Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge

Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge is a conservation area in western Tennessee featuring bottomland hardwood forests in the Mississippi River floodplain. The refuge includes observation towers, nature trails, and facilities for wildlife viewing and study.

The refuge was established in 1985 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on land that was previously used for timber operations. This conversion of private land into a protected area has enabled long-term conservation of this ecologically important region.

The name honors the Chickasaw, who lived in this region of Tennessee before European settlement. Today, interpretive signs and displays at the refuge tell the story of their presence in this landscape.

Access is from 1505 Sandbluff Road in Ripley with marked trails and observation areas throughout the property. Wear sturdy shoes and be aware that conditions can be muddy during wet seasons.

During spring and fall migration, the refuge becomes a stopping point for tens of thousands of waterfowl traveling between their breeding and wintering grounds. These seasonal movements create ideal viewing windows for birdwatchers throughout the year.

Location: Tennessee

Inception: 1985

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

GPS coordinates: 35.83330,-89.65000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:21