Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge

Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge is a large protected area where the Saline and Ouachita Rivers meet, creating a landscape of wetlands, lakes, creeks, and forests. This diverse terrain supports numerous wildlife species and plant communities across its extensive grounds.

The refuge was established to replace wildlife habitats lost to a dam and river navigation project in the same region. This environmental compensation effort helped preserve an important ecosystem for future decades.

The archaeological remains scattered across the refuge show how Caddo peoples fished and settled in this region for generations. Visitors walking through the land can still sense the presence of these ancient communities in the landscape.

Visitors need to arrange access before arrival and can explore the refuge by boat, on foot, or from fishing spots along the water. The best time to visit depends on which wildlife and plants interest you and how much time you have to spend.

The refuge is home to a rare woodpecker species that is federally protected and nests in old trees throughout the area. Notably, the water level transforms dramatically with the seasons, flooding large portions of the landscape at certain times of year.