Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge

Fish and Wildlife Service, South Dakota.

 

Located along the Missouri River below Fort Randall Dam, Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge is managed to provide habitat for bald eagles. Today, the Refuge protects one of the last remnants of natural habitat along the Missouri River, and it benefits more than bald eagles. 

During spring and summer, the woods are alive with the calls, songs, and striking colors of woodland birds. Blue jays, cardinals, orioles, phoebes, wood peewees, warblers, grosbeaks, woodpeckers, and cuckoos dart through the treetops. Bobwhites and wild turkeys stalk the forest edges. 

To protect the eagles from disturbance, the Refuge itself is closed to visitors.  However, interpretive panels located on Eagle Drive provide information about the Refuge as well as provides a great wildlife overlook.


Directions

The Lake Andes NWR Complex headquarters is located on the east shore of Lake Andes. From Ravinia, South Dakota, travel 2 miles north on the county gravel road and 1.5 east to reach the Refuge headquarters. From the community of Lake Andes, travel north .5 mile then east 3.5 miles on a hard-surfaced county road, crossing the Lake from west to east before reaching the office and visitor center nestled under the cottonwoods.

Additional Information