Operations Update

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is following federal, state, and local public health authority guidance to implement a phased approach to increase public access to Mingo National Wildlife Refuge. Based on this guidance and in accordance with the White House and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Mingo National Wildlife Refuge is beginning to safely increase access. Regardless of vaccination status, face masks are mandated on federal lands in buildings and in crowded outdoor areas. As of 8/26/2021, access to Mingo National Wildlife Refuge is as follows:

Open:

• All refuge lands including trails (½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset)
• Swampwalk Nature Trail loop (Bridge at Ditch 11 is closed)
• Roads including Ozark Highlands Auto Tour, Bluff Road, Red Mill Drive, and Flatbanks Road
• Portable toilets in visitor center parking lot
• Pit toilets located around the refuge

Closed: 

• Visitor Center and attached restrooms
• Fee collection is currently waived for all refuge activities
• Trash cans are unavailable – please pack out your trash and Leave No Trace

We are excited to welcome you back but do ask that you follow current CDC safe practices by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups; washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick. Staff are working to maintain clean, safe, and healthy facilities in accordance with federal, state and local guidance.

Please visit this site for updates. We look forward to seeing you soon!

CDC Guidance for Recreating in Outdoor Spaces
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Please call the office at 573-222-3589 between 8:30-4:00 Monday-Friday with questions.  

Updated 8/25/21