodated - contact us! Slow Boat Farm is a large meadow, five acres of grass and wide open spaces plus a great view the gorge cliffs. Camping is available late April through September 30. 2025 KEY EVENTS: July 26 - Puget Island Gardens Music Festival Little Island Relay, Little Island Creamery. - recently re-scheduled to 2026.
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Elkenmist

6. Elkenmist

97%
(76)
5.9mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to the the alchemy of Elkenmist! 125 acres nestled into 250,000 acres of mossy, mushroomy, forested fairy lands. Where the Willapa hills meet the mouth of the Columbia River. We are a mellow regenerative agriculture farm and portal to liminal landscapes. Come meet the sheep, feed the horses, drink from the spring, meditate in the yurt, hike the hills and feed your spirit. Let the land attune you.
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Sisu Camping Retreat

7. Sisu Camping Retreat

93%
(20)
14mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property is conveniently located just off State Route 4 in Grays River, Washington. We have over 10 acres of open pasture land, along with creekside camping sites and walking trails around the property. Currently, we offer boondocking sites only, no amenities. Please note that we do NOT have restroom facilities. The property is a 30-minute drive from Astoria, Oregon, and Long Beach, Washington. Local attractions include the Grays River Historic Covered Bridge, Duffy's Irish Pub (they have limited hours), and various nearby river access points.
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Potable water
HolisticLifeFarm Clatskanie OR

8. HolisticLifeFarm Clatskanie OR

98%
(449)
15mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Holistic Life Farm! We are a working homestead and delight in sharing our daily experience and offer visits with our sheep, cows and chickens. Holistic Life Farm offers a 1 dry tent site for up to 12 people, a quaint hideaway cabin, and a glamped out 16x20 canvas tent with a wood stove. We also offer 1 RV site in our parking area. Stop on your way to Astoria and the coast and make this your destination. Find us about 30 minutes off I-5 freeway across the Longview bridge or 45 minutes east of Astoria. Our farm sits about 5 miles off Highway 30 to the north. We can direct you to hiking and mountain biking trails in the area (Beaver Falls trailhead is 5 miles from our farm). There is a motor boat launch in the town of Clatskanie, with access to Columbia River. There is also a launch in the city park for kayaking. The Zen Monastery is just 5 miles away. Long Beach, WA is across the Columbia River via the Astoria Bridge. Lounging about the homestead works too.
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The Rock On The Columbia

9. The Rock On The Columbia

91%
(23)
23mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site
Welcome to our RV site nestled along the picturesque Columbia River! Wake up to sea lions, the melodies of birds, and the sight of eagles soaring overhead. As the day unfolds, watch the stunning sunsets behind the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge. Situated just across the river from Astoria, our property offers the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility. A quick five-minute drive will take you to Astoria, while the charming shores of Long Beach await just 15 minutes away. Immerse yourself in outdoor adventures with hiking trails, historical sites, and the Discovery Trail all within a 10 to 20-minute drive. Please note that our site is only for self-contained RVs or campers. The site has electrical hookups only; there is no potable water or bathroom facilities available onsite. We kindly ask that you carry out any trash with you. Amenities such as picnic tables are currently in the works and coming soon. We hope you enjoy your stay!
Electrical hookup
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Peace on Earth

10. Peace on Earth

99%
(153)
23mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site
When you visit our little "piece" on Earth we hope you feel the "peace" we do.  After spending many years living in the city, we found a place where we feel the calm and solitude we've been wanting and needing for a long time. Now, we want to share it with you.  A 10-acre "piece" of "peace" on Earth.  Come join us for a day or two.  
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J Squared River Ranch

