11,300 acres of land and water offers food and rest haven for migrating and wintering waterfowl on the Big Mineral Arm of Lake Texoma. Some 300 bird species have been recorded on the refuge that's visited by 135,000 people each year. In addition to huge flocks of migrants passing through each fall and spring, observers may see killdeer, snowy egrets, rails, plovers, and sandpipers in summer; great blue herons and other wading and shore birds in winter; native white-tailed deer and other animals year round. When oil was discovered on the refuge in 1951, development proceeded with care. Significantly, some 200 carefully maintained wells produce vital energy today in harmony with the wildlife that perches on, feeds by, and rests near the well sites. Self-guided driving tour of the refuge. Visitor center has interpretive displays, information, and bird lists. From U.S. 75 between Denison-Sherman, take F.M. 691 west to county airport, F.M. 1417 north 1.5 mi., local signed road west to refuge.
