State Parks and National Parks

Established in 2000, this 4,000-acre refuge on the Upper Mississippi River is an internationally significant corridor for migratory birds and critically important to the recovery of native big river fishes, including the federally endangered Pallid sturgeon.

The refuge provides food, water and protection for migrating and wintering waterfowl and birds, and habitat for fish and wildlife.

The refuge is organized into four divisions: Harlow Island, Meissner Island, Wilkinson Island and Beaver Island. Wildlife observation and photography is excellent throughout the refuge.

Fishing is permitted in the Harlow, Beaver and Wilkinson Island divisions.

Bird hunting with portable blinds is allowed on Wilkinson Island. Upland game hunting is restricted to Harlow Island and Wilkinson Island.

Steel shot must be used on the refuge to hunt upland game (except turkey) and migratory birds.

Foot traffic and bicycles are welcome on the refuge, no motorized vehicles are allowed.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of the Middle Mississippi National Wildlife Refuge.