About Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge
In 1998, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge became the 549th National Wildlife Refuge in the Country. Located in far western Kentucky, the refuge encompasses of one of the largest remaining bottomland hardwood forest in the region. Bottomland hardwood forests are one of the most biologically productive ecosystems on land. Freshwater mussels, amphibians, fish, and mammals are all found in abundance here. Additionally, migratory songbirds and waterfowl take advantage of this rich habitat on their long flights from nesting to wintering grounds. This diversity and abundance of wildlife provides ample hunting, fishing, and other recreational opportunities on the refuge.
How to Get There
Directions to Refuge Headquarters: From I-24, Exit 25- I-69/Purchase Parkway south; to Exit 43- Benton/Symsonia towards Benton; left on US HWY 641 North; Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge Office is ~1 mile on left on US HWY 641.GPS Coordinates: 36.879829, -88.344359Directions to Environmental Education and Recreation Area: From I-69/Purchase Parkway, Exit 43- Benton/Symsonia Exit towards Benton; right on US HWY 641 south; left on E 12th/KY-408 east; Environmental Education and Recreation Area is ~ 1 mile on the right.From Refuge Headquarters, turn right out of the parking lot on to US HWY 641 South; left on E 12th/KY-408; Environmental Education and Recreation Area is ~ 1 mile on the right.GPS Coordinates: 36.857111, -88.337127
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Clarks River 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 Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/4059) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge?
Directions to Refuge Headquarters: From I-24, Exit 25- I-69/Purchase Parkway south; to Exit 43- Benton/Symsonia towards Benton; left on US HWY 641 North; Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge Office is ~1 mile on left on US HWY 641.GPS Coordinates: 36.879829, -88.344359Directions to Environmental Education and Recreation Area: From I-69/Purchase Parkway, Exit 43- Benton/Symsonia Exit towards Bento…
How do I contact Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 270-527-5770 or email: clarksriver@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
