Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge
Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for wildlife and boasts unique geological features. The mighty force of the Dungeness River combined with unique feeder bluffs have created the amazing Dungeness Spit, one of the world's longest sand spits, measuring over five miles in length! The graceful arc of Dungeness Spit protects nutrient-rich tidal flats for migrating shorebirds; a quiet bay with calm waters for wintering waterfowl; an isolated beach for harbor seals and their pups; and abundant eelgrass beds for young salmon and steelhead nurseries.
Recognizing the importance of the fertile habitats, President Woodrow Wilson established the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge in 1915 to preserve breeding grounds for native birds. Today, the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge is co-managed by the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe. The Refuge and the surrounding lands and waters lie within the traditional homelands of the Tribe and hold important cultural and historical significance.
The Refuge and the Spit are open year-round to visitors, although access may be limited to designated areas during seasonal closures. Visitors can enjoy a short 0.5 mile walk from the parking areas to scenic overlooks, continue onto the Spit, and even visit the lighthouse. The New Dungeness Light Station is located within the Refuge and can be accessed by walking approximately five miles along the Spit.
Please Note: Visitors should consult tide tables and weather before travelling down the Spit.
Please respect any closure signs and Refuge rules and regulations to help protect these essential habitats for generations to come.
$3 Day Use Pass- covers entry for 4 visitors aged 16 and older. Children aged 15 or younger are permitted free entry
$12 Annual Refuge Pass- covers entry to only Dungeness NWR for passholder and 3 other adult visitors for 12 months from date of purchase.
All 'America the Beautiful' passes are accepted.
This pass is only valid for entrance fees at Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge.
All refuge visitors are required to pay an entrance fee except entrance fees are waived if the visitor is in possession of a current and signed Federal Duck Stamp or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass.
This pass admits the passholder and 3 other adults (age 16 and up).
Children aged 15 or younger are permitted free entry.
Please be prepared to show your hard copy pass or digital pass on your mobile device when you walk to Dungeness Spit.
Print out or download the pass on your mobile device in advance of your visit as cellular service may be limited.
Refuge hours: The Refuge is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Current closure times will be posted at the entrance.
Passes are non-transferable, non-refundable, not replaceable if lost or stolen, and are void if altered or reproduced.