Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge

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Wildlife refuge · Southwest · 112 mi away

Restored Patoka bottomlands: sloughs, cypress plantings and one of the state's richest wetland bird lists.

Bottomland hardwoodMoist soil unitRiver slough

Map

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38.3958, -87.2833

38.3958, -87.2833 · pinch or scroll to zoomDirections

Plan your visit

HoursSunrise to sunset · open now

FeeFree

Best seasonsApril to October, with peak colour in mid-October

ParkingMain lot at the entrance or visitor contact station

EntrancesMain entrance at Oakland City

RestroomsYes

PetsNo pets

AccessibilityAccessible restrooms near main parking, Paved or firm-surface route available

AmenitiesRefuge office, Observation deck, Canoe access

Official infoWebsite

Trails

EasySnakey Point Marsh Trail · 1.5 mi

EasyColumbia Mine Overlook · 0.4 mi

Likely to see hereGuide

Challenges here

Wetlands mini-lesson and five observations

Read the wetland lesson, then log five wetland species or habitat notes.

A time-limited challenge that follows the wave north through Indiana.

Offline pack

Map, trails and species list

17 MB · not downloaded

Safety and etiquette

Check seasonal closures and weather before you set out.

Ticks and poison ivy are common off-trail.

Stay on trail, keep your distance, and take only notes and photographs. If an animal changes its behaviour because of you, you are too close.

Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service · Reviewed July 2026