About Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge
Located along the Missouri River below Fort Randall Dam, Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge is managed to provide habitat for bald eagles. Today, the Refuge protects one of the last remnants of natural habitat along the Missouri River, and it benefits more than bald eagles. During spring and summer, the woods are alive with the calls, songs, and striking colors of woodland birds. Blue jays, cardinals, orioles, phoebes, wood peewees, warblers, grosbeaks, woodpeckers, and cuckoos dart through the treetops. Bobwhites and wild turkeys stalk the forest edges. To protect the eagles from disturbance, the Refuge itself is closed to visitors. However, interpretive panels located on Eagle Drive provide information about the Refuge as well as provides a great wildlife overlook.
How to Get There
The Lake Andes NWR Complex headquarters is located on the east shore of Lake Andes. From Ravinia, South Dakota, travel 2 miles north on the county gravel road and 1.5 east to reach the Refuge headquarters. From the community of Lake Andes, travel north .5 mile then east 3.5 miles on a hard-surfaced county road, crossing the Lake from west to east before reaching the office and visitor center nestled under the cottonwoods.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Karl E. Mundt 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 Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/3950) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge?
The Lake Andes NWR Complex headquarters is located on the east shore of Lake Andes. From Ravinia, South Dakota, travel 2 miles north on the county gravel road and 1.5 east to reach the Refuge headquarters. From the community of Lake Andes, travel north .5 mile then east 3.5 miles on a hard-surfaced county road, crossing the Lake from west to east before reaching the office and visitor center nestl…
How do I contact Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 605-487-7603 or email: LakeAndes@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
