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Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge

Tybee Island, Georgia · Chatham County

Wassaw, one of Georgia's coastal barrier islands, was designated a National Wildlife Refuge on October 20, 1969. Unlike many of Georgia's Golden Isles, little development and few management practices have modified Wassaw's primitive character. The 10,053-acre refuge includes beaches with rolling dunes, live oak and sla…

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About Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge

Wassaw, one of Georgia's coastal barrier islands, was designated a National Wildlife Refuge on October 20, 1969. Unlike many of Georgia's Golden Isles, little development and few management practices have modified Wassaw's primitive character. The 10,053-acre refuge includes beaches with rolling dunes, live oak and slash pine woodlands, and vast salt marshes.

How to Get There

Wassaw NWR is accessible only by boat. Both Wassaw and Pine Island are open to the public during daylight hours - other upland areas are closed. Transportation to the refuge must be arranged by the visitor. Several local marinas in the Savannah area (skidaway Island and Isle of Hope) and a public boat ramp adjacent to the Skidaway Island bridge can serve as launching sites for trips to Wassaw.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge

Heading to Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge?

No central reservation system listed for Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1666) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge?

Wassaw NWR is accessible only by boat. Both Wassaw and Pine Island are open to the public during daylight hours - other upland areas are closed. Transportation to the refuge must be arranged by the visitor. Several local marinas in the Savannah area (skidaway Island and Isle of Hope) and a public boat ramp adjacent to the Skidaway Island bridge can serve as launching sites for trips to Wassaw.

How do I contact Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge?

You can reach the park at phone: 912-652-4415 or email: savannahcoastal@fws.gov.