Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge: A Prairie Reborn
Discover Iowa's tallgrass prairie heritage at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, where bison roam and native ecosystems thrive. Open dawn to dusk!
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, located near Prairie City, Iowa, is a remarkable 6,000-acre testament to prairie restoration. Established in 1990, the refuge is dedicated to reconstructing and managing the diverse ecosystems of tallgrass prairie, oak savanna, and sedge meadow that once dominated Iowa's landscape. Visitors can explore walking trails, a scenic auto tour, and witness the reintroduced bison and elk herds that roam the prairie.
A brief summary to Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
- 9981 Pacific St, Prairie City, Iowa, 50228, US
- +1515-994-3400
- Visit website
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing, especially on the auto tour where you can spot bison and elk.
- Check the refuge's website or call ahead for updates on trail closures or visitor center access.
- Visit during different seasons to witness the prairie's changing beauty, from spring wildflowers to autumn colors.
- Be prepared for gravel roads on the Prairie Wildlife Drive; drive slowly and watch for wildlife.
- Pack out everything you pack in, as trash receptacles are limited to the visitor center and trailheads.
Getting There
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Driving
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is located approximately 20 miles east of Des Moines. From Des Moines, take Highway 163 to the Prairie City exit. Follow the paved entry road for 4.5 miles to reach the refuge. Note that GPS may not be accurate, so follow the signs. Parking is available at the visitor center and trailheads.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to the refuge, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service from Des Moines or a nearby town like Prairie City. A taxi from Des Moines to the refuge will cost approximately $50-$70. Be sure to arrange for a return trip in advance, as services may be limited in the area.
Discover more about Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Valle Drive In
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Experience nostalgia at Iowa's oldest drive-in! First-run movies, classic snacks, and family fun under the stars in Newton, Iowa.
Quality Inn Newton at I-80
21.8 km
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Culver’s
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Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
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Hardee’s
22.1 km
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Pizza Ranch
22.1 km
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Montana Mike's Steakhouse
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Super 8 by Wyndham Newton
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The Thunderdome
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Jasper County Historical Museum
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Maytag Park
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Dragoon Trail
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Dave's Pizza
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Okoboji Grill
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Taco Bell
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KFC
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Starbucks
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Burger King
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Store For Homes Furniture
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The High Life Lounge
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