About Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge
The Lower Hatchie NWR was established in 1980. The purpose for which the Lower Hatchie Refuge was established is “... for use as an inviolate sanctuary, or for any other management purpose, for migratory birds.” The refuge encompasses the lower reaches of the Hatchie River and consists of bottomland hardwoods, moist-soil units, agricultural fields, and associated uplands. The large forested tracts, open lands, and aquatic features found on the refuge provide an important ecological niche for fish, wildlife, and plant species.
How to Get There
Lower Hatchie NWR is located north of Memphis between Covington and Ripley, west of Highway 51N on Highway 87W. The refuge headquarters is located approximately 18 miles down Highway 87W on the left (sign will read 'Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge') just before the Mississippi River. Sunk Lake PUNA is located off Highway 87W; take Sunk Lake Road to the right after passing Woodard's Grocery. The main entrance (i.e. look for the sign and gate) to the southern unit is approximately 4 miles down Sunk Lake Road on the right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1492) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge?
Lower Hatchie NWR is located north of Memphis between Covington and Ripley, west of Highway 51N on Highway 87W. The refuge headquarters is located approximately 18 miles down Highway 87W on the left (sign will read 'Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge') just before the Mississippi River. Sunk Lake PUNA is located off Highway 87W; take Sunk Lake Road to the right after passing Woodard's Grocery.…
How do I contact Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 731-738-2296 or email: lowerhatchie@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
