Watercress Darter National Wildlife Refuge

Jun 20th, 2023

Can't actually see anything and can't be on property without express permission for research reasons only. There are a couple historical buildings on site as well, but it's posted no pictures or trespassing. There's only a small off road parking spot with a barely maintained information board. No bathrooms.
Feb 20th, 2023

Jan 23rd, 2023

Dec 4th, 2022

aka Thomas Springs. Not really a public park (anymore) but the smallest wildlife refuge in the entire US. The ponds in the refuge are habitat for the endangered Watercress Darter. Federal law prohibits fishing and seining in those ponds. The boardwalks are in utter disrepair and access to the ponds is overgrown, muddy, and any disturbance of the darter habitat carries steep fines. Best contact Fish and Wildlife or the Freshwater Land Trust to inquire about a guided trip. Make plans for a trip in spring to see the male darters in full color and remember the only legal way to see the darters in the refuge is for scientific purposes with a written permission.
Sep 5th, 2022