About Seney National Wildlife Refuge
Seney National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1935 as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife. The wild land that today is the refuge has not always appeared so wild. This is a land that was once heavily logged, burned, ditched, drained and cultivated. Despite repeated attempts, the soils and harsh conditions of this country would not provide a hospitable environment for sustained settlement and agriculture. So, nature claimed it once again. What was viewed as a loss by early 20th century entrepreneurs became a huge gain for the wildlife, natural resources and the people of Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula.Seney National Wildlife Refuge is in the east-central portion of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, halfway between Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. The 95,238-acre refuge encompasses the 25,150-acre Seney Wilderness Area, which contains the Strangmoor Bog National Natural Landmark.The Whitefish Point Unit of the Seney National Wildlife Refuge is located nearly 80 miles away from the headquarters. This 53-acre tract is renowned for its concentrations of birds during migration. Each year thousands of raptors, passerines and waterbirds funnel through the point, stopping here to replenish energy reserves before or after venturing across Lake Superior. The area is recognized as a Globally Important Bird Area for birds migrating between the US and Canada.
How to Get There
From Germfask head south on Highway M-77 about 2 miles and turn right (west) on River Road (436) quarters. The visitor center is 2 miles down on the north side of the road.From Blaney Park head north on M-77 to River Road (436) 7 miles. Turn left (west) on River Road. The visitor center is 2 miles down on the north side of the road.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Seney National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Seney National Wildlife Refuge? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Seney National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Seney National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1608) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Seney National Wildlife Refuge?
From Germfask head south on Highway M-77 about 2 miles and turn right (west) on River Road (436) quarters. The visitor center is 2 miles down on the north side of the road.From Blaney Park head north on M-77 to River Road (436) 7 miles. Turn left (west) on River Road. The visitor center is 2 miles down on the north side of the road.
How do I contact Seney National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 906-586-9851 or email: seney@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
