Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is a tallgrass prairie and oak savanna reconstruction project located about twenty miles east of Des Moines. The Refuge offers scenic views of over 5,000 acres of tallgrass prairie year-round. It is also home to herds of bison and elk, grassland birds, and numerous other wildlife species. The Prairie Learning and Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits, the Prairie Point Nature Store, and showings of our award-winning film, “Return to Wildness”. Several paved trails are available to visitors in addition to the auto tour route through the bison and elk enclosure. Free public programs and volunteer opportunities are also available for all ages throughout the year.