If you are coming on your own to the refuge, but want something to engage with while you are here, you can find self-guided activities for a variety of ages, below or in the Refuge’s Administration Building front office. These can be used individually, with families, or groups you are bringing to the refuge.
If you are bringing a larger group, please email RidgefieldEducation@fws.gov so they know you will be on-site!
Created by Portland based artist and educator Laura Devito, this story book and accompanying curriculum introduces students to the plants and animals at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge by following the misadventures of Alex, a young student who has come out to the Refuge for a field trip. The book and curriculum can be used together on your field trip, or the book can be used as an in classroom activity before visiting the Refuge.
The Dusky Duffel backpacks contain binoculars, field guide identification books, equipment, and lesson exercises that may be conducted in the field. These can be checked out by teachers, scout groups, or other groups wanting to explore the refuge on their own. Other publications are usually available at no cost and include posters, coloring books, informational brochures, and flyers. These can be reserved by calling the Refuge office or emailing Ridgefieldeducation@fws.gov .
Please review this page for site and trail information.
Both Ridgefield and Steigerwald Lake have bathrooms by the parking areas, but not deeper in the refuge except halfway through the auto tour route. Plan to use the bathroom before coming or as you arrive.
There are not clear designated spots for lunch on either refuge.
Education groups can be provided with spots where there is plenty of room on the ground to sit. This has some flexibility and can be adjusted the day of as need arises. Tarps, pop-up tents, and tables can be provided by the refuge in case of rain or individual needs.
All trash you pack in, pack back out!
If you are planning to do a walking tour at Ridgefield NWR, this is the address for the Carty Unit where the visit will begin: 28908 NW Main Ave. Ridgefield, WA 98642
If you are taking a drive around the auto tour route at Ridgefield NWR, this is the address for the River S unit: 1071 S Hillhurst Rd. Ridgefield, WA 98642
If you have a visit at Steigerwald Lake NWR, this is the address for the trailhead where the visit will begin: 34301 Lewis and Clark Hwy, Washougal, WA 98671
Both sites have parking for buses and individual cars. Ridgefield has plenty of parking for individual cars in two parking lots shared with the public. Steigerwald Lake has a smaller parking lot that is also shared with the public, so carpooling is encouraged.
Dress for the occasion! Make sure students are wearing clothes comfortable for the outdoors, taking the weather into account (rain jackets for rainy weather, coats for colder weather, light clothes for the heat)
During the summer, make sure students bring water and sunscreen so they can properly enjoy the refuge without concern.
During the warmer months, your group should be aware of ticks and mosquitos and take proper precautions.
Tick/Mosquito Precautions: Wear long sleeves and long pants. Lightweight material will keep them cooler and lighter colors will make ticks more visible. Use an EPA-registered insect repellent.
More from the CDC on preventing tick bites . More from the CDC on mosquitoes.
Any pre-registered educational group will have their parking fee waived for all participants and vehicles. If you have questions about qualification, contact refuge staff.
There is no place to wash hands on site or to provide water to large groups. Make sure your group has hand sanitizer and drinking water.
Access to main trails on the refuge is wheelchair accessible. Translation services can be provided with a two-week ahead of time notice to give us time to coordinate translators. The Refuge is happy to troubleshoot or discuss any accommodations you may need to come to the site. We want everyone to be able enjoy the refuge, so please contact refuge staff so they can help!
If any of your questions remain unanswered, please feel free to contact RidgefieldEducation@fws.gov or 360-887-4106.
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