Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge

19502 Iris Road
Little Falls, MN 56345
Phone (320) 632-1575
Fax (320) 632-5471
E-mail r3rw-cmd@fws.gov

Crane Meadows NWR was established in 1992 to preserve a large, natural wetland complex. The refuge is located in central MN and serves as an important stop for many species of migrating birds.

The refuge harbors one of the largest nesting populations of greater sandhill cranes in Minnesota. Unique habitats include native tallgrass prairie, oak savanna, and wetlands with dense stands of wild rice.

The refuge also serves as the base for an aggressive private lands program in Morrison County focusing on the restoration of drained wetlands through voluntary agreements. Acquisition of land for Crane Meadows is continuing as funding is appropriated.

Visitor Opportunities
Recreational opportunities in this area include: wildlife observation, hiking trails.

Accessibility: The National Wildlife Refuge System is working to ensure that facilities and programs are accessible to visitors. Please contact the refuge office for information about accessibility at this unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

This is a new refuge and public facilities are limited. A hiking trail is located at the headquarters complex and provides for wildlife observation opportunities.

Management Programs
This is a new refuge and there is an active acquisition program. Most management activities are directed toward restoration of altered habitats. This refuge is located in the transition zone and includes prairie and oak savannah habitats. Prescribed fire and native prairie restoration are major programs.

Directions
Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is located in Central Minnesota approximately 30 miles north of St. Cloud and 6 miles southeast of Little Falls.

From Little Falls, MN, follow State Highway 10 south approximately 2 miles to County Highway 35 East. Travel approximately 4.5 miles to the Platte River Bridge and, after crossing the bridge, take the second driveway on the left to refuge headquarters.

From St. Cloud, take State Highway 10 north approximately 25 miles to County Highway 35 East. Travel approximately 4.5 miles to the Platte River Bridge and, after crossing the bridge, take the second driveway on the left to refuge headquarters.