Bean Switch Refuge

Directions and Description

Site Directions: From Highway 45E in Greenfield, travel east on Broad St (just north of Shell station downtown) for approximately 4.0 miles to Hearn Rd on the left. Turn left on Hearn Rd and in 100m makes a left on McKelvey Rd. Follow straight for 1.2 miles where the road turns into a single-lane gravel road. Continue around the house for 0.1 miles to the entrance to Bean Switch Refuge.  Lat: 36.203841°N Long: --88.776555°W      

The Refuge is open only during daylight hours.  Licensing fees may apply.

The  Refuge is open to foot traffic only when gates are closed.   The entrance gates will be open during hunting seasons, but may be closed without prior notice for safety and management reasons.  

The refuge is closed to all forms of use and trespass from 15 Nov – Last day in Feb.

Contact Information: Region 1 Office, Phone:  731-423-5725,  Toll-Free:  800-372-3928, E-mail the office, TWRA Area Manager: Robert J. Lewis 1-731-749-5587

Site Description: Bean Switch Refuge is located in Weakley County and is approximately 572 acres and is a combination of bottomland hardwood forest, cypress and willow swamp, and cropland.    After passing the entrance, the gravel road travels approximately 0.75 miles to a dead end. Along the road, visitors travel through cypress and willow swamps where a diversity of plants, insects, and other wildlife can be seen. At 0.4 miles from the gate, there is a low spot (dip) in the road where water may be flowing. Proceed cautiously if there is water in the dip.  you will find shrubby wetlands and mature forest habitats as well the Refuge. 

Wildlife to Watch: The plant and habitat diversity at this site leads to an interesting mix of wildlife. Wading birds, such as the Great Egret and Great Blue Heron, can be found along the roadsides and ditches, while turkeys can be found on higher ground. Reptiles are commonly seen when the area is wet. 

Regulations

Closed to all forms of use and trespass from Nov. 15 - the last day of Feb.

CWD Carcass Transportation Regulations Apply

Big Game, Small Game and Trapping:  same as statewide seasons, except as noted. 

Dove, Waterfowl, and Fall Turkey hunting :Closed

Turkey - One non-quota hunt: April 13 – May 7, 2025. One bearded turkey counts toward the statewide bag limit.

Turkey (Young Sportsman) - Same as statewide season.