Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Regulations, Hours of Operation and Permits
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is open to public use year round. Though remote and inaccessible, the refuge offers a challenge to the adventurous outdoor enthusiast who chooses to venture there. Birders, photographers and lovers of the outdoors find the refuge intriguing, but difficult in which to maneuver. Roadways are open to the public, whether walking or driving, although they are impassable during wet weather.
Hunting and fishing are popular activities on Alligator River Refuge. Hunting is allowed on most of the refuge during State seasons and in accordance with State regulations. A permit is required to hunt on the refuge. While white-tail deer is the main species hunted, a variety of small game are also hunted such as squirrels, rabbits, quail and mourning doves. A current hunt brochure (Adobe Acrobat PDF file [200K]) will provide the necessary permit and up-to-date information about the hunting program. Fishing is also allowed on the refuge in accordance wtih State regulations.
All local, State and Federal regulations apply on the Refuge. Specific Refuge regulations are addressed in Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations. In addition you are reminded of the following:
The Refuge is open daylight hours only
Hunting is by permit only
Fishing is allowed according to State seasons and regulations
Firearms are prohibited unless they are unloaded and dismantled or encased
Taking or collecting any plants or animals is prohibited, except as specifically authorized
Feeding wildlife is prohibited
Dogs must be leashed
Camping, fires, littering, target practice and commercial guiding is prohibited
Wood gathering is by special permit only
The farming area is closed to all public entry, except during September and October