Mississippi Sandhill Crane Wildlife Refuge

See the endangered Mississippi sandhill cranes in their natural habitat.

The Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge, located in Gautier, Mississippi, is part of a wet pine savanna ecosystem. The refuge provides sanctuary to various endangered species, including the Mississippi sandhill crane. Other wildlife you may see include the dusky gopher frogs, fence lizards, Henslow's sparrows, and more. Activities you can do at the refuge include hiking, birding, walking, picnicking, and more. They also offer two-hour guided tours, but be sure to reserve your spot ahead of time because space is limited.

Spring is arguably the best time to visit the refuge because that is when the chicks have hatched, and there are plentiful wildflowers and foliage along the nature trails. Visitors are welcome to recreate in the refuge during the day. The refuge visitor center is open from 9 AM to 3 PM Thursday through Saturday and is closed on all federal holidays. The entrance gate at Crane Lane closes at sunset. If you're visiting the gulf coast and love nature, check out the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge.