Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge

Hunting on Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge was expanded in 2020 and included additional opportunities for migratory birds, upland game and big game hunting.  The refuge provides thousands of acres of forested habitat for deer, turkey, and small game hunting, as well as grasslands and...

Two Rivers allows for recreational and commercial fishing. Commercial fishing, including that for carp control, requires a special use permit, contact the refuge if interested in commercial fishing on Two Rivers.

We follow fishing regulations set by the respective state the area is within...

Birding opportunities at Two Rivers depend on the season visitors use the refuge. Take a look at the refuge bird list for a complete list of species that use the refuge and the season they might be spotted. Printed lists are available at the refuge visitor center or at information kiosks around...

Two Rivers is an excellent place to watch wildlife.  Located on the Mississippi Flyway the refuge has many opportunities to view different migratory bird species at various times of the year.  Three major habitat types in the refuge (wetlands, grasslands, and forests) provide for their...

Take a hike! Two Rivers has a trail for everyone, enjoy the hum of busy pollinators as you walk through our Prairie Adventure Trail, a songbird chorus in a floodplain forest along the Gilbert Lake Hiking Trail, and view hundreds of wading birds along the Swan Lake Levee trail, to name a few....

We proudly serve the St. Louis community by offering programs both on and off the refuge, many with our partners including the Gateway Arch, Little Creek Nature Area, the YMCA, St. Louis Audubon Society, and Pere Marquette State Park, to name a few. Our programs appeal to people of all ages,...

From birds to mammals, to rivers and bottomland forests, there are picture-perfect opportunities around every corner at Two Rivers. Read on to learn more about photography at Two Rivers before your visit.

Viewing blind – the refuge has a viewing blind overlooking wetland areas in front of...

The serene backwaters of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers offer paddlers reprieve from the bustling urban center of St. Louis, just 20 miles away.

Know before you go – Before you head out to Two Rivers for your next canoe, kayak, or paddle board trip here are a few things to...

Boats provide the best way to see many refuges, and Two Rivers is no exception. Meandering backwaters of the Prairie Pond management area located within the Batchtown Division offer excellent fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities by boat. Meander through an island complex in the Portage...

Picnicking is allowed in all open areas on the refuge.  Picnic tables are provided at the refuge headquarters, near the pond on the Wildlife Haven Trail, and at the observation deck on the Prairie Adventure Trail.

Please practice "leave no trace" ideals and pack any trash out with you...

Rangers lead wildlife walks, tours, and education programs at Two Rivers.  Programs must be scheduled in advance by contacting the refuge headquarters to arrange for a time when staff are available.

Removing shed antlers from the refuge is not allowed.  Please enjoy the beauty of these items and leave them where they are laying.

Wild edible foraging of mushrooms, nuts, and berries is allowed when it is for personal consumption only (no collecting for commercial use).

Other than wild edibles listed above, remember that searching for or removal of any natural items such as antlers, plants, wildlife (i.e. turtles and...

Two Rivers allows dog walking, all pets must be leashed when using the refuge. Do not leave dogs unattended and pack waste bags to clean up after pets. Pack water and a bowl to keep your furry friends hydrated, especially during hot, humid summers in the floodplain. 

Painting and drawing in nature is allowed at all sites open to the public.  Contact the refuge headquarters if you would like to temporarily display your artwork created on the refuge.