The Merced National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 10,258 acres of wetlands, native grasslands, vernal pools, and riparian woodlands. It was established in 1951 under the Lea Act and Migratory Bird Conservation Act to attract wintering waterfowl from neighboring farmland where their foraging activities were causing crop d
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 209-829-3508 · Rich_Albers@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Merced National Wildlife Refuge — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Merced National Wildlife Refuge?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Kestrel Trail, Bittern Marsh Trail, Merced National Wldlife Refuge, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Merced National Wildlife Refuge is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Is hunting allowed?
Yes — hunting is permitted here in season, with the required state license and tags. Check seasons and unit rules.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Often restricted to protect wildlife — many refuges limit or prohibit pets. Check this refuge before you go.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Wildlife Refuge land.
Nearby sites
Hank chapot at English Wikipedia / CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service San Luis National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Grasslands Wildlife Management Area
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
