Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge

Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1985 and is 26,997 acres (June 2025). It has the largest tract of bottomland hardwood forest in Tennessee, and lies in the Lower Mississippi River floodplain. Eight miles of the refuge’s western boundary adjoins the Mississippi River. The refuge gets its name from the Chickasaw Indians, who historically occupied portions of west Tennessee, including Lauderdale County in which the refuge is located.

From Ripley and Highway 51, proceed approximately 6 miles north on Edith-Central Road (becomes Edith-Nankipoo after passing through 4-way stop at Edith). Turn left on Hobe Webb road and proceed approximately 1.5 miles to first road on the right. Turn right on Sand Bluff Road and proceed to the bottom of bluff. Refuge headquarters will be on the left.