Summary
The refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including migratory birds, deer, turkey, and a variety of fish species.
One of the main reasons to visit Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge is for wildlife viewing. Visitors can observe a range of species in their natural habitat, including bald eagles, great blue herons, and American white pelicans. The refuge also offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and hunting during designated seasons.
Specific points of interest at Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge include the 1.5-mile nature trail, which provides access to wetlands and a viewing platform for birdwatching. The refuge also has a designated fishing area and boat launch for visitors who wish to fish.
Interesting facts about Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge include its history as a former hunting club that was converted to a wildlife refuge in the 1970s. The refuge is also one of the few places in Missouri where American white pelicans can be seen.
The best time of year to visit Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge is during the fall and winter months when migratory birds are present. However, the refuge is open year-round and offers different opportunities for visitors depending on the season.
Overall, Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge is a unique and beautiful area that offers visitors opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing.
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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.
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