Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge

Fish and Wildlife Service, Tennessee.

Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) sits along the lower 17 miles of the Hatchie River in western Tennessee. Unlike most Mississippi River tributaries that have been straightened and levees constructed for flood control, the Hatchie River remains the longest continuous stretch of naturally meandering river in the lower Mississippi River Valley. In result, wildlife and fisheries thrive in its almost pristine watershed ecosystems. The refuge helps protect and enhance the ever diminishing bottomland hardwood forests, along with other important habitats within the Hatchie River watershed. The refuge currently comprises 9,451 acres.

Nearby Activities


Directions

Lower Hatchie NWR is located north of Memphis between Covington and Ripley, west of Highway 51N on Highway 87W. The refuge headquarters is located approximately 18 miles down Highway 87W on the left (sign will read 'Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge') just before the Mississippi River. Sunk Lake PUNA is located off Highway 87W; take Sunk Lake Road to the right after passing Woodard's Grocery. The main entrance (i.e. look for the sign and gate) to the southern unit is approximately 4 miles down Sunk Lake Road on the right.

Additional Information