Little River National Wildlife Refuge

Located in southwestern Arkansas, Little River National Wildlife Refuge spans over 15,000 acres of bottomland forests, hardwood swamps, and wetlands along the Little River and its tributaries. Established in 1986, the refuge protects critical habitat for a variety of migratory birds, waterfowl, and species dependent on wetland ecosystems. The landscape consists predominantly of bottomland hardwoods such as oak, gum, and cypress, interspersed with sloughs, oxbow lakes, and channels that provide essential breeding and feeding grounds for wildlife. The refuge plays a vital role in conserving habitat for waterfowl species including mallards, wood ducks, and other migratory birds, as well as deer, beavers, bobcats, and numerous amphibians and reptiles. Visitors to Little River NWR can experience excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year, with fall and winter being prime months for waterfowl observation. Fishing is a popular activity, particularly for bass, crappie, and catfish in the refuge’s waterways. The refuge is accessible for hiking and birdwatching, with several observation platforms and wildlife viewing areas available. While there are no developed campgrounds on site, visitors can engage in day-use recreation and enjoy scenic drives through the wildlife refuge. Little River NWR appeals to birders, anglers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a relatively quiet, natural setting to experience Arkansas’s bottomland ecosystem.