Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge

Attractions - Noxubee NWR is a refuge rich in wildlife, habitat and history.
Before Government ownership, the land area within the refuge was intensively farmed and over grazed. After years of proper land stewardship, Noxubee is now an excellent example of forest and wildlife management. This change has caused a return of bountiful wildlife populations and a progression toward restoration of the pine and hardwood forest types that were so devastated in the early 1900's. The refuge provides needed habitat protection for the extremely valuable, rapidly disappearing bottomland hardwood forest communities.

Approximately 42,500 acres of the refuge is comprised of bottomland and upland woodlands. These forest lands are occupied by a variety of game species including quail, deer, and turkey. The endangered red-cockaded woodpecker relies on the refuge for its existence in east-central Mississippi. In addition, many neotropical species greatly benefit from the Noxubee forests. Four green-timber reservoirs, two lakes, 16 small impoundment's, and assorted wetland areas provide important habitat for the wood stork, American alligator, bald eagle and wintering waterfowl. The Morgan Hill overlook sits atop Morgan Hill and provides perhaps one of the best vistas on the refuge. From the platform, visitors will be greeted by a panoramic view of 600-acre Loakfoma Lake.

Recreation - Several foot trails provide views of wildlife habitats and access to observation points. The Morgan Hill Overlook , Goose Overlook, Bluff Lake Boardwalk and Refuge Headquarters are all wheelchair accessible. Hunting of certain species is permitted in designated areas. Sport fishing is permitted in designated areas during certain times of the year.

Climate - Mississippi lies mainly in the subtropics. The climate is mild with the coldest months experiencing low temperatures near 40 degrees F. Summer temperatures frequently reach 100 degrees F, with coastal breezes providing cooling relief. Humidity is highest in August and September reaching an average close to 90%. The highest rainfall comes during the spring months, but December and January are wet, too. Expect temperatures in the northeastern region to be somewhat cooler than the rest of the state.

Location - The Noxubee NWR is located in east-central Mississippi, near Brooksville.