Established in 1975, Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is located in southeast Arkansas, approximately eight miles west of the town of Crossett. Named for a small community located at its southwest corner, this 76,000 acre refuge contains an abundance of water resources dominated by the Ouachita and Saline Rivers and the Felsenthal Pool.
Moon and sun in a total eclipse
Solar Eclipse Viewing: Need to Know

Felsenthal NWR will experience nearly 90% coverage of the sun during the April 8, 2024 Solar Eclipse event. We encourage those seeking locations for viewing to attend one of the many opportunities nearby.

https://www.arkansas.com/natural-state/eclipse

In order to ensure visitor and wildlife/habitat safety and well-being, please note the following:

  • Though the refuge is densely forested, you may view the eclipse from any designated parking areas. 
  • Please stay in designated parking areas and on designated trails. Do not go beyond locked gates or past Area Closed signs. 
  • All motor vehicles are restricted to normal passenger vehicle roads. Blocking gates, boat ramps or roadways with any vehicles is prohibited. 
  • If a parking area is full, please move on to another area in order to avoid overcrowding.
  • The consumption of alcohol in parking lots and on roadways; consumption of alcohol in plain view in campgrounds is prohibited. 
  • The Youth (Modern Gun) Turkey Hunt will occur refuge-wide on April 6-7, 2024. It is recommended that all Refuge users wear applicable hunter orange while on the Refuge during the gun hunts.
  • Camping is permitted only in designated primitive camping areas and in conjunction with on-refuge wildlife-dependent activities. Camping area entrances are marked by signs and boundaries are marked with ORANGE paint. All disturbances, including the use of generators, are prohibited after 10 pm. Campfires are permitted only in camping areas and must be attended. Only downed wood may be used for fires. 

Our Public Use Regulation Brochure provides a comprehensive list of Refuge regulations.

Refer to our geo-referenced map for visitor amenities within the Refuge.

Visit Us

National wildlife refuges can offer a view of some of the most pristine and remote landscapes across the country. When visiting these wild places, please prepare yourself accordingly. Adequate clothing and supplies are essential.

Water levels within Felsenthal NWR can be a deciding factor when planning your trip. Make sure the water is safe for any activities by checking the National Weather Service's website or contact the refuge.

Hunting Information

Fishing Information

Location and Contact Information

      About Us

      This refuge is dissected by an intricate system of rivers, creeks, swamps, and lakes, which supports a wide diversity of native wildlife and plants.

      To learn more about the history, wildlife, habitat, and explore various points-of-interest on the refuge, visit our Storymap: Felsenthal NWR Storymap

      What We Do

      Services
      Kayakers navigating a swamp full of trees and lily pads.

      Some 30 national wildlife refuges  charge visitors a nominal entrance fee (generally $3-$5 daily)  to cover road and facility maintenance.  If you are a regular visitor or would like to visit other public lands, you could save by buying an America the Beautiful Federal...

      Our Species

      Over 1,150 species of plants and animals have been documented on the refuge. This number continues to increase as refuge biologists, researchers from various universities, and volunteer citizen scientists document observations during their time on the refuge. Birders help us monitor the presence of both resident and migratory birds.

      Learn more about contributing to our projects and species below:

      Felsenthal NWR eBird

      Felsenthal NWR iNaturalist

      Wildflower Phenology for Ar Pollinators

      Our Library

      Publications, Brochures, Plans and more