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Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge
61389 Hwy. 434
Lacombe, LA 70445
Tel: (985) 882-2000
and
This federal wildlife refuge is 15,000 acres of pine flatwoods and coastal marsh with a diverse habitat, a wonderful example of the natural coastline of Lake Pontchartrain. The refuge features nature trails and outdoor recreational facilities, and is home to hundreds of bird species, including the rare red-cockaded woodpecker, bald eagles and wading birds. As such, this National Wildlife Refuge is a favorite birding destination for aficionados across the United States.
The grounds are open Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. The Bayou Lacombe Visitor Center and main offices are open Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Walking trail brochures are available that provide site background for your self-guided adventure.
The Big Branch Marsh NWR and Bayou Lacombe Visitor Center offer a variety of educational, nature-focused programs for all ages, for free. Visit their website or Facebook page for information on programs currently being offered.
USFWS Photos of historic Bayou Gardens Camellias, Japanese Magnolias and Indian Hawthorne.
Blooming Taiwanese cherry photo by Beth Schwander.
Recurring monthly on the 1st Saturday
Join the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuge on the first Saturday of each month for Service Saturdays, an opportunity to preserve, protect and enjoy nature. The work... Read More
October 14, 2023
Join the Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges, Inc. in a celebration of National Wildlife Refuge Week (Oct. 8-14) with Wild Things, returning for the first time since 2019, on... Read More
October 27, 2023
Join refuge staff for this FREE, fun-filled educational program on October 27. Everyone is welcome but programs are geared for home-schoolers ages 12 and under (K - 8th grade).... Read More
Recurring monthly on the 1st
Join the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuge staff for a free, fun-filled educational program for young children 0 - 6 years old. Learn about native animals, create nature... Read More
Recurring monthly on the 1st
Join the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuge staff for a free, fun-filled educational program for young children 0 - 6 years old. Learn about native animals, create nature... Read More
December 9, 2023
The Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges’ Bayou Lacombe Visitor Center is expecting a visit from Santa Claus on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. Admission,... Read More
