About Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge
Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge is located in northwest Mississippi, 4 1/2 miles south of the town of Crowder. Established in 2000, this refuge consists of 2,374 acres. At the center of the refuge are 24 retired catfish ponds, ranging in size from 12 to 21 acres and totaling 497 acres. These ponds are intensively managed for migrating waterfowl, shorebirds, and wading birds. A majority of the refuge has been reforested in native bottomland hardwood species. Almost all of this forested land is flooded annually during the winter and spring by backwater flooding.Up to 10,000 migratory waterfowl winter on the refuge, and 34 species of shorebirds have been recorded during the spring and fall migration. Peregrine falcons, least terns, black terns, bald and golden eagles, and wood storks have been observed. Due to intensive management, the refuge is critically important as a sanctuary for waterfowl and neotropical migratory birds. For this reason, the refuge is closed to public access except for an observation tower at the north end of the ponds.
How to Get There
Coldwater River NWR is closed to public access, with the exception of an observation tower. To visit the tower, turn from Highway 332 in Crowder, MS on to Quitman Avenue. The refuge tower will be 4 1/2 miles down the road on your right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Coldwater River 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 Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/4050) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge?
Coldwater River NWR is closed to public access, with the exception of an observation tower. To visit the tower, turn from Highway 332 in Crowder, MS on to Quitman Avenue. The refuge tower will be 4 1/2 miles down the road on your right.
How do I contact Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 662-226-8286 or email: FW4RNorthMSRefuges@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
