Kirwin
Kirwin, KS 67644-3505
Plan Your Visit
There are many of fun, interesting, and educational things you can do on the refuge. Keep in mind, if an activity is not wildlife related and doesn’t help in the protection or understanding of wildlife or their habitat, there are probably refuge rules governing this activity. Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to see prairie wildlife. Early morning or just before sunset are the best times to observe wildlife.
Some things you might want to bring with you on your visit are:
- Binoculars for viewing wildlife.
- Sunscreen
- Water
- Insect repellant
- Snacks or food to enjoy at our picnic areas.
- Trash bag to pack out your trash. (No trash bins available. Pack out what you pack in, leave no trace.)
Weather can change quickly on the prairie. Spring and fall temperatures may be hot or cold, or both in a single day. Best to bring jackets or layer your clothing to adjust to the temperatures. Winter can be extremely cold. Summers may be hot with high humidity. Make sure to dress appropriately for the season.
Activities
More Activities
Featured Species
Get Involved
Whether you want to support conservation, learn more about nature or share your love of the outdoors, you’ve come to the right place. National wildlife refuges provide many opportunities for you to help your community by doing what you love. National wildlife refuges partner with volunteers, youth groups, landowners, neighbors, and residents of urban and coastal communities to make a lasting difference.
Seasonal Boat Closure - October 1, 2026 to April 1, 2027
Due to the current reservoir elevation (1,704.22 feet), a seasonal boat closure is in effect from October 1, 2026 to April 1, 2027, to minimize disturbance to resting waterfowl. Boat fishing is prohibited during this closure; however, shore fishing remains permitted throughout Kirwin Reservoir.
For details, please refer to the applicable Code of Federal Regulations (Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge, Sport fishing).
To view the daily pool elevation for Kirwin Reservoir, visit Current Reservoir Data.
Services
About
Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1954, was the first national wildlife refuge in Kansas. It is an overlay project on a U.S. Bureau of Reclamation irrigation and flood control reservoir covering 10,778 acres of prairie grasslands, open water, and wetlands. The refuge serves as a vital stop for migrating birds along the Central Flyway and is home to a diversity of wildlife, grasses, and wildflowers. Staff manage the area's habitats to conserve wildlife resources with a primary emphasis on migratory birds.