About Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge
Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1970 as an overlay project of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Robert S. Kerr Reservoir. The refuge protects a very unique habitat found within the Arkansas River flood plain that includes bottomland hardwood forests and wetlands. It provides habitat for many species of migratory birds and food and cover for other resident wildlife, like white-tailed deer, bobcat, beaver and the American bald eagle. Within the refuge, ancient campsites dating as far back as 1100 AD serve as reminders of Native Americans that traveled through or lived in this area and depended on the Arkansas River. Before the arrival of European settlers, Caddoan and other cultures relied on this landscape for centuries. During America’s Civil War, the Arkansas River would serve as a historic boundary between Union and Confederate forces that found themselves stationed on opposing sides of the river. Today, the 20,800-acre Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge and the wildlife and habitat it protects are part of the National Wildlife Refuge System, the only national network of lands and waters managed for the benefit of wildlife.
How to Get There
The refuge is approximately 150 miles east of Oklahoma City, and 35 miles west of Fort Smith, Arkansas, off of Interstate 40. Take the Vian exit (# 297) from I-40, follow the county road three miles south to refuge headquarters (follow the signs). The latitude and longitude to the headquarters are: 35.447281, -94.972601.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Sequoyah 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 Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1609) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge?
The refuge is approximately 150 miles east of Oklahoma City, and 35 miles west of Fort Smith, Arkansas, off of Interstate 40. Take the Vian exit (# 297) from I-40, follow the county road three miles south to refuge headquarters (follow the signs). The latitude and longitude to the headquarters are: 35.447281, -94.972601.
How do I contact Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 918-773-5252 or email: chad_ford@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
