Located in the center of the 11B unit this refuge is truly a unique opportunity in the state. Non residents are allowed to hunt here but often there are only a couple of permits available each year. The entire unit is public land, and there is decent access throughout. Overall there is a lot of water in this refuge, and the waterfowl hunting seems to be the more notable draw to the area, but for folks looking to plan a whitetail hunt in South Dakota, and don’t mind hunting in a smaller condensed area, there is excellent habitat for deer throughout its entirety.

Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge is a 16,000+ acre wildlife haven that holds a fantastic population of Whitetail deer, Pheasant, Sharptail Grouse, and many different species of waterfowl during the year along with many other small mammals and birds.

The LaCreek Wildlife Refuge, a 16,000+ acre marsh located in the center of the unit makes for large variations in the terrain to expect. Overall there is little change in elevation and you can expect to encounter mostly rolling terrain although depending on where you are at will determine what type of soil is under your boots, as well as what kind of grass and vegetation you will encounter.

The Lacreek Wildlife Refuge which stretches across over 16,000 acres in the unit and is essentially a swamp created by the Lake Creek which runs through the entire length of the refuge spilling into lake after lake as it makes its way through the refuge. This riverbottom has scattered timber including Cottonwood, American Elm, Green Ash, and Bur Oak lining the edges of much of the water system. As you move through the riparian zone you will find a healthy mix of marsh vegetation to include cattails and such and different prairie grass and wildflowers.

In order to access the refuge you will need to travel to the little town of Tuthill, SD. Here you will travel west which will take you to the entrance of the refuge approximately 1 mile out of town. As you enter the refuge there are established roads as well as some two tracks scattered throughout that will allow access into just about every corner of the unit you may be interested in hunting, access is easier the later in the year when the marshes freeze over, and the ground is not so wet and muddy.

There are no public camping locations in the unit. If you are planning on hunting this area, the most notable location would likely be Martin, SD which is located northwest of the refuge along highway 18. Here you will find fuel, groceries, and lodging.