About Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge
Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge was authorized on June 26, 1990 under the Emergency Wetland Resources Act of 1986. The refuge will eventually encompass 35,000 acres. Management emphasis is placed on acquiring land, restoring habitat and providing opportunities for the public to experience and learn about the Cache River Wetlands. Major habitats on the refuge include bottomland hardwood forest, cypress tupelo swamp, herbaceous wetlands, deep water habitats and canebrakes. Due to the ecological significance of this region, the wetlands on the refuge were designated a RAMSAR Wetland of International Importance.
How to Get There
Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge is located in the southernmost portion of Illinois, with lands located in Union, Pulaski, Alexander, and Johnson counties. Take Interstate 57, and exit at #18, Shawnee College Road. Travel approximately 7.1 miles east to the refuge office located on the Shawnee College Rustic Campus, Building D. The refuge is approximately 22 miles north of Cairo, Illinois, and 35 miles south of Carbondale, Illinois.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Cypress 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 Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1368) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge?
Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge is located in the southernmost portion of Illinois, with lands located in Union, Pulaski, Alexander, and Johnson counties. Take Interstate 57, and exit at #18, Shawnee College Road. Travel approximately 7.1 miles east to the refuge office located on the Shawnee College Rustic Campus, Building D. The refuge is approximately 22 miles north of Cairo, Illinois, a…
How do I contact Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 618-634-2231 or email: cypresscreek@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
