Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
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NatureOutdoorHiking
Overview
The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is a 35,000-acre (140 km2) national wildlife refuge (NWR) located along the Tennessee River near Decatur, Alabama. Named after Major General Joseph Wheeler, it was established to provide a habitat for wintering and migrating birds in the Eastern United States.
Practical Info
MonClosed
Tue–Sat9:00 AM–4:00 PM
SunClosed
Suggested DurationAbout 1-2 hours
Best TimeWinter (November to February) is the peak season when thousands of Sandhill Cranes, Whooping Cranes, and waterfowl over-winter here. Early mornings or dusks offer the highest bird activity.
Getting ThereLocated just off I-65 east of Decatur. Take Exit 334 on I-65, drive west on AL-67 North for about 2 miles to reach the center, which features free visitor parking.
Travel Tips
- This refuge is one of the premier places in eastern North America to observe endangered whooping cranes and tens of thousands of wintering sandhill cranes.
- A climate-controlled observation building behind the visitor center provides complimentary viewing scopes and excellent wetland birdwatching opportunities.
- The refuge is free to visit. Please remain quiet on the boardwalk trails and never disturb or chase wildlife.
Reviews
Positive
- Free high-quality telescopes, massive glass pavilion watching tens of thousands of geese and cranes—soul-stirring educational experience
- Pure natural tranquil ecological paradise
Heads up
- In scorching summer (July-August), most migratory birds have migrated north, wetlands have abundant mosquitoes, mostly empty marshes