11. J Squared River Ranch

96%
(150)
24mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
This property is currently in development. It offers tranquility, with occasional visits from deer. River access is just a short distance away, providing opportunities for fishing, sunbathing, or floating along the Cowlitz River. Just follow the pink flagging from our "Black Tail River Trail" sign at the south end of the grounds along the mowed path into the woods to the river. Approx 750' from the sign. *please note: Every year the beach changes due to the dam's releasing water in the winter/spring and weather related flooding. Sometimes our beach is large or small. Access to beach changes as well. Conveniently located near the towns of Kelso and Longview, and only 2.7 miles from Castle Rock. A day trip to Mt St Helens is very possible. Two full hookup sites are available, two water/power sites, along with ample dry camping areas. We have a porta potty as well. Horses are welcome on the property, as are leashed/penned and friendly pets. Dogs can be off leash at the river, but be courteous and aware of other dogs. Please clean up after your animals! Cell phone coverage is good here, we do not have wifi available. We offer firewood for sale (cash) and allow propane fire pits in our fire pits during burn bans. We also have a community fire pit for our dry campers (or large groups) called the Lave Pit, directly across from our dry camp area. We follow the Cowlitz County burn ban, July 15-Sept 30. Unless fire danger is high, at which point we still follow Cowlitz wood fire bans. Motorized off-road vehicles are allowed ONLY for transport of gear to/from the river or for those with mobile disabilities. We ask that you are respectful of the trails and drive slowly. Please note: we will no longer refund due to poor weather. Hipcamp offers insurance for this. No fireworks allowed. During Independence day celebrations, our neighbors partake and it can be loud here.
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Cowlitz Riverside Retreat

12. Cowlitz Riverside Retreat

96%
(26)
24mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
AT THIS TIME WE ARE CLOSED!!!!!! DO NOT AUTO BOOK!!!
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Cowlitz River Camping

13. Cowlitz River Camping

92%
(58)
24mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site · Tent, RV
Private RV campsite located right on the Cowlitz River above the Toutle River. The fish are always running and fishing on the Cowlitz is open almost all year round. Secluded site, but just miles away from the cute town of Castle Rock WA, where you can enjoy shopping, eating, beer tastings and a trip to Mt. St Helens isn't a far drive. Enjoy floating or kayaking down the river, swimming, fishing, and enjoying the sunshine! There is a small creek located on the property with the perfect amount of shade. Flat area for tent pitching and a large gravel driveway that can accommodate multiple RV's. PLEASE NO BURNING GARBAGE IN THE FIRE PIT THERE ARE HOUSES NEARBY SO PLEASE RESPECT QUIET HOURS AFTER 9PM THE HOUSE NEXT DOOR (CAN NOT REALLY SEE IT) HAS THEIR OWN SPOT ON THE RIVER, PLEASE DO NOT USE ANYTHING ON THEIR SIDE OF THE PROPERTY.
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Electrical hookup
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Relax at the River

14. Relax at the River

98%
(140)
24mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site · Tent, RV
We have a 1/2 acre property on the Cowlitz River in the middle of Cooks Ferry Park in Castle Rock WA. We bought the property to relax in a beautiful setting close to home. We only live 15 minutes away. The property is made up of dredge spoils from when Mt. Saint Helens blew and is inside of a park where people can go to fish and enjoy the river. There are only 8 lots privately owned and we are the first lot that you come to. There is plenty of room for an RV. Guests can also tent camp or stay in our shack that has a sleeper sofa. There are snacks, a sign in book, an axe, briquets, a fire extinguisher, and other items the shack. ​There is a picnic table, fire pit, BBQ, and wood stove. There is a porta potty on the property. We value your privacy. We do have cameras on the property that are on when no one is there. Once a Hipcamper arrives at the property, they are turned off. We also keep our travel trailer there to enjoy when we can. We will never be there camping when you are there. In the summer, we sometimes kayak. We put in upriver and get out at the property. If it is booked at that time, we will always check first to see if it is okay for us to get out there. If you continue going past our property, there are some nice rock beaches with pretty views. People fish there and wade in the water in the summer. Castle Rock is a cute little town with some nice shops, restaurants and bars. I recommend checking it out! We are not picky about check in/check out time. It would only matter if someone else was checking in the day you are checking out. Please ask if you expect to arrive earlier or want to check out later. If your plans change, please cancel through Hipcamp to get a refund.
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Isla Springs

15. Isla Springs

94%
(132)
25mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Hipcampers are encouraged to bring their own porta potty facilities. Beautiful wooded 22-acre campground with the Olequa creek running through it. Loaded with wildflowers, fruit trees, newly planted trees. Gravel and dirt roads circling throughout the area. Wood stoves in most campsites for cooking on and warmth. There is a big area that can be used for events.... We are conveniently located 4.8 miles off I-5 between Portland and Seattle.
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Lost Valley Farm Camp

