About Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge
Geographically positioned in a area where the Central and Mississippi flyways overlap, Pond Creek Refuge provides outstanding habitat for waterfowl. The forested wetlands of the refuge are used by migrating and wintering waterfowl during the fall, winter and spring. Mallards, gadwall, American wigeon and wood ducks are among the over 15 species of waterfowl that traditionally use the seasonally flooded wetland habitats of the refuge. Other species seen less often include northern shoveler; blue and green-winged teal. The hardwood dominated forested wetlands of Pond Creek Refuge provide outstanding habitat for an abundance of birdlife, particularly neotropical migratory songbirds. Neotropical birds use the refuge as a rest stop during fall and spring migration to replenish energy reserves for the long journey to and from wintering areas in Central and South America. This habitat is also used for breeding and nesting during the spring and summer for many of these species. Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse, Carolina wren. Prothonotary warbler; northern cardinal, swainson's warbler; summer tanager; Kentucky warbler; and white-throated sparrow are among the over 20 species of migrants that nest here.
How to Get There
From highway 71, if coming from the south, turn left on Melrose Road and go approximately 2.7 miles and then turn left onto Central Road. If coming from the north, turn right onto Melrose Road, go approximately 3.4 miles then turn right onto Central Road. After getting onto Central road, go approximately .5 mile then turn left at the refuge office. From highway 41 at Horatio, take South Blackhawk Street, which is across from the Dollar General store then turn left onto Bruce Street. Go straight; Bruce Street turns into Central Road. Go approximately 10.1 miles to the refuge office on the right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Pond Creek 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 Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1570) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge?
From highway 71, if coming from the south, turn left on Melrose Road and go approximately 2.7 miles and then turn left onto Central Road. If coming from the north, turn right onto Melrose Road, go approximately 3.4 miles then turn right onto Central Road. After getting onto Central road, go approximately .5 mile then turn left at the refuge office. From highway 41 at Horatio, take South Blackhawk …
How do I contact Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 870-289-2126 or email: felsenthal@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
