Located in central Wyoming in a high plains basin near the headwaters of the “Platte–Kansas Rivers” ecosystem, the Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge lies approximately 47 miles southwest of the city of Casper. Pathfinder Dam construction was completed in 1909, creating the first reservoir on the North Platte River. A
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 970-723-8202 · arapaho@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Pathfinder 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 Pathfinder 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 Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Pathfinder 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
Fremont Canyon Recreation Area (Pathfinder Dam)
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
Steamboat Lake Interpretive Site
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
