This area has many different habitat types and is an important gathering and resting area for many species of shorebirds and waterfowl. It is also a stopover area for many species of passerines (including warblers and sparrows). Over 270 species of birds have been seen in or near the area.

From Waterloo take U.S. Highway 63 North to State Highway 93 and take this highway to Tripoli. Continue across County Road V43 at the stop sign in Tripoli. Follow this paved road about 2 or 3 miles to the south entrance to the area (just past the second bridge). Turn left into the park. There are several more entrances (two on the east side, one on the north and two on the west) to the area as you drive around the marsh on gravel roads.