St. Francis Sunken Lands WMA, Delta Travel Guide

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.