Driftless Area National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1989 under the authority of the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Two federally listed endangered species, the Iowa Pleistocene snail and northern monkshood, are found on the refuge. Located in northeast Iowa, the 1,238 acre refuge includes units that range in si
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 563-873-3423 · driftless@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Driftless Area 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 Driftless Area National Wildlife Refuge?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Driftless Area National Wildlife Refuge. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Trail to Marching Bear Group of Effigy Mounds, 6th Street Pedestrian Path, Walking Biking Path, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Driftless Area 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
NPS Photo National Park Service Effigy Mounds National Monument
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Mississippi River - Pool 9
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.