
Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Memphis, United States
1. Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge
Experience diverse wildlife in over 26,000 acres. The refuge protects bottomland hardwood forests and wetlands.
- Variety of Wildlife: Home to over 250 bird species, including bald eagles, and numerous mammals.
- Wilderness Classroom: Educational programs for all ages throughout the year.
- Hunting Opportunities: Offers waterfowl, small game, and upland game hunting seasons.
2. Mississippi National Wildlife Refuge
Protects a vast network of bottomland hardwood forests, wetlands, and oxbow lakes. Home to many waterfowl species.
- Important Waterfowl Habitat: Provides critical habitat for migrating waterfowl during winter.
- Fishing Opportunities: Offers excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of fish species.
- Wildlife Viewing Towers: Provides wildlife viewing towers and trails for visitor enjoyment.
3. Tanglewood Wildlife Sanctuary
A unique urban oasis offering over 15 miles of hiking trails through diverse habitats.
- Urban Habitat: Offers a rare opportunity to observe wildlife in an urban setting.
- Education and Conservation: Provides educational programs and conservation efforts for the protection of local wildlife.
- Community Involvement: Offers opportunities for community involvement through volunteer programs.
4. Shelby Farms Park
One of the largest urban parks in America with diverse habitats supporting a variety of wildlife.
- Diverse Habitats: Includes forests, wetlands, meadows, and lakes.
- Recreational Opportunities: Offers a variety of recreational activities, including biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
- Community Events: Hosts numerous community events and educational programs throughout the year.
5. Overton Park
A park located in the heart of Memphis with diverse habitats supporting a variety of wildlife.
- Urban Oasis: Offers a peaceful escape from the urban environment.
- Recreational Opportunities: Provides amenities such as tennis courts, golf courses, and playgrounds.
- Community Engagement: Includes the Dixon Gallery & Gardens and the Memphis Zoo for cultural and educational experiences.
6. Germantown Nature Park
A 350-acre park featuring a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows.
- Variety of Habitats: Includes diverse ecosystems such as bottomland hardwood forests, upland oak-hickory woods, and wetlands.
- Recreational Opportunities: Offers hiking trails, bird watching opportunities, and picnic areas.
- Environmental Education: Provides educational programs to promote conservation and environmental awareness.
7. Wolf River Greenway
A 10-mile greenway that follows the Wolf River, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Urban Green Space: Offers a unique green space in an urban setting.
- Recreational Opportunities: Provides opportunities for biking, walking, and running along the greenway.
- Wildlife Habitat: Supports a variety of wildlife due to its diverse habitats and water features.
8. Big Cypress Grove Nature Sanctuary
A 103-acre sanctuary featuring a cypress swamp and diverse habitats supporting a variety of wildlife.
- Cypress Swamp: Features the largest cypress swamp in Memphis.
- Wildlife Viewing: Offers opportunities to observe wildlife such as beavers, otters, and bald eagles.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs and volunteer opportunities for the community.
9. Harper Landing Nature Center
A 160-acre nature center with diverse habitats, offering wildlife viewing and educational opportunities.
- Variety of Habitats: Includes wetlands, forests, and meadows.
- Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe wildlife such as beavers, otters, and various bird species.
- Environmental Education: Offers educational programs and volunteer opportunities for the community.
10. Shelby Woods Park
A park featuring a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows. Home to numerous wildlife species.
- Variety of Habitats: Includes bottomland hardwood forests, wetlands, and meadows.
- Wildlife Viewing: Offers opportunities to observe wildlife such as deer, beavers, and various bird species.
- Recreational Opportunities: Provides amenities such as hiking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields.
11. Baker Shelby Forest State Park
A park featuring diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows. Home to numerous wildlife species.
- Variety of Habitats: Includes bottomland hardwood forests, wetlands, and meadows.
- Wildlife Viewing: Offers opportunities to observe wildlife such as deer, bear, and various bird species.
- Recreational Opportunities: Provides amenities such as hiking trails, camping sites, and picnic areas.
12. Mud Island River Park
A park featuring a miniature river delta model, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Unique Attraction: Features a 1-mile long, 0.5 scale model of the Mississippi River Delta.
- Wildlife Viewing: Offers opportunities to observe wildlife such as herons, egrets, and various waterfowl.
- Education and Recreation: Provides educational programs about the Mississippi River and recreational activities such as biking and picnicking.
13. Audubon Park
A park featuring a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows. Home to numerous wildlife species.
- Variety of Habitats: Includes bottomland hardwood forests, wetlands, and meadows.
- Wildlife Viewing: Offers opportunities to observe wildlife such as deer, beavers, and various bird species.
- Community Engagement: Includes athletic fields, a playground, and picnic areas for community use.
14. Lauderdale Landing Park
A park featuring a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows. Home to numerous wildlife species.
- Variety of Habitats: Includes bottomland hardwood forests, wetlands, and meadows.
- Wildlife Viewing: Offers opportunities to observe wildlife such as deer, beavers, and various bird species.
- Recreational Opportunities: Provides amenities such as hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
15. Wolf River Greenway - East Shelby Park
A portion of the Wolf River Greenway located within East Shelby Park, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Urban Green Space: Offers a unique green space in an urban setting.
- Recreational Opportunities: Provides opportunities for biking, walking, and running along the greenway.
- Wildlife Habitat: Supports a variety of wildlife due to its diverse habitats and water features.