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Audubon National Wildlife Refuge wilderness guide
National Wildlife Refuge · ND

Audubon National Wildlife Refuge

Audubon National Wildlife Refuge provides a habitat for diverse wildlife species and offers scenic views, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.

National Wildlife Refuge14,7352+ Trails

Designation

National Wildlife Refuge

Total Wilderness Area

14,735

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Audubon National Wildlife Refuge

Audubon National Wildlife Refuge provides a habitat for diverse wildlife species and offers scenic views, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Audubon National Wildlife Refuge is located in central North Dakota and forms an integral part of a migratory waterfowl pathway. The landscape around the refuge is characterized by vast wetlands, grass prairies, and islands. These habitats support a variety of wildlife, including waterfowl, songbirds, and mammals such as white-tailed deer and coyotes. The refuge was established in 1955 to serve as a sanctuary for migratory birds and aims to conserve the natural environment of the region. Visitors to the refuge can explore nature trails and observe the wildlife from observation decks. The area is especially appealing during the spring and fall migrations when masses of birds pass through. The refuge's primary purpose is wildlife conservation, but it also offers recreational activities like wildlife photography, birding, hiking, and interpretation programs that educate visitors on the ecology and history of the region.

Field Guide · National Wildlife Refuge
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Audubon National Wildlife Refuge

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover the Knife River Indian Villages★ 6.5⌖ 25 miCultural Exploration
Knife River Indian Villages

Discover the Knife River Indian Villages

Explore Knife River Indian Villages near Stanton, ND. Enjoy easy walks through historic sites with cultural signs, birdwatching, and canoeing opportunities. Best visited in spring or fall to enjoy mild weather and serene landscapes.

Cultural ExplorationView Details→
Riverside Retreat at Missouri River Natural Area, Mandan, ND★ 7.5⌖ 50 miWildlife Viewing
Missouri River Natural Area and Trailhead

Riverside Retreat at Missouri River Natural Area, Mandan, ND

Missouri River Natural Area near Mandan, ND offers easy access to riverbank trails and calm waters ideal for wildlife viewing, fishing, and kayaking. Best visited late spring to early fall, this peaceful spot features abundant waterfowl and gentle walks along the river.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→
Scenic Lakeside Retreat at McDowell Dam Recreation Area★ 5.5⌖ 53 miFishing
McDowell Dam Recreation Area

Scenic Lakeside Retreat at McDowell Dam Recreation Area

Located about 10 miles northeast of Bismarck, ND, McDowell Dam Recreation Area offers an easy lakeside escape with calm waters ideal for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. The peaceful setting and accessible shoreline make it a great spot for families and nature lovers year-round.

Lake Sakakawea: North Dakota's Hidden Gem★ 7.8⌖ 65 miBoating
Lake Sakakawea

Lake Sakakawea: North Dakota's Hidden Gem

Explore Lake Sakakawea, one of the largest man-made lakes in the U.S. Located near Williston, ND, it's ideal for boating, fishing, and camping. Enjoy its peaceful setting and wildlife. Best visited in spring or fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Audubon Wetland Management District✦ Diverse Migratory Bird Populations✦ Self-guided Auto Tour Routes✦ Nature Observation and Photography Hideouts
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Audubon National Wildlife Refuge

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Audubon National Wildlife Refuge
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Audubon National Wildlife Refuge
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Audubon National Wildlife Refuge
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Audubon National Wildlife Refuge
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Audubon National Wildlife Refuge.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Audubon National Wildlife Refuge

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Underwood
⌖ 10.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Underwood, North Dakota

A quiet riverside town offering easy access to paddling and fishing adventures, plus nearby natural areas for hiking and birdwatching.

Late spring through early fallExplore Town
Washburn
⌖ 18.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Washburn, North Dakota

A quiet riverside town offering peaceful access to outdoor activities along the Missouri River and nearby lakes, with seasonal adventures in a rural North Dakota setting.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Garrison
⌖ 21.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Garrison, North Dakota

A relaxed gateway town offering access to premier lake-based recreation and scenic prairie landscapes with opportunities for both water and land adventures.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Mérida
⌖ 22.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mérida, Mérida State

A vibrant Andean town nestled in the Venezuelan Andes, offering high-altitude adventure, diverse landscapes, and a gateway to cloud forests, glacial peaks, and paramos.

December to MarchExplore Town
Stanton
⌖ 24.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Stanton, North Dakota

A serene spot along the Missouri River offering peaceful outdoor experiences combined with historical exploration.

Wilton
⌖ 29.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wilton, North Dakota

A quiet, rural town offering peaceful access to North Dakota’s open landscapes, perfect for travelers seeking low-key outdoor activities and exploration.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Audubon National Wildlife Refuge

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.