Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge

Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge is a protected nature area in northeastern Louisiana with extensive bottomland forest. The refuge contains river floodplains and wooded wetlands where water and dense vegetation shape the landscape.

The refuge was established in 1980 to preserve the rare bottomland forests that once covered much of the Mississippi Delta region. These woodlands have declined significantly over time due to land changes and development.

The refuge serves as a place where people practice hunting and fishing according to local traditions and seasonal cycles. Visitors use the designated routes and wetland areas to spend time outdoors and connect with the landscape.

Access requires an annual permit to participate in hunting, fishing, and driving on designated trails throughout the refuge. Visitors should stay on marked routes and be prepared for wet ground and uneven terrain.

The refuge is home to Louisiana's largest black bear population, which was removed from the endangered species list following successful conservation work. This recovery demonstrates how focused protection efforts can bring wildlife back from decline.