Features

  • Repaired VC Access Road

    DeSoto Reopens after Flooding

    DeSoto Refuge and Visitor Center Reopened. Some sections of refuge remain closed due to flooding and flood damage.

  • Hunting Muzzleloader DeSoto

    Proposed Changes to Hunt Plan

    DeSoto and Boyer Chute are proposing to update their hunting program and are seeking public comment on the changes

    To access documents and learn more...

  • Catapillar on Milkweed

    Mmmm, Milkweed!

    Keep an eye out for emerging milkweed. This is the only plant monarch caterpillars will eat, so consider this while planning your garden!

    Milkweed Seed Finder

  • FWS Journal

    DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge News

    See the latest activities, events and conservation work at DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge.

    Learn More

  • Facebook

    Follow DeSoto on Facebook

    Keep up to date with the latest wildlife sighting, news and events through our Facebook page.

    Follow DeSoto on Facebook Here

News

Refuge Open with Some Limitations

Handicap Dock Flooded

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, including the visitor Center, has reopened to public use with some limited access. All boat ramps remain closed. Access to the Refuge is via Hwy 30 only. South Gate Entrance remains closed. Some hiking trails remain partially flooded. The East gravel road is closed to vehicles, but foot traffic is permitted. The Missouri River Pullout is Closed. Areas will reopen as conditions improve.

Refuge Activities

Wetland Discovery

The refuge visitor center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To learn about upcoming events and activities on the refuge click on the link below.

Event Calendar March through May

America the Beautiful Passes

Interagency Senior Pass

Senior Lifetime, Senior Annual, Interagency Annual, Military, Disabled Access Passes, and Every Kid in a Park (4th Grade) passes, along with the Federal Duck Stamp and Refuge Specific Passes, are available at the DeSoto Visitor Center.

More Information
Steamboat Bertrand Museum

Steamboat Bertrand Museum

Bertrand Steamboat Museum

The DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge visitor center features the Steamboat Bertrand Museum. This museum houses over 250,000 artifacts excavated from the buried wreck of the Steamboat Bertrand

Learn More

About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

NWRS Logo

The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants.

Learn more about the NWRS
Follow NWRS Online