Numerous mammalian species inhabit the refuge, including: Waterfowl that use the refuge's wetlands include the American black duck, wood duck, green-winged teal and hooded merganser, among others; Canada geese may be seen on East Loring Lake and the Little Madawaska River, upstream from the dam during spring and fall migration.

The refuge's meadows and grassland habitats provide security for the upland sandpiper, bobolink and savannah sparrow.

The refuge contains numerous Cold War era concrete bunkers that reportedly housed early nuclear weapons prior to the closure of the Air Force Base.

Visitors are welcome to use the refuge for recreational activities, such as hiking, bicycling, wildlife photography, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.