Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge 

About

Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1965 and is managed to promote the health and well-being of migratory birds and their habitat.

The refuge is celebrated both for its wildlife and the extraordinary opportunities provided to visitors. The upland habitats are dynamic, ranging from grasslands to oak savanna to forest. These are interspersed with a variety of wetland and river habitats ranging from sedge meadow to deep water marsh. The refuge is designated as a state Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society. Today, visitors may still discover the excitement that might have been felt over 100 years ago, as early pioneers stepped out of the “Big Woods” and onto the edge of Minnesota’s magnificent tallgrass prairie.

In October, thousands of sandhill cranes converge on the refuge marshes and a visit at dawn or dusk will provide the rare treat of large flocks of birds flying in or out of the refuge.

The majority of the refuge is designated a wildlife sanctuary and closed to all public access from March 1 to August 31 to allow wildlife to breed and raise their young free from human disturbance. During this time the areas available for public use are the seasonal Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive, the Mahnomen, Blue Hill, and Oak Savanna Learning Center hiking trails, the St. Francis River canoe route, and fishing access points. Recreational opportunities include wildlife viewing, photography, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, canoeing, fishing, and hunting.

Please visit www.fws.gov/refuge/sherburne for more information.