16. Lost Valley Farm Camp

100%
(379)
25mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
We hope you will come enjoy the refreshing privacy and quiet of camping on our beautiful, small-scale, organic farm. This is a great place to get away from the scattered urgency of modern life. We want you to reconnect with what matters most and get some new inspiration! We are 25 minutes west of I-5, halfway between Seattle and Portland. Pacific Ocean beaches are 1.5 hours away. Our guests love the near-by swimming hole, shared fire areas, fresh produce and clean outhouses. Meeting the farm animals, napping in the hammocks, mastering the rope swing and wandering the many paths are also memory-makers. Some of our "extras" -- Farm Tours, Propane Firebowls, Saunas, and more -- are available for purchase when you make your booking. ALL SITES have flat tent spots, a picnic table, hammock, sun, shade, outhouse access and room to park. Sites are 300 feet apart, on average. More details about each site can be seen in the listing. {PLEASE NOTE that some photos have been uploaded by guests and are not actually posted in relation with the correct site #} If you are un-sure WHICH ONE to choose, send a message describing your "party" and desired experience. We will help you select a site. We also have areas that can be turned into a "group kitchen" if you want to reserve the ENTIRE camping area for a reunion, party, retreat, training, etc. Come recharge yourself in our little corner of God's Pocket!
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Creek Side Camping at a Brewery on a Farm

17. Creek Side Camping at a Brewery on a Farm

100%
(23)
26mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Come camp along Jones Creek on our 10 acre family farm which is also home to Jones Creek Brewing, yes you read that right, a hip camp with a brewery on site. The two campsites along our creek are nestled away from the house and even further from our dead end road and perfect for backpackers and bikepackers. We also have a gas and charcoal grill available for use at our brewery. Bathroom is available during business hours. If booking during non-business hours for the brewery, you may pick up items to-go by appointment. Brewery hours are Friday from 4pm-8pm, Saturday from 12pm-8pm and Sunday from 12pm-6pm. There are many great outdoor activities nearby including the Willapa Hills Trail, which runs 56 miles from the city of South Bend along the Willapa Bay to the city of Chehalis. Rainbow Falls State Park is 6 miles from our property and has wonderful access to the Chehalis River and great hiking trails in a beautiful old growth forest.+ This is a Leave No Trace location. + Please pack out all trash and human waste.+ Masks or facial coverings are REQUIRED for everyone while inside the brewery tasting room and restroom regardless of vaccination status. Masks provided if needed.
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Potable water
Glamping In The Wild

18. Glamping In The Wild

100%
(13)
28mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 2 sites
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape! Just 90 minutes from either Portland or Seattle, this cozy glamping site is located on 220 secluded acres of private wilderness along the Chehalis River. Sleep in a cozy queen-size bed! There's propane heat, power, WIFI, and a lovely stone firepit. Come relax, hike, and explore! This wilderness campsite is located down a 2-mile gravel logging road which is steep and bumpy in a few places! Four-wheel drive is recommended in the wettest part of the winter, and please drive carefully any time of the year in whatever vehicle you bring. As a guest, you are free to access any part of the 220-acre property except other campsites (there is currently only one). This listing is located on The Riverbend Preserve, a private nature park, so there is no hunting, fishing, or foraging. Please do not discharge any firearms during your stay. The forest to the west of the Preserve is Washington State land, and on occasion locals go up into the hills to target shoot. In the unlikely event that this happens during your stay, don't be alarmed; the British are *not* coming. This land is a nature preserve with lots of wildlife. You're welcome to bring your pet, but keep small animals close to you as there are coyotes and predatory birds in abundance. Black bears and mountain lions also live in the hills, so please always be cautious while hiking and exploring. If you use AT-T, Verizon, T-Mobile, US Cellular, or most major carriers you can expect good cell service. Single use or small cellular carriers may have intermittent signal or no signal at all after you leave the City of Chehalis behind. Most important of all, relax and enjoy your stay in this incredibly peaceful and secluded valley. Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints!
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Rhett's Ranch

