Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge

The refuge is located four miles west of the Mississippi River in Crittenden County and is protected from the river by the river levee.

The refuge literally stands as a wildlife oasis in an agricultural sea. An excellent diversity of habitat exists comprised of mainly agricultural land, bottomland, hardwood forest, upland forest, open water and flooded cypress/willow swamp.

Thirty small field impoundments have been developed for waterfowl in the agricultural land. Because of its strategic location in the heart of the Mississippi Flyway and the diverse habitat, the refuge is a prime wintering area for migratory waterfowl and a major stopping place for migrating warblers.

Bald eagles, great blue herons, great egrets and anhingas have taken up nesting on the refuge.

Due to increasing nutrient loads, the lake's fisheries have declined from historical levels, but they are still a major attraction to this area.

Opportunities for Public Use: Wildlife observation along nature drive and observation platform; fishing March 15-Sept. 30; small game hunting Oct. 1-Nov 15.

Directions to Refuge: Take Exit 21 off Interstate 55 onto Highway 42 east 1.5 miles.

Endangered and Threatened Species on the Refuge: Nesting bald eagles.

Other Wildlife Species: Waterfowl, neotropical migrants, marsh and water birds, reptiles, otter, deer, beaver, bobcat.

Habitat Description: Mixture of Lake, Cypress swamp, bottomland forest, upland forest, grassland and cropland.

Focus Activities: Early May warbler migration. Feb.-May bald eagle nesting activities.

P.O. Box 279
Turrell, AR 72384
Phone: 870-343-2595
Email: r4rw_ar.bgl@fws.gov