Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Tours and Activities

Discover a sanctuary for birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals on Maryland's Eastern Shore in this beautiful area rich in wetlands, forest and meadows.

The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic environmental centre with over 28,000 acres (113 square kilometres) of freshwater reservoirs, wetlands, open fields and forests. Enjoy a fun day outdoors, get close to amazing wildlife and photograph the beautiful scenery.

In 1933 the Blackwater Refuge was created as a sanctuary for birds migrating along the critical migration highway called the Atlantic Flyway. The name “blackwater” comes from the Blackwater River and the Little Blackwater River, which feed the refuge area. These rivers have tea-colored waters darkened by the tannin that is picked up as the water drains through peat soil in the marshes. Enjoy the stunning natural scenery, home for over 250 bird species, 35 species of reptiles and amphibians, numerous mammals and more than 100 species of threatened and endangered plants.

Learn about the amazing bald eagle, the most famous wildlife resident in the Blackwater Wildlife Refuge. The refuge hosts the largest breeding population of bald eagles on the East Coast north of Florida. View the live camera feed constantly monitoring an eagle’s nest on the Friends of Blackwater website.

The main attraction of the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is Wildlife Drive, a paved road that you can explore by car, bike or foot. Follow this route along the Blackwater River. Discover the amazing views and see interesting examples of the local wildlife.

While you are visiting the refuge, make sure you stop off at the visitor centre on Key Wallace Drive. Here you’ll find great wildlife exhibits, including an authentic eagle's nest, a lovely butterfly garden, a book and gift shop and plenty of useful information including maps and brochures. On the second floor, discover the Wild Birds Unlimited Pathways to Nature Observatory, which features bird exhibits and scopes for viewing the Blackwater River.

The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is located about 12 miles (19 kilometres) south of Cambridge, Maryland in Dorchester County. Visit to enjoy a fun and educational day for the whole family.