Desoto National Wildlife Refuge

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, nestled along the Missouri River on the border of Iowa and Nebraska, spans 8,365 acres of diverse habitats. Within this expanse lies DeSoto Lake, an oxbow lake shaped by the river’s historical course. The refuge boasts bottomland forests, tall grass prairies, and wetlands meticulously managed to replicate the natural floodplain, attracting a myriad of migratory birds during the spring and fall.

The centerpiece of this refuge is the remnants of the Bertrand Steamboat, which sank in the former river bend and left behind a treasure trove of nearly 250,000 artifacts now housed in the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. This historic blend with wildlife makes DeSoto a unique encounter with nature and the past, offering visitors a remarkable experience at the intersection of history and natural beauty.

Visitors can explore the refuge daily from sunrise to sunset, immersing themselves in the Missouri River floodplain habitat, witnessing the vital role it plays in supporting diverse wildlife. From the historical artifacts to the vibrant migratory bird populations, DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge invites all to disconnect from the chaos of modern life and reconnect with the rich tapestry of nature and history intertwined within its boundaries.

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