Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
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Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
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Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge protects one of the largest remaining expanses of tidal salt marsh in the mid-Atlantic region. The refuge, located along the coast of Delaware bay, is mostly marsh, but also includes freshwater impoundments and upland habitats that are managed for migratory birds and other wildlife.
Pay your entrance fee on Recreation.gov
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge makes it easy for you to
pay your entrance fee
(or buy an annual pass) before you visit, using
recreation.gov
Image Details
2025 Hunting closure dates are: October 10, November 14, and December 17. All roads and trails will be closed on those dates. The Visitor Center will still be accessible.
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National wildlife refuges offer us all a chance to unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge protects one of the largest remaining expanses of tidal
salt marsh
salt marsh
Salt marshes are found in tidal areas near the coast, where freshwater mixes with saltwater.
Learn more about salt marsh
in the mid-Atlantic region. The refuge, located along the coast of Delaware, is mostly marsh, but also includes freshwater wetlands and upland habitats that are managed for other wildlife.
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Location and Contact Information
2025-26 Hunt Program information
2025 Hunting closure dates are: October 10, November 14, and December 17. All roads and trails will be closed on those dates. The Visitor Center and restrooms will still be accessible.
2025-26 Hunt Program Information
Bombay Hook was established in 1937 as a link in the chain of refuges extending from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. It is primarily a refuge and breeding ground for migrating birds and other wildlife. The value and importance of Bombay Hook for migratory bird protection and conservation has increased through the years, primarily due to the management of the refuge and the loss of high quality habitat along the Atlantic Flyway.
Bombay Hook is a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Portions are also designated a
research natural area
research natural area
The National Wildlife Refuge System contains 210 research natural areas (RNAs) that are part of a nationwide network of ecological areas set aside for both research and education. The areas "contain important ecological and scientific values and are managed for minimum human disturbance.” Recreation activities are allowed, but some RNAs may be closed to the public if incompatible with an individual refuge's primary conversation purposes.
Learn more about research natural area
. The refuge, a nationally recognized birding spot attracting birders from across the country, is designated a Globally Important Bird Area. The Refuge, as well as the entire State of Delaware, is part of the New England/Mid Atlantic Coast Bird Conservation Region Implementation Plan (BCR 30).
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