HC 10, Box 145
Rochert, MN 56578
Phone (218)847-2641
Fax (218)847-9141
TDD
EMail jay_m_johnson@fws.gov

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge lies in the glacial lake country of northwestern Minnesota in Becker County, 18 miles northeast of Detroit Lakes. Refuge topography consists of rolling forested hills inter-spersed with lakes, rivers, marshes, and shrub swamps. Twenty-one lakes lie within the refuge. For Information about the Tamarac Wetland Management District, Click Here.

Vegetation is diverse due to the refuge's location in the transition zone between northern hardwood and coniferous forests. Sixty percent of the refuge is forested.

Refuge wildlife is as varied as the habitat with over 245 species of birds and 50 species of mammals. Bald eagles are common, and moose and timber wolves (resident pack) are seen occasionally.

Historically, the refuge was a prized hunting, fishing, ricing, and maple sugaring area for Indian tribes. The northern half of Tamarac lies within the original White Earth Chippewa Indian Reservation Boundary. Tribal members retain wild rice harvest and trapping privileges on the Refuge.

The refuge operates a visitor center complete with a retail sales outlet, auditorium and exhibit area. Wildlife viewing opportunities are superb, particularly along the Blackbird Auto Tour Route. The Old Indian Hiking Trail provides visitors an excellent opportunity to experience refuge woodlands and wetlands. Several lakes provide outstanding fish and hunting opportunities. A cross country ski trail is available for winter visitors. Other facilities available to the public include a picnic area, historic monuments, boat landings and scenic overlooks.