DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge: A Missouri River Valley Haven
Discover wildlife and history along the Missouri River at DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge in Iowa and Nebraska.
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, straddling Iowa and Nebraska along the Missouri River, is an 8,362-acre sanctuary for migratory birds and a testament to the region's rich history. Established in 1958, the refuge boasts diverse habitats, including DeSoto Lake, an oxbow lake formed by a channelization project. Visitors can explore the Bertrand Steamboat Museum, hike scenic trails, and witness spectacular bird migrations.
A brief summary to DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge
- 1434 316th Ln, Missouri Valley, Iowa, 51555, US
- +1712-388-4800
- Visit website
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or fall migration to witness the spectacular flights of snow geese and other waterfowl.
- Explore the Bertrand Steamboat Museum in the visitor center to see artifacts from the 1865 steamboat wreck.
- Bring binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing along the trails and at the Bob Starr Wildlife Overlook.
- Check the refuge's website or call ahead for seasonal road closures and hunting season information.
Getting There
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Driving
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge is located 25 miles north of Omaha, Nebraska. From Omaha, take Interstate 29 north to U.S. Highway 30, Exit 75 at Missouri Valley. Continue west on US Hwy 30 for five miles to the refuge entrance. Alternatively, take US Hwy 75 north to Hwy 30, going east five miles to the refuge entrance on DeSoto Avenue. Note that the south gate entrance near Wilson Island is closed from October 15 to April 14; use the Highway 30 entrance. A daily entrance fee of $3 per vehicle is required.
Discover more about DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
John Pierre Cabanne's Pioneer Fur-Trading Post
19.7 km
Explore the rich heritage of the fur trade at John Pierre Cabanne's Pioneer Fur-Trading Post in Omaha, Nebraska, a remarkable historical landmark.
Winter Quarters Cemetery
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Explore the serene and historical Winter Quarters Cemetery in Omaha, Nebraska, a sacred site honoring the legacy of early Mormon pioneers.
Mormon Trail Center at Winter Quarters
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Winter Quarters Historical Marker
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Oregon Trail Marker
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History Walks LLC
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Malcolm X Historical Marker
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Kountze Park
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Jewell Building
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Hot Shops Art Center
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Unmissable attractions to see
Steamboat Bertrand Collection
0.1 km
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Steamboat Bertrand
2.1 km
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Rand Bar
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Nobles Lake
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Wilson Island State Recreation Area
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Modale City Park
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Modale City Ballfield
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Fish Lake Wildlife Area
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Fort Atkinson State Historical Park
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Missouri Valley Dog Park
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Missouri Valley Fair Grounds
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Little Willow Park
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Missouri Dale Wildlife Area
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Missouri Valley City Park
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Essential places to dine
Subway
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WD Cravings restaurant
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Wave Bistro
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Avoli Osteria
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Lalibela Restaurant
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Brushi Bistro & Bar
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The Round Bar & Kitchen
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Mula
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Missouri Valley Antiques & Classic Cars
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Phillips 66
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Missouri Travel Plaza
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M J's Flowers & Balloons
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Foodland Express Spirits & More
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Food Land
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Gypsy Jos Crystals & Jewelry
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Rise & Grind Coffee Co.
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Fort Bar
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Taylor Quik Pik
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Penny's Diner
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JC's Dairy Den (Formerly Dairy Den)
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Pizza Ranch
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The Bucksnort
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Sila Beauty Bar
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Bamboo Village Restaurant
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Papa Joe's
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Campo Azul
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Wishing Hills Barn
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