Little River National Wildlife Refuge

Little River National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area spanning around 14,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and river systems in southeastern Oklahoma. The refuge includes hiking trails like Buzzard Roost Trail and GTR Trail that pass through different habitats where visitors can observe wildlife.

The refuge was established in 1987 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect the bottomland hardwood forest and its natural ecosystems. This action preserved a critical habitat for many native species that depend on these river and wetland environments.

The refuge serves as a place where visitors can engage with local conservation efforts and deepen their connection to the natural world around them. People use guided programs to understand the region's ecological importance and the species that depend on this habitat.

The best time to visit is during migration seasons when bird activity peaks across the refuge's various habitats. Wear sturdy footwear and bring insect protection, as trails pass through wetland areas that can be muddy or buggy.

The refuge holds eleven state champion trees, including bald cypress and cherrybark oak specimens. These ancient trees represent some of the largest examples of their kind in the state and show how the forest develops over time.

Location: McCurtain County

Inception: 1987

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

GPS coordinates: 33.94640,-94.77250

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:46