Its name comes from some of the last remaining montane longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) ecosystem in the southeastern United States which the refuge protects.

The Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge is located on the former military training grounds of Fort McClellan.

The refuge is located on the Choccolocco mountain range, in the southern portion of Ridge and Valley of the Appalachians.

[citation needed] Plant species warranting special attention include the longleaf pine (Pinus palustris), the white fringeless orchid, and 11 species of flora which are considered rare.

Additionally, part of the reserve is closed to the general public pending environmental cleanup.