Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge

The American bittern is one of 287 species of birds seen at the refuge.

A moose and her calf.

The Franklin's gull, and many other birds, can be seen at this Globally Important Bird Area.

Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge lies within the glacial boundaries of Lake Agassiz. The 61,500 acres are located in the aspen parkland region of northwestern Minnesota. This region is a transition zone between coniferous forest, tall-grass prairie and the prairie pothole region of the United States.

The refuge is home to 287 species of birds, 49 species of mammals and other wildlife species, including moose, timber wolves, river otters, white-tailed deer and nesting ducks.

Agassiz is one of the best 50 sites in the United States to observe wildlife, and one of the best 100 sites in North America to observe birds. It has been recognized as a Globally Important Bird Area.

Primitive campsites are available at adjacent state wildlife management areas. Snowmobiling, upland game, archery deer hunting and waterfowl hunting are also allowed on adjacent public lands, but not on the refuge.

Biking is only permitted on the gravel Lost Bay Habitat Drive, which is open from May through October.

Hiking is permitted on Maakstad, Headquarters and Rodohl trails, which are also open from May through October.

The office is open Sunday afternoons from 1 to 5 p.m. in June only.

From Minn. Hwy. 32, the refuge is located 11 miles east on (Marshall) County Road 7.