Background

Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge

Explore a unique wet pine savanna and witness the majestic Mississippi Sandhill Crane in its protected habitat near Gautier, Mississippi.

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Discover the endangered Mississippi Sandhill Crane and its unique habitat at this national wildlife refuge in Gautier, Mississippi. Explore the wet pine savanna, visit the interactive visitor center, and stroll along scenic trails for a chance to see rare plants and wildlife [3, 4].

A brief summary to Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge Admin Building And Visitor Contact Station

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see the Mississippi Sandhill Cranes [11].
  • Bring binoculars for optimal viewing of wildlife [11].
  • Check the Visitor Center hours before you go, as they are limited [3].
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the nature trails [11].
  • Be aware that most of the refuge is off-limits to the public to protect the endangered cranes and their habitat [5].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge is located north of Gautier, Mississippi. From I-10, take Exit 61 (Gautier-Vancleave Road) and head north [6, 8]. The Visitor Center is approximately one-half mile north of the interstate [6]. There is no fee to enter the refuge [5]. Parking is available at the Visitor Center [6]. Be aware that the entrance gate closes at sunset [15].

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    If arriving from the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT), taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available [13, 16]. The ride to the refuge is approximately 36 miles and takes around 40 minutes [13]. Expect to pay between $60-$80 for a one-way trip [10, 16]. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip [19].

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Discover more about Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge Admin Building And Visitor Contact Station

The Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1975, protects the critically endangered Mississippi sandhill crane and its unique wet pine savanna habitat [3, 4, 9]. This refuge represents a step back in time along the Gulf Coast, showcasing a landscape rich in biodiversity [4]. The wet pine savanna is one of the most diverse ecosystems in North America, with a colorful blend of rare orchids, carnivorous plants, and other ground cover thriving beneath scattered pines [4, 20]. Visitors can explore the refuge by starting at the Visitor Center, where they can find helpful information, maps, and brochures [6, 8]. Interactive exhibits and a short film provide insights into the refuge's purpose and the efforts to protect the cranes [4, 8]. An observation deck offers an exciting perspective of the refuge [6]. The refuge offers opportunities for hiking and photography [5]. The ¾-mile C.L. Dees Trail and the 1-mile Fontainebleau Trail wind through pine savanna, tidal marsh, and pine scrub [5, 8]. These trails provide a chance to see various plant and animal life, including wading birds, songbirds, white-tailed deer, raccoon, and fox [5]. In January and February, scheduled tours to blinds overlooking crane-feeding areas may be available [5].

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