Facility Activities
Things to Do
If you have 15 minutes....
- Stop by the Refuge Headquarters office for some information and grab an English or Spanish trails brochure. Take a look at the outdoor bird feeders to get an up-close view of the Red-winged blackbirds, Acorn woodpeckers, sparrows, finches, Western Gray Squirrel and more! In the Winter enjoy the view of the seasonal pond behind the Headquarters office to see Wood ducks, a flock of dusky Canada goose, Ring-necked ducks, and other waterfowl.
If you have one hour....
- Go on a hike or go birding! William L. Finley has over 12 miles of trails and is one of the most popular locations for birders to see migratory birds, especially in the Spring and Winter.
If you have half a day or more....
- Drive the auto tour route through the different native habitats on the Refuge and explore the additional trails. You can access the auto tour from Finley Refuge Road or Bruce Road, see the map to plan your adventure!
Know Before You Go
Prepare for your visit by packing supplies in a bag. The following suggested items will keep you comfortable and safe when you’re outside:
- Jacket
- Full water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Closed-toe shoes
- Cell phone
You might also want:
- Backpack
- Bug spray
- Personal medications
- Binoculars
- Portable first aid kit
- Sunglasses
William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge provides a plethora of different public use activities. From hiking to nature photography, there is plenty to do, and just off Highway 99 too!
Wildlife Viewing
If you enjoy getting outdoors and looking for wildlife, consider a visit to your nearest national wildlife refuge national wildlife refuge
A national wildlife refuge is typically a contiguous area of land and water managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service� for the conservation and, where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.
Learn more about national wildlife refuge ! At Ankeny wildlife viewing opportunities range from the stately great blue heron, to chittering western gray squirrels and kreck-ek-ing pacific chorus frogs.
Interpretation
For interpretive experiences at William L. Finley NWR, check out the Headquarters Office, the Homer Campbell Observation Blind Kiosk, or the Woodpecker Loop Environmental Education trail.
Recreational Opportunities
With the passage of the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act in 1997, six wildlife-dependent recreational activities are often managed on refuges as long as they are determined to be compatible, legitimate and appropriate public uses of the refuge. Hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, photography, environmental education, and interpretation are often referred to as the "big six". William L. Finley offers five of the big six, including environmental education and interpretation programs, great wildlife viewing and photography opportunities, and limited annual hunts for elk and deer.