DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge lies along the Missouri River north of Omaha, near Missouri Valley, Iowa, about a 35-minute drive from downtown. Managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, it protects forest, grassland and wetland habitat around DeSoto Lake, an old river bend. It is a stop on a major migration route.

The visitor center houses the Bertrand Museum. The steamboat Bertrand sank in a river bend that is now DeSoto Lake, and its cargo and historic items, nearly 250,000 artifacts, are displayed here. The visitor center also has wildlife exhibits and a viewing area, making it a good rainy-day option.

Wildlife is the other draw. Spring and fall bring the largest bird concentrations, with waterfowl such as mallards and northern pintails, and bald eagles gather there. More than 100 species of birds use the refuge, and songbirds are most abundant in late spring and summer. Trails are open daily during posted hours.

Some areas are seasonal: from April 15 to October 14 the auto tour loop, South Gate Recreation Area, fishing and no-wake boating open. The refuge is a fee area, and an entry permit is needed to enter, drive refuge roads or visit the visitor center. It suits birders, photographers, families and history fans.

Highlights

• Bertrand steamboat artifacts (nearly 250,000)
• Migrating waterfowl and bald eagles
• Over 100 bird species
• Trails open daily
• Seasonal auto tour loop and fishing

Tips for your visit

• The refuge is a federal fee area; pay at the visitor center or self-service stations, or use a federal recreation pass.
• The auto tour loop and South Gate Recreation Area are open April 15 to October 14.
• The listed main phone number was noted as not working; check the FWS page for current contacts.
• Visitor center is closed on federal holidays.

Fee amount not found in sources; auto tour loop is closed from Oct. 15 to Apr. 14.