Refuge staff work to restore natural floodplain conditions, including bottomland forests and its associated wetlands for the benefit of wildlife. We strive to provide public access to all areas for wildlife dependent recreation including hunting and fishing.
Cora Island Unit Construction

The Cora Island Unit will experience heavy construction traffic starting in November 2024 lasting through 2025.  Visitors can expect numerous dump trucks on the access road and possibly heavy equipment in the parking lot.  The unit remains open and visitors are reminded to leave room for dump trucks to pass through gate and to not drive through gate even if open.  

Visit Us

To some it’s pursuing game during an open season or to others taking in the beauty of the change of season. Whatever brings you to the nature of the refuge we hope you will respect what it has to offer. Take only the allowed limit and leave only tracks. On this refuge you are sure to find the nature you deserve. Hover over the map icons below to discover nature near you.   

Location and Contact Information

      Our Species

      The refuge provides habitat for a variety of wildlife. Most wildlife found throughout the state of Missouri reside on the refuge. The Missouri river drives the floodplain and aquatic habitat of lesser-known but equally important wildlife that inhabit the refuge. The endangered pallid sturgeon swims in her waters and the refuge plays a vital role in providing shallow water habitat for survival of sturgeon young.