Visiting Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

If you're planning a visit to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), a couple quick tips: The big waterfowl populations are seen in late October, November, and December, and the large snow geese populations don't normally arrive until it becomes very cold. Bald eagles nest from January through July, but can be seen throughout the year at the Refuge. During the colder months, eagles from the north often come down to Blackwater NWR to find food, so our eagle population increases during that time. Visitors who come during the warmer months are advised to bring insect repellent.

Check out the following sections of our website for additional information:

  • Wildlife: Information about the various wildlife species you can spot at the Refuge.
  • Public Use: Information about the Visitor Center, Wildlife Drive, land and water trails, and hunting, fishing, crabbing, and cycling opportunities.
  • Frequently Asked Questions: Information about entrance fees, driving directions to the Refuge, and local visitors' services.
  • Resources: Links to bird lists and websites that can provide information about lodging and restaurants in Cambridge, Maryland (the largest town near Blackwater NWR).
  • Gallery: Photographs and videos taken by visitors to the Refuge.
  • Calendar of Events: Information about events throughout the year.

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, feel free to contact the Friends of Blackwater using our Contact page or contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Blackwater NWR staff directly at:

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
2145 Key Wallace Drive
Cambridge, Maryland 21613
Telephone: 410-228-2677
(Hearing-impaired visitors may call the Maryland Relay Service
at TDD/800-735-2258 voice)