The Refuge is found in the Sandhills of north-central Nebraska, as a sanctuary among the Sandhills. The Sandhills region is the largest remaining tract of mixed and tall grass prairie in North America. The Refuge is located 25 miles south of Bassett, Nebraska. Currently, the Refuge is open to several forms of wildlife-
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 402-387-3789 · fortniobrara@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for John W. and Louise Seier 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 John W. and Louise Seier 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 — hiking is one of the listed activities at John W. and Louise Seier National Wildlife Refuge.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — John W. and Louise Seier 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
Calamus Reservoir (Virginia Smith Dam)
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
NPS Photo National Park Service Niobrara National Scenic River
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
