The FWS is seeking public review and comment on the proposed opening or expansion of hunting and/or fishing. The public is invited to review the draft documents, including draft plan(s), compatibility determination(s) as appropriate, and environmental compliance documentation. The draft documents are available through the Federal Register docket number: FWS–HQ–NWRS–2026–1223.
The comment period on the proposed hunting and sport fishing regulations across Service-managed lands and waters will stay open for 30-days from May 27 through June 26, 2026. Please submit your comments directly through the Federal Register.
The comment period on the Environmental Assessment for actions at this field station will stay open for 30 days from May 27 through June 27, 2026. Please submit your comments via email to [email protected] with the name of the refuge or hatchery in the subject line.
Visit Us
Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge is a prairie gem, containing one of the largest publicly owned tracts of northern mixed grass prairie in the United States. The Refuge maintains a Globally Important Bird Area designation by the American Bird Conservancy and Audubon Society. Congress set aside a 5,577 acre wilderness area wilderness area
Wilderness areas are places untamed by humans. The Wilderness Act of 1964 allows Congress to designate wilderness areas for protection to ensure that America's pristine wild lands will not disappear. Wilderness areas can be part of national wildlife refuges, national parks, national forests or public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
Learn more about wilderness area within the Refuge in 1975, to protect a representative sample of northern mixed grass prairie in the Missouri Coteau. The Refuge provides important habitat for migratory birds as a breeding ground and stopping point along their great migration and provides habitat for a wide variety of native, resident species.
Activities
Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of wildlife dependent recreational opportunities including: hunting, birdwatching, wildlife observation, hiking, and photography. Please ask the Refuge staff for information regarding specific plant or animal species.
Trails
The Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge maintains the Prairie hiking trail, a 7.5-mile loop which has been designated as a national scenic trail. The trail is open May 1st until Grouse season opener. Contact refuge office for specific dates.
Prairie Hiking Trail
- The trail traverses rolling hills and lush wetlands, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the Prairie Pothole Region.
- Easy to moderate hiking
- Gravel and two-track grass surfaces
- The trail can be accessed along the west side of the auto tour route