Important Note: First Section of Wildlife Drive Closed Until November

Credit: USFWS Refuge Bird Walk

The National Wildlife Refuge System is the only collection of federal public lands where wildlife is supposed to come first, but that doesn't mean the public isn't welcome. In fact, the staff and volunteers at many refuges go out of their way to find ways in which the public can enjoy these lands.

At Blackwater Refuge, the prime visitor attraction is the Wildlife Drive, which visitors can drive, walk and cycle on in order to get close to the local wildlife. In addition, the Refuge has four land trails and three paddling trails, as well as hunting/fishing/crabbing opportunities. Finally, the Refuge staff and volunteers also offer a variety of environmental educational opportunities for young people at both the Refuge Visitor Center and also at the Refuge environmental education building, located at the entrance to the Wildlife Drive. Take a moment to explore the public-use information in this section by using the navigation options in the left-hand panel.

Throughout the year, the staff and volunteers at Blackwater Refuge host a variety of festivals, open houses, and bird walks. Be sure to visit the Calendar page to see a list of upcoming events. The most popular event at the Refuge during the year is the Eagle Festival in March.

Special Note: Pets are not allowed out of vehicles on the Wildlife Drive or on the trails, even if on a leash. This policy is to protect the endangered ground-feeding Delmarva fox squirrels. Pets can be walked in the area around the Visitor Center (in the parking lot).

If you need assistance while at the Refuge, stop by the Visitor Center or call 410-228-2677 (TDD/800-735-2258) to speak to a staff member or volunteer.

Credit: USFWS Eagle Festival - Birds of Prey Education