Welcome to Little River National Wildlife Refuge, one of Oklahoma’s most extensive bottomland hardwood forests. In a world filled with daily stresses, national wildlife refuges offer a much-needed escape to reconnect with the natural world. Whether you’re a hunter, angler, wildlife enthusiast, or someone seeking solace in the beauty of nature, this refuge provides the perfect setting for outdoor adventures.

Nestled within the refuge, visitors can explore one of the state’s last remaining intact tracks of bottomland hardwood forest. As you step into this remarkable ecosystem, a pristine forest plays a vital role in purifying rivers and mitigating the impact of floodwaters. Picture yourself surrounded by majestic cypress trees, their flared trunks reflecting in sloughs and oxbow lakes as flocks of mallards and wood ducks gracefully glide by. Listen to the symphony of frogs and watch for the elusive alligator floating peacefully in the tranquil waters. Little River National Wildlife Refuge offers abundant experiences that allow visitors to reconnect with the wonders of nature.

One of the refuge’s highlights is the presence of champion trees, the largest specimens of their respective species. These awe-inspiring giants evoke a sense of wonder and deserve our utmost protection. Within the refuge, you’ll find 11 state-champion trees, including bald cypress, Hercules club, shagbark hickory, water hickory, sugar maple, cherry bark oak, overcup oak, pawpaw, sugarberry, sweetleaf, and water elm. These magnificent trees thrive in the fertile soils of the bottomland floodplain, providing a living testament to the refuge’s ecological significance.

The Duck Roost Slough observation deck is a must-visit location for bird enthusiasts. Over 191 bird species have been documented within Little River National Wildlife Refuge, making it a paradise for avian enthusiasts. Among the avian residents is the rare Swainson’s warbler, a secretive songbird that finds solace in the refuge’s secluded nesting areas. Neotropical migrants such as flycatchers, swallows, vireos, and warblers grace the skies with their vibrant plumage and melodic songs. During winter, bald eagles can be spotted roosting in tall trees, where they prey on waterfowl and fish. Keep your eyes peeled for wild turkeys foraging for acorns or the graceful flight of a Mississippi kite soaring above you.

As you traverse the refuge’s trails and observation areas, don’t be surprised if you spot an American alligator gliding stealthily through the wetland swamps. Little River National Wildlife Refuge lies within the northwest expansion of the alligator’s prehistoric range, providing a glimpse into the world of this ancient reptile.

The refuge caters to a variety of outdoor activities. Hunting is permitted during designated seasons for white-tailed deer, squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, turkey, waterfowl, beaver, feral hog, and coyote. Anglers can enjoy the tranquil fishing opportunities of Yanubbee Lake, Forked Lake, and the 17-mile stretch of Little River frontage. Wildlife observation and photography are popular pastimes, with the Duck Roost Slough observation deck and the refuge’s 1.74 miles of primitive walking trails providing excellent vantage points to capture the beauty of the natural world.