Even in uncertain times, your Refuge remains open — for wildlife and for you.

Balcones Canyonlands NWR During the Shutdown: What You Need to Know

The government shutdown is affecting national wildlife refuges across the country — and Balcones Canyonlands NWR is no exception. Most Refuge staff have been furloughed, with only the Refuge Manager and the Fire Crew remaining on duty to protect the land. While we don’t yet know when the shutdown will end, we are evaluating and making adjustments each week.
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But here’s the good news: your Refuge is still open.
Public trailheads at Warbler Vista, Doeskin, and Shin Oak remain accessible daily from sunrise to sunset. In times like these, stepping outside for a hike is more important than ever. Take time to Find Your Wild — enjoy the trails, notice the seasonal changes in nature, and remind yourself why this place matters.


✅ What’s Open

  • Public Trailheads — Warbler Vista, Doeskin, and Shin Oak open daily, sunrise to sunset
  • Guided Hikes - Continuing on a case by case basis ( check events page)
  • Lake Travis Brewery Event — Sunday, Oct. 12 at Lago Vista Brewery. $1 from every beer supports Friends of Balcones
  • Find Your Wild 5K Challenge — Download the 5k maps and challenge yourself and friends
  • Find Your Wild Fundraiser — Give today and your donation will be matched up to $1,000 by our Board
  • Scheduled Hunts — Hunts will continue as planned, and hunters will be notified directly with details.


❌ What’s Closed or Suspended

  • Refuge Headquarters — closed until further notice
  • Refuge Roundup (Sat, Oct. 4) — canceled due to the shutdown
  • Trail maintenance — paused until staff return


How You Can Help

Be a good land steward- With no trail maintenance and limited staff- you can help by clean up trash you see or alerting of us of concerning changes to the trails or  conditions. 


October is the beginning of our busiest season, and our Find Your Wild campaign in support of National Wildlife Refuge Week.   With every donation doubled up to $1,000, your gift goes twice as far to:

  • Protect the Refuge
  • Support volunteers
  • Create educational opportunities for youth

Donate Now — Your Impact Doubled


Even during this shutdown, your membership and support ensure that Balcones Canyonlands NWR remains a refuge — for wildlife, and for all of us.


We hope to see you on the trails soon.

friends@friendsofbalcones.org