Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge

Hunting is available at more than 400 units of the National Wildlife Refuge System (national wildlife refuges and wetland management districts) and almost 20 national fish hatcheries. Hunting can be a habitat management tool to keep wildlife populations in check. Hunters' purchase of Duck Stamps helps buy conservation lands and is one of several ways hunters support conservation. All hunters must possess valid state hunting licenses. Be sure to also check regulations for each state and FWS location when planning your hunt.

Fishing is available at 378 units (343 national wildlife refuges and 35 wetland management districts) of the National Wildlife Refuge System, almost 20 national fish hatcheries and other U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands and waters. Virtually every type of sport fishing is represented. Anglers must follow state and federal regulations. Check individual sites for season dates and size, day and possession limits.

From bald eagles to spoonbills, from condors to puffins, birds abound on national wildlife refuges. Refuges provide places for birds to nest, rest, feed and breed making them world-renown for their birding opportunities.

Auto tour routes offer a great all-season way to see wildlife and habitats from the comfort of your car. By using your car as a viewing blind, you can often see more wildlife than you can see on foot.

Archery demonstrations and lessons may be a part of local site programming. Some refuges and hatcheries permit bow-hunting with other hunting. This activity is typically limited. Check locally for how to apply.

Boats provide the best way to see many refuges. Some refuges limit the use of motorboats to certain areas, subject to restrictions on engine size.

Canoeing and Kayaking

Looking for a place to paddle?  Reelfoot Lake offers a variety of places to canoe and kayak that offers open water, shallow water with an array of blooming vegetation, narrow trails, wide ditches, flooded forests, etc.  While we only have a few "established" trails...

Field Trips

 

Are you interested in an educational, fun and free field trip?  Send an email to Tara Dowdy to set up your field trip today!  All ages and grades are welcome.  Once your date, time, and educational program preference is determined, you will recieve a...

The Refuge System offers hundreds of miles of refreshing trails and boardwalks. Whether you want a short, easy walk or a challenging hike, you’re likely to find what you want. Some trails are paved and universally accessible. Some trails include displays on visual arts, local history and culture or environmental education.

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.

A few sites allow picnicking at designated areas.

Painting and sketching in nature is possible at nearly all sites open to the public. Sometimes, sites host public displays of artworks created on the refuge.