U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Old Soudan Wildlife Management Area

Description

Old Soudan WMA is located across the water from Merifield WMA where yet another old road emerges from the depths of Kerr (Buggs Island) Lake. Although only a few hundred yards apart, the character of Old Soudan WMA is quite different. Here the woods are more open and the lakeshore is more easily accessible to the visitor. The hardwoods along the entry road give way to numerous meadows complementing the dense pines across the way.

Follow the entry road to the edge of the water into a quiet cove where ospreys sail overhead and a variety of waterfowl dabble away the winter. Check the neighboring woodlands for chipping northern cardinals and the raucous calls of both American and fish crows. Out in the open meadows, monarchs hang lazily above the goldenrod, while indigo buntings flush at your approach. Numerous opportunities exist along the muddy banks of the river or along the edge of the forest for surprising finds and we’re sure you’ll enjoy searching for them.

Directions

From Merifield WMA, return north on Old National Highway for 2.0 miles to Burlington Drive. Turn left and go south 0.8 miles to US 15. Turn left (south) for 3.4 miles to Stateline Road. Turn left and continue east for 0.6 miles to Rt. 822/Mistletoe Lane. Turn left and go 1.4 miles to the WMA at the end of the road.