The refuge was established in August of 1915 by Executive Order of President Woodrow Wilson to serve as an inviolate sanctuary, reserve, and breeding ground for native and migratory birds. It is one of the nation’s oldest refuges and is 11,038 acres in size.
Moon and sun in a total eclipse
Solar Eclipse Viewing: Need to Know

Big Lake NWR will experience nearly 90% coverage of the sun during the April 8, 2024 Solar Eclipse event. We encourage those seeking locations for viewing to attend one of the many opportunities nearby.

https://www.arkansas.com/natural-state/eclipse

In order to ensure visitor and wildlife/habitat safety and well-being, please note the following:

  • Though the refuge is densely forested, you may view the eclipse from any designated parking areas.
  • Please stay in designated parking areas and on designated trails. Do not go beyond locked gates or past Area Closed signs.
  • All motor vehicles are restricted to normal passenger vehicle roads. Blocking gates, boat ramps or roadways with any vehicles is prohibited.
  • If a parking area is full, please move on to another area in order to avoid overcrowding.
  • The consumption of alcohol in parking lots and on roadways is prohibited.
  • There is no camping on the refuge.  
  • The Youth (Modern Gun) Turkey Hunt will occur refuge-wide on April 6-7, 2024. Wildlife Drive Auto Drive is closed to everyone except Youth Turkey Permit holders on April 6-7, 2024. It is recommended that all Refuge users wear applicable hunter orange while on the Refuge during the gun hunts.

Our Public Use Regulation Brochure provides a comprehensive list of Refuge Regulations. 

Location and Contact Information

      About Us

      Once a free-flowing river system, the New Madrid earthquakes of 1811-12 changed the river into the lake and swamp environment that exists today. Due to the refuge’s location, significant bottomland forest habitat, and abundance of bird life, it was recognized as a globally Important Bird Area by the American Bird Conservancy in March of 2001. 

      Our Species

      The refuge annually winters several species of waterfowl. Peak numbers in January and February can exceed 200,000 birds. Wood ducks are year-round residents and annually raise approximately 2,500 young on the refuge. Over 225 bird species have been documented on the refuge. Other wildlife to look for are beavers, river otters, raccoons, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, bobcats, and the occasional armadillo.

      Our Library

      Publications, Brochures, Plans, and more...