Lake Isom National Wildlife Refuge was established as an inviolate sanctuary for wintering waterfowl in 1938 by presidential proclamation. Lake Isom is the oldest refuge in Tennessee and encompasses some 1,850 acres of migratory bird habitat surrounding Lake Isom. The proximity of Lake Isom to the Mississippi river has always made the area a major stopover and wintering ground for migratory waterfowl.

Refuge Headquarters are located approximately 15 miles southwest of Union City Tennessee. From union City take highway 22 north apprximately 15 miles, turn right on highway 157, refuge headquarters is located exactly 1 mile on left. Lake Isom is located approximately 3 miles south of Reelfoot Lake.