Welcome to Cahaba River NWR
Credit: USFWS
Cahaba River NWR is one of nation's newest National Wildlife Refuges, the 540th in fact. Established September 25, 2002 for the purpose of protecting and managing a unique section of the Cahaba River and land adjacent to it. Cahaba River NWR is home to five federally listed species including the Cahaba shiner, goldline darter, round rocksnail, and cylindrical lioplax snail.
The Cahaba River itself stretches for almost 200 miles and is Alabama's longest free-flowing stream. The river currently supports 64 rare and imperiled plant and animal species, 13 of which are found nowhere else in the world. The river has more fish species at 131 than any other river it's size in North America. Over seven miles of the Cahaba lie within the approved acquisition boundary. The rolling uplands surrounding the river are forested with mountain longleaf and loblolly pines. Mixed upland hardwood species line ravines and the river's edge.
The largest known stand of the imperiled shoals lily (known locally as the Cahaba lily) also occurs within the Refuge. During summer months, this beautiful plant blooms and people come from across the region to view this magnificent display of nature. There is even an annual Cahaba lily festival that draws thousands of visitors to the area the last Saturday in May.
Getting There . . .
Cahaba River NWR is located in Bibb County, Alabama, approximately six miles east of West Blockton on County road 24. River access is provided by a gravel road on the south (right) side of Bibb County Road 24 approximately 250 yards past the refuge entrance sign.
Latest Beginning January 27th, repair work will begin on the section of River Road from the gravel parking area south to the gate at Caffee Creek. We will be graveling this section of road and making drainage repairs. Expect frequent closures of this portion of the road through March 1st. Watch for large truck traffic along all of River Road. Updated boundary maps have been added to the Maps section here.
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