Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1962. The name Cross Creeks refers to the intersection of the North and South Cross Creeks intersection on the refuge at its midpoint.
Deer hunter with harvested doe
2023-2024 Refuge Hunt/Fish Regulations Now Available

Fishing opportunities abound on Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge, especially in the summertime. However, even though we have begun the "dog days" of summer, hunters are already gearing up and getting ready for the fall hunting season.  To find out more information about the refuge's hunting and fishing opportunities, including a map see the 2023-2024 Cross Creeks Hunting and Fishing Regulations.

Visit Us

If you enjoy getting outdoors consider a visit to Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge!  From hunting and fishing, to wildlife watching, kayaking and photography, refuge visitors can find it here. 

Location and Contact Information

      About Us

      Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge lies within the floodplain of the Cumberland River, which is now Barkley Lake. The refuge was established as a result of mitigation proceedings with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers when portion of the Kentucky Woodlands NWR was inundated with the creation of the Lake Barkley Project.

      What We Do

      Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge consists of rich bottomlands surrounded by rolling, heavily forested hills, and rocky, limestone bluffs. Deciduous woodlands characterize the surrounding hillsides, while the bottomlands primarily consist of open water impoundments and cultivated fields. The types of habitats found on the refuge are cropland, moist-soil vegetation, forested uplands, isolated bottomland hardwoods, and open water habitats. The diversity of aquatic and terrestrial habitats enables many wildlife species to make the refuge their home either during the entire year, during the winter months as many waterfowl do, or during temporary stopovers as do some migratory songbirds.

      Our Species

      Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge provides wintering habitat and protection for large numbers of waterfowl including 30 different species. However, the wide diversity of habitats enables a host of wildlife to make this refuge their home either seasonally or throughout the entire year.  

      Our Library

      The refuge virtual library is a collection of documents and brochures for all your reading needs.