Join Audubon Society of Omaha for a fun filled family friendly day at Desoto NWR! Meet us at the Visitors Center at 9am for both scheduled activities and opportunities for independent exploration. $3 daily entry fee per vehicle.

Scheduled Activities:
9:15am Ranger talk in the theatre
9:45am Guided bird watching at the viewing windows on the lake and over at the bird feeder station.

Self Directed Activities:
-Inside the Visitors Center enjoy the wildlife exhibits, explore The Bertrand Museum and stop by the gift shop.
-A migratory bird game will be set up throughout the visitors center for children to play.
-Do some more bird watching over Desoto Lake.
-Feel free to bring your own snacks or lunch to eat in the multi-purpose room.
-Leave some time to drive the refuge auto tour to the Bob Star Wildlife Overlook viewing blind to spot the eagle nest and possibly catch some additional waterfowl on the lake.
-Hike any of the trails as weather permits.

While many activities are indoors, do wear comfortable footwear and dress in layers for the weather. Consider bringing water, snacks and lunch. Indoor restrooms available at the visitors center, outdoor restrooms available near Cottonwood trailhead. Don't forget binoculars!

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is located about 30 miles north of Omaha in Missouri Valley. The refuge provides essential habitat for resident, migratory and endangered bird species that rely on floodplain forest, grassland, wetland, sandbar and riverine habitats. The site offers a unique opportunity to see this section of the Missouri River, plus get a glimpse of what pre-settlement Iowa and Nebraska may have looked like. In addition to nature study and bird watching, DeSoto NWR is also home to an archeological collection of artifacts excavated from the buried wreck of the Steamboat Bertrand.

Bring your family, friends and binoculars and spend the day with us!

Photo: Larry Koester