Elmer's Island Wildlife Refuge

Elmer's Island Wildlife Refuge on one of Louisiana's barrier islands may be small, but it offers a range of recreational opportunities for visitors.

At just under 1,150 acres, the refuge is accessed by a quick turn onto a dirt road from LA Highway 1. The single road passes oil pipeline access points before entering the refuge at a gate announcing refuge's operating hours from sunrise until sunset daily.

Two primary popular uses of Elmer's Island refuge are fishing and the beach. Cars park along the edge of the gravel road and fish from the banks. Those who drive to the end of the road will find the beach. Cars must park and visitors must walk over natural and restored dunes to get to the water. Birding is also a popular activity, especially during migratory times.

No glass drinking containers are permitted on the refuge. Anyone fishing over the age of 16 needs a valid permit. There are no amenities of any kind located on the wildlife refuge.