White-tailed Doe and young Buck with velvet antlers standing alert in tall green grass at Holla Bend.

Deer at Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge

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I decided to end the month of June with a trip to Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge here in Arkansas. It had been over 10 years since my last visit, and this trip reminded me just how special this place is. Clearly, the refuge is truly amazing, and I need to make a point to return more often.

Several White-tailed Bucks standing in tall grass along a forest border at sunrise.
A group of White-tailed Bucks lines the edge of the woods, bathed in warm morning sunlight.

I arrived at sunrise, and right away, I noticed the number of White-tailed Deer moving through the area. In fact, I saw several hundred throughout the morning. What made this outing especially memorable, however, was seeing my first fawns of the year. That alone made the trip worthwhile. As a result, I spent most of the morning photographing the deer, focusing especially on the does and their young.

Group of White-tailed Deer in a dewy field with blue mist and forest background at Holla Bend.
A small herd of White-tailed Deer grazes in an open field as morning mist rises from the distance.
White-tailed Doe and young Buck with velvet antlers standing alert in tall green grass at Holla Bend.
A White-tailed Doe and a young Buck in velvet stand side by side in tall grass, both watching closely.

Exploring the Landscape

Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge lies along the Arkansas River in Pope and Yell counties, about five miles downstream from Dardanelle. The Army Corps of Engineers straightened a portion of the river in 1957, which created the island that now forms this 7,000-acre refuge.

White-tailed Buck standing at the edge of a forest in golden morning light at Holla Bend NWR.
A White-tailed Buck pauses near the tree line at Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge during early morning light.

To show the diversity of the refuge, I made sure to capture some photos that showcase the habitat. The refuge features a diverse mix of wetlands, bottomland forests, grasslands, and agricultural fields. Altogether, this variety helps support both wildlife and visitors alike.

White-tailed Deer peering through corn stalks and tall grass at Holla Bend.
A White-tailed Deer peeks out from the cover of thick corn and grass near the edge of a field.

Wildlife Diversity and Visitor Experience

Recognized as an Important Bird Area, Holla Bend plays a vital role as a stopover for migratory birds using the Central and Mississippi flyways. During winter, up to 100,000 ducks and geese take refuge here, while many birds also nest in the spring and summer. Altogether, the refuge supports 236 bird species, amphibians, and even American alligators.

Young White-tailed Buck partially concealed in tall Johnson grass at Holla Bend.
A young White-tailed Buck hides in thick Johnson grass, with only his head visible.

Additionally, visitors often spot Bald eagles year-round, especially during the colder months. For wildlife photographers like me, the refuge offers countless opportunities to photograph a wide range of species. Visitors can explore the area via a self-guided auto tour, several hiking trails, and an observation tower. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also allows limited hunting and fishing under specific regulations.

White-tailed Doe and fawn standing in an open field with morning light on them.
A cautious White-tailed Doe and her fawn stand alert in an open field at sunrise.
White-tailed Doe walking with her fawn in a grassy field during sunrise.
A White-tailed Doe guides her fawn across a sunlit field at Holla Bend.
White-tailed Doe and spotted fawn in tall grass and early morning light at Holla Bend.
A White-tailed Doe stands protectively beside her fawn in soft, filtered morning light.

Looking Ahead

After more than a decade away, it was just great to be back at Holla Bend. The peaceful setting, abundance of wildlife, and rewarding photography made this visit one to remember. Without a doubt, I’ll definitely be returning soon to explore more and capture even more of what this incredible refuge has to offer.

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