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Middle Mississippi National Wildlife Refuge
Monroe, Randolph, and Jackson Counties (IL) and Jefferson County (MO) | 1,224 acres (Rockwood Island only)
Type: Natural Area
Owned by: US Fish and Wildlife Service
Hours: Open Sunrise to Sunset
Location and Directions: All seven divisions of the Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge are frequently flooded affording big river fishes access to the Missouri and Illinois floodplain. It is important to check the Mississippi River stage at the Chester, Illinois gauge before heading to the refuge as most of our divisions become inaccessible by land beginning at a river stage of 25 feet. Visit or call the refuge to get current conditions. Always stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing, convey your outdoor adventure plans to friends and family, and pack sunscreen and insect repellant.
Rockwood Island is accessible by boat only.
Facilities: Visit the US Fish and Wildlife Service’s website for more information.
Regulations: The refuge is open for public use from sunrise to sunset.
Refuge hunting and fishing regulations generally follow Missouri and Illinois state seasons and regulations.
General public use Rules and Regulations are found here.
Overview
Working in partnership with the American Land Conservancy, HeartLands Conservancy has acquired nearly 1,000 acres on Rockwood Island. This property has subsequently been deeded over to the US Fish & Wildlife Service for inclusion in the Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge. https://www.fws.gov/refuge/middle_mississippi_river/