Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 7, 2025
Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge is located in the southwestern part of South Dakota and covers over 16,000 acres of land.
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Summary
The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including pronghorn antelope, mule deer, coyotes, and over 250 species of birds.
One of the main reasons to visit Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge is for birdwatching. The refuge is part of the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network and is a stopover point for thousands of shorebirds during their migration. Other activities visitors can enjoy include hiking, fishing, and hunting.
Some points of interest to see while visiting Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge include the Prairie Dog Town, where visitors can observe and learn about these social animals. The refuge also has several scenic drives, including the Lakeside Drive, where visitors can enjoy views of the refuge's many lakes.
An interesting fact about Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge is that it was established in 1935 to provide a breeding ground and sanctuary for migratory birds and other wildlife. Another interesting fact is that the refuge is home to one of the largest natural lakes in South Dakota, Lacreek Lake.
The best time of year to visit Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge depends on visitors' interests. Spring and fall are the best times for birdwatching, while summer is the best time for fishing and hiking. Hunting is allowed during the fall and winter months. Visitors should check the refuge's website for more information on activities and seasonal closures.
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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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