Located within unit 22A this refuge is truly a unique opportunity in the state. Non residents are allowed to hunt here but often there are only a couple of permits available each year. The entire unit is public land, and there is decent access throughout. Overall there is more water than land in this refuge, and the waterfowl hunting and fishing seems to be the more notable draw to the area, but for folks looking to plan a whitetail hunt, and don’t mind hunting in a smaller condensed area, there is excellent habitat for deer on the various islands and edges of the marsh.

The Refuge encompasses 4,650 acres of wetlands, native tall grass prairie, and bur oak forest that provide a wide variety of nesting habitat for more than 100 species of waterfowl, song birds, and upland game birds, as well as a decent population of deer. Hunters have found success on the big island but access is limited to boat only.

This refuge has an excessive amount of water that creates vast areas that are mostly wetland, marsh and swamp. There are really no standout major terrain features in the unit other than Waubay Lake which takes up a substantial amount of real estate and little to no elevation change.

County Rd 1 going north from State Hwy 12 is your main access point into the Refuge. These two routes will allow the fastest access to the area you are looking to travel to. There are a number of county roads coming off of each of these roads that will take you into any corner of the unit you are wanting to get to. If you would like to hunt one of the Islands within the refuge you should bring some sort of floating vessel to gain access. Note; be aware of poor weather conditions when on the water and always wear a life vest.

The river bottoms and different creek beds have scattered timber including Cottonwood and Bur Oak lining the edges of much of the water system. As you move through the riparian zone you will find a healthy mix of marsh vegetation to include cattails, different prairie grass and wildflowers.

Webster, SD is the most notable town and is located almost in the exact center of unit 22A off of state highway 12. Webster, SD is not a large community, but has fuel, groceries, and locally owned hotels, as well as just about any other supplies or resources you may need if traveling through or planning a stay in this area of the state. If you just need gas, snacks or ice there is a gas station in Waubay off of Hwy 12.