State Parks and National Parks

Located 25 miles northeast of Poplar Bluff, Mingo National Wildlife Refuge encompasses the largest remaining, unfragmented tract of bottomland-hardwood forest in southeast Missouri. It is a remnant of a forest that once spanned 2.5 million acres across the Missouri Bootheel.

The 21,592-acre refuge offers a haven for many different kinds of wildlife, including deer, turtles, monarch butterflies, otter, wood ducks and more than 250 species of birds.

Bald eagles have successfully nested on the refuge since 1985, and more than 95 species of waterfowl rest and feed here during the annual migration.

The refuge is also home to more than 39 species of mammals, 65 species of amphibians and reptiles and 47 species of fish. Except for occasional closures of roads and specific wildlife areas to protect migratory birds and other wildlife species, the refuge is open to the public during daylight hours throughout the year.

Wildlife observation is one of the most popular activities along miles of waterways, nature trails, and the 19-mile Auto Tour Route. The Auto Tour Route opens seasonally and has several scenic overlooks including spectacular views of the 7,730-acre Mingo Wilderness Area.

Other poplar visitor activities include photography, canoeing, hunting and fishing (in season), and attending special events and environmental education programs.

Fishing is permitted for bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish and other species while hunting and fishing opportunities also occur on the adjoining Duck Creek Wildlife Management Area, a 7,000-acre state-managed area on Mingo’s eastern boundary.

Favorite hikes for visitors on the refuge include a short walk to the historic Sweet’s Cabin, a Depression-era homestead that has been partially restored by the Mingo Swamp Friends.

Visitors also enjoy hikes on the Boardwalk Trail (a highly popular wheelchair-accessible trail leading into the heart of Rockhouse Marsh), and Bluff Trail, which meanders through upland habitat near the Refuge Visitor Center.

Located one mile north of Puxico, the Visitor Center is open weekdays throughout the year and weekends during the spring and fall. A daily entrance fee is charged year-round for entrance onto the refuge. For more specific information, contact the Visitor Center.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Mingo National Wildlife Refuge.