About Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge
Wapanocca NWR located 20 miles northwest of Memphis, Tennessee, in Crittenden County, Arkansas was established in 1961 to provided habitat for migrating and wintering waterfowl. The refuge is located four miles west of the Mississippi River and protected from the river by the river levee. Prior to establishment of the refuge, it was the site of the Wapanocca Outing Club which was formed in 1886. This was one of the oldest and most prestigious hunting clubs. The club managed for waterfowl and most of the lake was set aside as a waterfowl sanctuary. Today the refuge literally stands as a wildlife oasis in an agricultural sea. An excellent diversity of habitat exists comprised on mainly agricultural land, bottomland hardwood forest, early stage reforested hardwoods, open water and flooded cypress/willow swamp. Thirty small field impoundments totaling 190 acres have been developed for waterfowl in the agricultural area. 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 nest on the refuge. Due to loss of the major water source for the 600 acre Wapanocca Lake, fisheries has declined from historical levels, but the lake is still a major attraction for waterfowl to this area.
How to Get There
Administrative Office and Visitor Center Directions:From I-55 heading south, turn off at exit #23, travel southeast on Highway 77 two miles, turn east on Hammond Avenue, go under the railroad overpass and make first right (refuge entrance). From I-55 heading north, turn off at exit #21 (Highway 42), travel east 1 ½ miles on Highway 42, cross Highway 77, go under the railroad overpass and make first right (refuge entrance).
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Wapanocca 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 Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1663) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge?
Administrative Office and Visitor Center Directions:From I-55 heading south, turn off at exit #23, travel southeast on Highway 77 two miles, turn east on Hammond Avenue, go under the railroad overpass and make first right (refuge entrance). From I-55 heading north, turn off at exit #21 (Highway 42), travel east 1 ½ miles on Highway 42, cross Highway 77, go under the railroad overpass and make firs…
How do I contact Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 870-347-2614 or email: glen_miller@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
