Facility Activities

Whether you are a birder, a hunter, or just want to enjoy time in nature there are opportunities at Marais des Cygnes.  The bottomland hardwood forests that are the the reason for the Refuge's establishment play host to numerous species of birds, some of which are not common in other parts of the state.  Prothonotary warblers nest here in the summer and numerous species of warblers pass through in the spring and fall.  Red-headed woodpeckers are a common sight and often heard on the Refuge.  Numerous small ponds throughout the Refuge provide habitat and also a place to cast a line but also places to observe birds, look for the tracks of animals that have come to drink or hunt, or listen for frog calls.  There are trails through the woods that allow a chance to explore more of the heart of the Refuge.  During certain times of the year there are opportunities for hunting white-tailed deer and turkeys with a required special permit.  From spring through fall the prairie areas are busy with pollinators and birds and perhaps if you are lucky the chance to see our state reptile, a box turtle.  Coming summer of 2022 a new paved ADA accessible Nature Trail will be available at the Headquarters area giving visitors the chance to explore a little bit of what the Refuge has to offer.

Hunting

The largest bottomland hardwood forest in Kansas is home to thriving populations of game, including deer, turkey, squirrel, rabbit and bobwhite quail. Waterfowl hunting is generally limited to small farm ponds, mine ponds and the Marais des Cygnes River. However, during floods as many as 2,000...

Fishing

Fishing season is in accordance with state regulations. The primary fishing opportunities include the farm ponds and old mine pits containing bluegill, crappie and smallmouth bass, and the Marais des Cygnes River for channel catfish, flathead catfish and walleye. Access to the pits and ponds is...

Boating - non-motorized

Non-motorized boats are permitted on all portions of the Marais des Cygnes River within the Refuge.  However access to the River is limited the launch point is on the Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Area and the takeout is a non-maintained area at the Stateline Bridge.  Check water...

Hiking

Hiking is a wonderful opportunity to see the more hidden portions of the Refuge.  However, it is important to be aware of some of the hazards especially chiggers and ticks.  From April through September there is a high probability of encountering both creatures. Use insect...

Birding

Birding is especially good in late spring when over 30 species of warblers migrate through the area and in early summer when breeding birds are defending territories. The large diversity of plant communities including large tracts of forest, grassland, brushland, open and wooded wetlands, and...

Photography
Whether you wield a smartphone or a zoom lens, you’ll find photo-worthy subjects at national wildlife refuges and national fish hatcheries. Wildlife photography is a priority public use on national wildlife refuges, so you’ll find wildlife drives and blinds and overlooks to help you get the images you’re after.