Spring Migration Happenings at Ottawa Refuge

Spring migration events at the refuge this year will be following a hybrid model, partially online and partially socially-distanced on the refuge grounds.

So, what can I do at Ottawa Refuge this spring?
  • The Visitor Center operations are suspended until further notice
  • Refuge hiking trails are open
  • The Wildlife Drive will be open on select dates
  • Caravan Tours will be offered
  • Educational Programs will be offered online
  • Restrooms may be found near the Visitor Center, Trail Head Parking Lot, and at the mid-point of the Wildlife Drive
​Puddles the Blue Goose Safety Tips

Please visit responsibly!
  • Wear a mask
  • Social distance (6ft minimum) from other visitors
  • Download brochures in advance

Shopping

Looking forward to shopping? Our physical store remains closed. Purchase online and schedule a curbside pickup.

Swarovski Optik Info Booth

Demonstrations & simple repairs

May 10-25, 2021 near the Visitor Center

Food Trucks

Rookery Nature Store
May 1-10 Traveling Chef 
May 8-9 Port Clinton Rotary Fish Wagon
May 15-16 Xtreme Cuisine, Port Clinton Rotary Fish Wagon
The outdoor Rookery Nature Store will be available in front of the Refuge Visitor Center from 10AM-4PM Friday-Sunday April 30, 2021- May 16, 2021, weather permitting.

You may also shop online for the full selection and schedule a curbside pickup!

Pollinator Plant Sale

Starting May 1 until sell-out, visit

​Bench Farms 
9151 Jerusalem Rd
Curtice, OH 43412

Wildlife Drive

April 17-18 and 30
May 1-16; 22-23; 29-31 
June every Saturday and Sunday

Guided Caravan Tour Info

On select days in May, join Refuge Manager Jason Lewis for a Guided Caravan Tour of Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge, the largest contiguous marsh on Lake Erie. Travel in your own vehicle as Jason guides you through this federally managed birding hotspot, with periodic stops to view marsh, lake, and wooded areas for spring migrants. These will be the only opportunities to visit this refuge this spring as there will be no bus tours. Travel will be on gravel and grass roads so cars with a very low clearance are not recommended. 

Tours are limited to 6 vehicles (up to 19 participants per tour). Masks and social distancing are required. There will be no shared scopes or other equipment on this tour.  Attendees will meet at the Yondota Road entrance to the Cedar Point NWR.
Friday, May 7, 2021: 9am - 12:30pm at Cedar Point NWR

Thursday, May 13, 2021: 9am - 12:30pm at Cedar Point NWR

Friday, May 14, 2021: 9am - 12:30pm at Cedar Point NWR

Wednesday, May 19, 2021: 9am - 12:30pm at Cedar Point NWR

Educational Programs

We have lots of interesting programs planned for you! View the schedule and sign up today.