The first recorded western contact at Kingman Reef was by an American seaman, Captain Fanning, in 1798, but was named after Captain Kingman, who visited in 1853. The United States annexed the reef in 1922, and in 1934 delegated jurisdiction to the Department of the Navy. Its sheltered lagoon served as a way station and
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 808-792-9560 · Pacific_Reefs@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Kingman Reef 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 Kingman Reef National Wildlife Refuge?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Kingman Reef National Wildlife Refuge is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
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
Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
NASA / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Jarvis Island National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
