Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we encourage you to:

  • Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information
  • Follow current CDC safe practices by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick


Features

  • Bison 12-1

    American Bison

    Enjoy views of North America's largest existing mammal, the bison. The refuge's herd includes approximately 650 of these herbivores.

    Learn More

  • Dr Chiri guides

    New Field Guides

    Dr. Angel Chiri has created and donated free field guides covering a small sample of the bugs and spiders of the Wichita Mountains area.

    Learn more

  • Geolog 218X116

    Geology

    The refuge's rugged landscape is the result of over half a billion years of geologic change and adaptation.

    Rugged ranges

News

Campground Re-opening

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is re-opening the Narrows, the Charon’s Garden Wilderness Area, and Doris Campground effective July 24 to the public. Acting out of an abundance of caution, the Refuge suspended these areas in March and April. While these areas are re-opening, public restrooms, shower houses, Refuge buildings and offices will remain closed.

Learn more

Hiking Restrictions Lifted

July 20, 2020

While these restrictions have been lifted, additional hot weather and/or increasing search and rescue operations due to heat may again require restrictions. Hot weather conditions, coupled with the rocky and rugged terrain of the Refuge, poses extreme risk to visitors, Refuge staff, and emergency response personnel who may be called upon for search and rescue operations during the extreme heat.

Hiking in the heat

Mount Scott Roadway is Open

Our visitors are super excited about the re-opening of Mount Scott! We want to make sure you have the correct information. The Mount Scott Roadway is a shared resource, open to the public from sunrise until sunset. User groups are regulated Friday-Sunday.

Learn more
Featured Stories

Wilderness on Wichita Mountains WR

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Did you know Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge includes 8,570 acres of designated wilderness?

Learn more here

Featured Stories

Volunteer Experiences

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There are many opportunities to volunteer on the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. An amazing experience you won't soon forget!

Making a difference for wildlife...

About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

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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
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