About Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) contains 5,000 acres that is recognized as a National Natural Landmark, and 2,144 acres that are part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. The refuge annually winters several species of waterfowl. Peak numbers in January and February can exceed 200,000 birds. Wood ducks are year-round residents and annually raise approximately 2,500 young on the refuge. Over 225 bird species have been observed on the refuge. Other wildlife to look for are beavers, river otters, raccoons, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, bobcats, and the occasional armadillo.The Wilderness Act of 1964 created the National Wilderness Preservation System in order "to assure that an increasing population, accompanied by expanding settlement and growing mechanization, does not occupy and modify all areas in the United States, and its possession, leaving no lands designated for preservation and protection in their natural condition..."Big Lake Wilderness was established in 1976 and is 2,144 acres in size. For more information on Big Lake Wilderness, please visit: Wilderness.netRead about the refuge's history, wildlife, and more here: Big Lake NWR - General Brochure
How to Get There
Big Lake NWR is located in northeast Arkansas adjacent to the bootheel of Missouri. From Blytheville, travel west on State Highway 18 approximately 15 miles. From Jonesboro, travel east on State Highway 18 approximately 35 miles. The headquarters is located on the north side of the highway.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1300) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Big Lake NWR is located in northeast Arkansas adjacent to the bootheel of Missouri. From Blytheville, travel west on State Highway 18 approximately 15 miles. From Jonesboro, travel east on State Highway 18 approximately 35 miles. The headquarters is located on the north side of the highway.
How do I contact Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 870-564-2429 or email: steven_rimer@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
