Neosho Wildlife Area

The Neosho River borders on the west side of the area.  One of the area roads leads to the river's edge, where there is a boat ramp.  Gar can often be seen feeding near the river's surface in summer. There are two species of this menacing, snouted fish in the river: longnosed and shortnosed. Spotted gar, a third variety, surfaces in the refuge pools.

The managed marshes and the riparian woodlands provide habitat for diverse species of wildlife, particularly migrating waterfowl. Thousands of shorebirds, geese, and ducks are present during spring and fall migrations. Commonly seen ducks are green-winged and blue-winged teal, mallards, northern pintails, northern shovelers, buffleheads, and common goldeneyes.  Rafts of American white pelicans may sometimes be seen feeding in the larger pools.  Between November and March, look for bald eagles perched in bare winter trees. Spring brings a variety of warblers, wrens, and vireos to the woodlands. Wood ducks nest in the area in summer. Pileated woodpeckers can be heard year-round in the mature woodlands. Search the marshes for muskrats and beavers. Wild turkeys and white-tailed deer are frequently seen. Southern flying squirrels inhabit the trees around Flatrock Creek but are seldom seen. A large variety of turtles may be seen here.

Primitive camping only.

No developed trails, but you may walk the dikes for views of the inner marsh areas.

Click the icon to find a birding list for Neosho County.

Click the icon to locate nearby Geocaches

Ownership: The entity responsible for management of Neosho Wildlife Area is the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.  Contact them at (620) 431-0380 if you have specific questions about use or management of this site.
You may download the KDWP brochure on Neosho Wildlife Area from their web site.

3,246 acres

Questions or comments about Natural Kansas may be directed to Jim Mason