The Lake Wales Ridge National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1993 as the first refuge designated for the recovery of endangered and threatened plants. The refuge contains 23 listed plants, at least four listed animals, and more than 40 endemic invertebrates. It is part of a network of scrub preserves owned by the s
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 321-861-5601 · lakewalesridge@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Lake Wales Ridge 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 Lake Wales Ridge 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 Lake Wales Ridge 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 Hartt Road. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Lake Wales Ridge National Wildlife Refuge is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
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
NASA / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Lake Okeechobee
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
Caloosahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
