Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1946 as an overlay of a portion of the Big Mineral arm of Lake Texoma in north-central Texas. Consisting of about 12,000 acres, the refuge provides a variety of habitats for birds and wildlife.
Canada, snow, white-fronted, and Ross' geese along with pintail, mallard, gadwall and other ducks use refuge impoundments and fields as stop-over and wintering grounds. Just 75 miles north of Dallas where the Red River etches the boundary between Oklahoma and Texas, migratory birds by the thousands take up winter quarters or refuel for long journeys. Some species spend the entire winter 'loafing' on the refuge, including, Ross?s, Greater White-fronted and Canada Geese. At times, as many as 10,000 geese can be seen in one field. Ducks such as mallards, northern shovelers, green-winged teal, and northern pintail are commonly seen on refuge waters during fall and winter months.
Although they take top billing, birds are not the only attraction. Colorful wildflowers and prairie grasses provide seasonal food and shelter for wildlife. Butterflies, meadowlarks, and dragonflies flutter through the summer landscape. Bottomland hardwoods along the creeks attract a variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer, bobcats, river otters, turtles, and fox squirrels. Listen for the howl of coyotes at dusk.
On national wildlife refuges, wildlife comes first. The establishment purpose of the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge is to provide and manage habitat for migratory birds, wildlife, and plants native to this area, and to provide opportunity for outdoor recreation that is compatible. The refuge offers wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities, including wildlife observation and photography, fishing, hunting, and hiking, and educational programs.
Wildlife Watching - Wildlife observation is the most popular activity at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge. The four mile Wildlife Drive with adjacent wetlands, croplands, and open water is usually the best place to see birds. In more forested areas deer, wild turkey, a variety of hawks, and other forest-dwellers are common.
Nature Trails - See wildlife in their backcountry habitats along one of several hiking trails.
Fishing - The refuge is a popular destination for sports fishermen seeking catfish, sand bass, stripers, crappie, and pan fish year-round. Come try your luck!
Hunting - Enjoy a public lands hunt. White-tailed deer, feral hog, turkey and small game (including dove, squirrel, and rabbit) hunt opportunities are seasonally available to the public.
Interpretation - For the National Wildlife Refuge System, interpretation means finding ways to connect our visitors with our resources. Come learn about some of the wonders of the natural world!
Environmental Education - The refuge offers a variety of teaching and learning opportunities provided by staff and volunteers throughout the year.