Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge

National wildlife refuges offer us all a chance to unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. 

Driving Directions

To the office headquarters and Cussetah Bottoms Boardwalk Trail: From Highway 75, turn east onto Lavender Street. At the stop sign, turn left and follow S. 250 Rd to the end. 

Montezuma Creek Fishing Area: From I-40, head north on Highway 75 approximately 8 miles. Montezuma Creek Fishing Area will be on the right. 

• From Okmulgee, head south on Highway 75 for approximately 4.5 miles. Montezuma Creek Fishing Area will be on the left. 

Coalton Bottoms and the Railroad Overlook Trail: From Highway 75, turn east onto Lavender Street. At the stop sign, turn right and follow signs to the Railroad Overlook. 

Fees

There is no charge to visit.

Restrooms

Restrooms are available inside the refuge headquarters and the comfort station in the Cussetah Bottom Boardwalk Trail area.

Points of Interest

The Cussetah Bottoms Boardwalk Trail is a great place to visit. During hot summer months, the trees provide shade from the sun. A variety of wildlife species can be seen in the trees or foraging in the wetland. 

If you’re looking for a place to drop a fishing line, stop by the Montezuma Creek Fishing Area. The three ponds are open year-round and provide easy access for any one just looking to relax and enjoy time outdoors. 

What To Do

If you have 15-minutes. 

• Check out the Coalton Bottoms Railroad Trail and River Overlook 

If you have one hour. 

• Check out the Cussetah Bottoms Boardwalk Trail 

If you have half a day or more. 

• Grab a fishing pole and drop a line in one of the ponds at the Montezuma Creek Fishing Area. Don’t forget your fishing license! 

Know Before You Go

No matter the season, the refuge is always open. Just remember to pack for your adventure. Bring plenty of water, snacks, insect repellant, and sunscreen. Oklahoma weather is always changing. We recommend checking the weather forecast and making sure you are dressed for the temperatures. A good pair of comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended.  

Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety venomous snakes, such as the cottonmouth, western diamondback rattlesnake, and the pygmy rattlesnake. If you see one, do not approach. Keep your distance.

Visitor Tips

• Dawn and dusk are the best times to see wildlife. Animals that only move, whether for feeding or traveling, at dawn and dusk are called crepuscular.  
• In warmer seasons, few animals are moving on hot summer afternoons or on windy days. 
• Observe from the sidelines. Leave “abandoned” young animals alone. A parent is probably close by waiting for you to leave. 
• Don’t offer snacks; your lunch could disrupt wild digestive systems. 
• For a closer look, bring binoculars. This is especially helpful to see small, fast moving birds such as warblers, or large mammals out in an open prairie. 
• Wear clothing (if possible) that will help you blend in with the environment. Loud colors, or disruptive patterns, make you more easily seen. 
• Do not wear perfumes or use soap with strong smells, as the animals will smell you and will likely flee before you have a chance to see them.  
• Try sitting quietly in one good location. Let wildlife get used to your presence. Many animals that have hidden will reappear once they think you are gone. 
• Walk quietly in designated areas, being aware of sounds and smells. Often you will hear more than you will see.  
• Teach children quiet observation. Other wildlife watchers will appreciate your consideration. 
• Look for animal signs. Tracks, scat, feathers, and nests left behind often tell interesting stories.