Description - Each Wildlife Refuge in Tennessee provides a unique opportunity for the public to see rare and endangered species in their natural habitat. Encroaching development on natural lands in North America has made these reserves necessary to protect a variety of animal and bird species. Species that live on the Refuges differ with the seasons and migration patterns. Please see individual descriptions for more detail.
- Most of the National Wildlife Refuges in Tennessee have limited facilities and services. At most of these sites visitors will find a Visitor Center, gravel roads, restrooms, hiking trails and observatory towers.
Recreation - These refuges offer opportunities for wildlife observation, auto touring, photography, hunting fishing and hiking.
Climate - Tennessee has a temperate climate with short, mild winters. The average annual snowfall for the state is 12 inches. Spring comes in early March bringing flowering trees and shrubs, and warmer weather. Spring temperatures average between 45 and 70 degrees F. Summers full force arrives in the region by mid May, bringing warm weather and higher humidity. Cooling fall temperatures bring crisp air and brilliant foliage colors. Mid to late October is a good time to visit the region to experience the fall color change.
All refuges but the Cross Creeks Refuge are located in the Western Travel Region of Tennessee. Cross Creeks Refuge is located in the Middle Travel Region.