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St. Francis Sunken Lands WMA: A Natural Wonder Born of Earthquakes

Explore the St. Francis Sunken Lands WMA: a northeast Arkansas treasure offering hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, and a glimpse into earthquake history.

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The St. Francis Sunken Lands Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in northeast Arkansas is a unique wetland area created by the New Madrid Earthquakes of 1811 and 1812. This natural area offers diverse recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, and bird watching, spread across its 30,574 acres.

A brief summary to St. Francis Sunken Lands WMA

Local tips

  • Check the AGFC website for the most up-to-date information on hunting seasons and regulations before your visit.
  • Be prepared for potential flooding, especially during the winter and spring months.
  • Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes and other insects can be abundant, especially during warmer months.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking in potentially wet and muddy conditions.
  • Consider bringing binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing and bird watching opportunities.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The St. Francis Sunken Lands WMA is accessible via several state highways, including AR-63, AR-69, AR-135, and AR-18. From Jonesboro, a major access point is the Siphons Access off AR-63 near Marked Tree. Another option is to take Highway 18 east to Highway 135, then south to County Road 876, which leads into the WMA. Be aware that interior roads are often limited to logging trails and may be closed to vehicular traffic. Parking is available at designated access points , and there is no fee.

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Discover more about St. Francis Sunken Lands WMA

The St. Francis Sunken Lands Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a sprawling natural area in northeast Arkansas, a direct result of the powerful New Madrid Earthquakes of 1811-1812. These seismic events caused the ground along the St. Francis River to drop dramatically, creating a large, swampy overflow area now known as the "Sunken Lands". Today, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) manages over 30,574 acres of this unique terrain, offering a diverse range of recreational opportunities. Waterfowl hunting is particularly popular, drawing many visitors to the area. The WMA also supports abundant populations of small game like squirrel, quail, and rabbit, as well as deer and turkey. The area's waterways, including the St. Francis Lake (actually a wide part of the river), provide excellent fishing for catfish, bass, bream, and crappie. The WMA is also a haven for wildlife viewing and bird watching, with opportunities to spot shorebirds, eagles, and various duck species, especially during the October to February flooding period. The Sunken Lands feature bottomland hardwood forests, sloughs, bayous, and cypress-tupelo swamps, creating a complex network of waterways that support a wide variety of wetland habitats. These habitats are critical for migratory birds and provide refuge for deer and small mammals. Visitors can explore the area via boat ramps and wildlife observation points, immersing themselves in the tranquil environment of the Mississippi Delta.

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