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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Mingo National Wildlife Refuge

Puxico, Missouri · Stoddard County

The refuge contains 21,592 acres and lies in a basin formed in an ancient abandoned channel of the Mississippi River. Mingo National Wildlife Refuge also contains a 7,730-acre Wilderness Area designated as Wilderness by Congress under the 1964 Wilderness Act to “…protect and preserve the wilderness character…for the us…

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About Mingo National Wildlife Refuge

The refuge contains 21,592 acres and lies in a basin formed in an ancient abandoned channel of the Mississippi River. Mingo National Wildlife Refuge also contains a 7,730-acre Wilderness Area designated as Wilderness by Congress under the 1964 Wilderness Act to “…protect and preserve the wilderness character…for the use and enjoyment of the American people in a way that will leave these areas unimpaired for future use and enjoyment as wilderness.” Hunting, fishing, hiking, wildlife observation, and wildlife photography are encouraged in the Wilderness Area. Mingo National Wildlife Refuge is recognized as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society as the refuge supports bird species and habitats that are of conservation priority.

How to Get There

Mingo National Wildlife Refuge is located in southeast Missouri in Stoddard and Wayne Counties. Visitors can stop by the Visitor Center located 1 mile north of Puxico off Highway 51 at 24279 State Highway 51, Puxico.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Mingo National Wildlife Refuge

Heading to Mingo 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 Mingo National Wildlife Refuge?

No central reservation system listed for Mingo National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1515) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Mingo National Wildlife Refuge?

Mingo National Wildlife Refuge is located in southeast Missouri in Stoddard and Wayne Counties. Visitors can stop by the Visitor Center located 1 mile north of Puxico off Highway 51 at 24279 State Highway 51, Puxico.

How do I contact Mingo National Wildlife Refuge?

You can reach the park at phone: 573-222-3589 or email: mingo@fws.gov.