Background

White River National Wildlife Refuge: A Natural Haven

Explore Arkansas's natural beauty at White River National Wildlife Refuge: a haven for wildlife, outdoor adventures, and serene escapes in the Mississippi Flyway.

4.4

The Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1935, is a sprawling sanctuary encompassing nearly 160,000 acres of bottomland hardwood forest in southeastern Arkansas. It serves as a vital habitat for migratory birds, native black bears, and diverse wildlife, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Mississippi River Valley.

A brief summary to White River National Wildlife Refuge

  • Monday 8 am-2:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-2:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-2:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-2:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-2:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late evening for the best chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Call the refuge headquarters for updates on road and trail conditions, as they can vary depending on water levels.
  • Bring appropriate gear for outdoor activities, including insect repellent, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
  • Check the hunting and fishing regulations before your visit, as they vary depending on the season and location.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    The White River National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center is located at 57 C C Camp Rd, St Charles, AR 72140. From St. Charles, head south on Highway 1 for approximately 1 mile. Turn left onto C C Camp Road and follow it to the visitor center. Parking is available at the visitor center.

  • Walking

    From the town of St. Charles, the visitor center is approximately a 1-mile walk. Head south on Highway 1 and turn left onto C C Camp Road. Follow C C Camp Road to the visitor center. Please be aware of traffic on Highway 1, as it is a state highway.

Unlock the Best of White River National Wildlife Refuge

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about White River National Wildlife Refuge

Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest remaining bottomland hardwood forests in the Mississippi River Valley, presents a unique landscape of fertile forests, over 300 lakes, streams, sloughs, and bayous. Established in 1935, the refuge's primary purpose is to protect migratory birds and other wildlife resources. The refuge is home to approximately two-thirds of the bird species found in Arkansas, including a large concentration of wintering mallard ducks in the Mississippi Flyway. In some years, up to 350,000 birds winter in the flooded bottomland forests. The refuge also hosts a native black bear population and several active bald eagle nests. Visitors can explore the refuge through various activities such as fishing, hunting, camping, and wildlife observation. There are approximately 19 primitive campsites scattered throughout the refuge. Hiking trails, including the ADA-compliant Upland Trail, offer opportunities to observe the diverse flora and fauna. The visitor center in St. Charles features exhibits on the area's history, ecology, and wildlife. The refuge's history is intertwined with the human history of the region. Hernando DeSoto landed near present-day St. Charles, which later became a trading post. Timber harvesting, commercial hunting, and fishing once dominated the local economy, leading to a decline in wildlife populations until the refuge's establishment. Today, the refuge plays a crucial role in conserving and restoring the natural heritage of the White River watershed.

Popular Experiences near White River National Wildlife Refuge

Popular Hotels near White River National Wildlife Refuge

Select Currency