19. Rhett's Ranch

95%
(28)
28mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Rhett's Ranch is more than just a piece of land—it's a living tribute to the memory of Rhett, a beloved son who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. Nestled on 30 acres of fields surrounded by trees, Rhett's Ranch is a sanctuary for those seeking solace and connection with nature. At the heart of the ranch is a large open barn, a versatile space that serves as the focal point for gatherings and events. With three stalls and an indoor/outdoor concrete floor, the barn offers shelter and flexibility for a variety of activities, rain or shine. Rhett's Ranch is just 5 minutes to the Port of Ilwaco where you can reserve local Charter boat to go out fishing or crabbing. There are many hikes available as well as North Head and Cape Disappointment Lighthouses to enjoy and Waikiki beach with weekly live music. Saturday Market in Ilwaco is May through September. Long Beach is just a 10 minute drive where visitors can check out the beach, fly kites, enjoy many eateries and shop the Friday Market and local shops! Fun towns also nearby are Astoria, OR, just a 15 minute drive south and Oysterville and Ocean Park are a quick 25 minute drive North! The Rodeo Grounds are located on Sandridge Road in Long Beach. The 2024 Long Beach Rodeo is July 27th and 28th, 2024. Limited horse stalls are available to rent during this time. But Rhett's Ranch is more than just a venue—it's a place where memories are made and cherished. Animals are not typically at the property however, at special events or extended stays (4+ nights) visitors can encounter a menagerie of animals, from mini ponies and donkeys to goats, pigs, and cows. These furry friends serve as a reminder of Rhett's love for all creatures great and small, and they provide endless joy and companionship to those who visit the ranch. For those seeking privacy and tranquility, individual "bump outs" offer secluded spaces for camping and reflection. Tire climbing structures provide entertainment for the young and young at heart, while community horseshoe pits and cornhole boards offer opportunities for friendly competition and camaraderie. Above all, Rhett's Ranch is a place of peace and healing, where the beauty of the natural world serves as a balm for the soul. Whether you're seeking solace, connection, or simply a moment of quiet contemplation, you'll find it at Rhett's Ranch—a place where the spirit of a beloved son lives on in every blade of grass, every rustling leaf, and every joyful laugh.
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Camper in the Firs

20. Camper in the Firs

94%
(31)
28mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site
Overlooking the North Fork Toutle River, this relaxing spot gives a great view of the river. Bald eagles, deer and elk visit frequently. Camper has been updated and includes WiFi and AC. Charcoal Weber grill is available on the deck. A fire pit area has just been added! Go into town and enjoy the restaurants and bars in Castle Rock. Swimming can be done at Woodard-Gould Park just down the road. Plenty of hiking up at Mt. St Helens. We do not have hot water or showers available, limited potable water.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer camping guide

Overview

About

Embark on a captivating Columbian White-Tailed Deer National Wildlife Refuge camping experience, where nature and tranquility intertwine. Nestled within the refuge's sprawling expanse, camping near this location grants you the opportunity to witness the grace and beauty of the endangered Columbian white-tailed deer in their natural habitat. As you explore the trails, keep your eyes peeled for a chance encounter with other wildlife, such as bald eagles soaring above or river otters frolicking along the water's edge. Immerse yourself in the pristine surroundings, capturing stunning photographs and creating cherished memories. The Columbian White-Tailed Deer National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled camping expedition, where serenity and wildlife encounters harmonize, creating a truly remarkable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

When to go

The best time to visit the Julia Butler Hansen Refuge is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the wildlife is most active. Summer brings lush greenery, but also higher visitor numbers. Winters can be harsh, with limited access due to weather conditions, making it less ideal for visits.

Know before you go

  • Check the refuge's official website for any seasonal closures or special alerts before planning your visit.
  • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for walking through natural terrain and bring binoculars for bird watching.
  • Respect the habitat by staying on designated trails and observing wildlife from a distance.
  • There are no camping facilities on-site, so plan your accommodation accordingly.
  • Be mindful of the tide schedules and boat safety if you're exploring the islands within the refuge.

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