Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge

ATTENTION:  The refuge is considering modifying access to Big Bend Road from vehicles to ATVs only and creating a parking area. This change modifies seasonal vehicle access along a two-mile stretch of Big Bend Road to prevent ongoing habitat degradation and infrastructure damage. The transition is primarily driven by the need to protect the roadbed, often submerged most of the year and highly susceptible to severe rutting and erosion from truck traffic. By implementing these restrictions, the Service intends to enhance public safety and resource protection while successfully maintaining access for hunters in a more sustainable manner. We anticipate the change to occur Fall/Winter 2026/2027. Please send comments or questions to email "centralla@fws.gov" or reach out to Refuge Project Leader Brett Wehrle @ 318-305-0640.