Rex Hancock Black Swamp Wildlife Management Area
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Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Rex Hancock Black Swamp Wildlife Management Area, located in the state of Arkansas, is a diverse and unique wetland habitat that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and biodiversity of the region.
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Summary
There are several reasons to visit the area, including its abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and recreational opportunities.
One of the main points of interest in the area is the Black Swamp itself, a large wetland complex that is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the swamp by foot or by canoe, and may encounter alligators, waterfowl, and other wildlife.
Other notable features of the area include the Cypress Bayou Wildlife Drive, a scenic route that takes visitors through the heart of the swamp, and the Grand Lake Dam, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities.
Interesting facts about the area include its designation as a National Natural Landmark, which recognizes its unique ecological significance, and its role as a critical stopover for migratory birds traveling along the Mississippi Flyway.
The best time of year to visit Rex Hancock Black Swamp Wildlife Management Area is in the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and wildlife activity is at its peak. Visitors should be prepared for hot, humid conditions in the summer, and may find the area less accessible in the winter due to flooding and other weather-related challenges.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Benson Creek Natural Area Wildlife Management Area
Sheffield Nelson Dagmar Wildlife Management Area
Greenlee Park
Natural Area Cache River
Bayou Des Arc Wildlife Management Area