Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

Welcome to Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge located just east of the Iowa State Capitol.

Refuge History: Much of the landscape in and around Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge was carved out by glacial retreat at the end of the last ice age. The legislation establishing this refuge was signed into law by President George Herbert Walker Bush on September 5, 1990 in order to help restore the oak savanna and tallgrass prairie.

Flora and Fauna: Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge helps protect the home of numerous plant and animals species. Some of the plants that grow inside the refuge boundaries include oaks, sedges, wetland wildflowers, and prairie cord grass. Some of the wild animals who call this place home include badgers, beavers, bison, elk, endangered Indiana bats, owls, sedge wrens, bobolinks, and meadowlarks. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors this refuge boasts three nature trails, a 4.5 mile auto tour, and so much more. Come on out and explore.