About Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge
Established on Nov. 9, 1962, Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge lies within the floodplain of the Cumberland River which is now Barkley Lake. The refuge was established as a result of mitigation proceedings with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers when portion of the Kentucky Woodlands NWR was inundated with the creation of the Lake Barkley Project. Its primary purpose is to provide feeding and resting habitat for migratory birds with an emphasis placed on providing habitat for wintering waterfowl. Today, the refuge spans 8,862 acres.The mixture of open water, wetlands, woodlands, croplands, and grasslands creates a mosaic of wildlife-rich habitats. At peak population times for waterfowl, the refuge will average 35,000 birds per day with numbers that may exceed 80,000 during extremely cold weather. Historically the refuge has held up to 10% of the total black duck population wintering in the Mississippi flyway.
How to Get There
Cross Creeks NWR is located 75 miles northwest of Nashville, TN. Take Interstate 24 appoximately 45 miles, then U.S. Highway 79 from Clarksville, TN to Dover, TN. In Dover turn on TN Highway 49 south and travel two miles. Turn left on Wildlife Road and follow the signs to the office/visitor center complex.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Cross Creeks 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 Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1363) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge?
Cross Creeks NWR is located 75 miles northwest of Nashville, TN. Take Interstate 24 appoximately 45 miles, then U.S. Highway 79 from Clarksville, TN to Dover, TN. In Dover turn on TN Highway 49 south and travel two miles. Turn left on Wildlife Road and follow the signs to the office/visitor center complex.
How do I contact Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 931-232-7477 or email: crosscreeks@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
