There are national wildlife refuges throughout the U.S. However, there’s only one named for a president, and it is right here in Mississippi! Yep, Mississippi’s Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge is the only refuge that bears the name of a former president. That’s not its only noteworthy feature, though. It’s also part of a complex of refuges, making for an easily accessible adventure.
Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge in Yazoo City is the only national wildlife refuge named for a president.
If ever there were a president deserving of the honor, it’s Roosevelt. He has done more for American conservation than any other president.
Some might wonder why a refuge named for Roosevelt is here in Mississippi, and the answer is a very simple one: Mississippi is where Roosevelt’s famous bear hunt – the one which resulted in the creation of the teddy bear – took place.
The historic hunt is commemorated throughout the region with signage, teddy bear statues, and themed events, like the Great Delta Bear Affair.
The Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge Complex is another way the president’s legacy lives on in Mississippi.
A national wildlife refuge complex is a grouping of two or more refuges.
The Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge Complex is comprised of nine refuges, including its namesake!
One of the newer refuges, the Holt Collier National Wildlife Refuge was established in 2004. It’s named for Holt Collier, the hunting guide who led Roosevelt on the history-making hunt.
Regardless of which refuge you visit, you'll find plenty of things to do outdoors, including hiking and wildlife viewing.
Aside from the refuges mentioned above, the complex includes: Hillside National Wildlife Refuge, Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge, Morgan Brake National Wildlife Refuge, Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge, and Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge. It also includes the Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuge in Louisiana. Want to know more about this national wildlife refuge complex? Check out the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website. You can also give the complex a call at (662) 839-2638.
So, did you know about the Theodore Roosevelt Wildlife Refuge Complex? Ever visited? If so, what’d you think? Is it a great place for some outdoor fun? Know of another great outdoor destination? Whatever it is, tell us.
Want to know more about the state's connection to the former president? Plan a visit to Rolling Fork, a charming rural town in Mississippi with close ties to Teddy Roosevelt's famous bear hunt.
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