Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge

Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge is a large protected area in Oklahoma featuring wetlands, grasslands, and wooded sections that meet the water along a lake arm. The landscape combines open water, vegetated shores, and meadows that shift in character with the seasons.

This refuge was established in 1946 to protect birds that migrate through the central part of North America. The creation was tied to the broader effort to preserve wetland habitats that birds depend on during their long journeys.

This refuge holds deep significance for the local communities who have long depended on this landscape and its resources. The place reflects how humans and wildlife can coexist, with daily patterns shaped by the seasons and the movements of birds passing through.

The refuge has observation points, trails, and fishing areas spread throughout that are free to visit and suitable for different activity levels. Plan your visit with attention to weather and insects, which vary greatly depending on the season you choose.

The refuge overlaps with the Denison Dam Project on the lake, creating a specialized habitat that benefits both waterfowl and shorebirds in an unusual way. This overlap allows water management for power and flood control to coexist with the natural breeding and feeding needs of birds.

Location: Johnston County

Inception: 1946

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/tishomingo

GPS coordinates: 34.17500,-96.65000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:09