About Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was established in 1933 as a waterfowl sanctuary for birds migrating along the Atlantic Flyway, and currently encompasses more than 32,000 acres. Blackwater NWR is home to an incredible amount of plant and animal diversity in its three major habitats – forest, marsh and shallow water. The refuge contains one-third of Maryland's tidal wetlands, which makes it an ecologically important area within the state. These wetlands also provide storm protection to lower Dorchester County, including the town of Cambridge. Blackwater NWR is recognized as a "Wetland of International Importance" by the Ramsar Convention and was named a priority wetland in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. In addition, Blackwater NWR has been designated as an Internationally Important Bird Area.Blackwater NWR is home to the largest natural population of formerly endangered Delmarva peninsula fox squirrels and is also home to the largest breeding population of American bald eagles on the East Coast, north of Florida.The refuge has been referred to as the "Everglades of the North," and has been called one of the "Last Great Places" by the Nature Conservancy.
How to Get There
The refuge is located approximately 12 miles south of the town of Cambridge on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. From Route 50 in Cambridge take Route 16 West (Church Creek Road) until you reach the flashing light (about 5 miles), then turn left onto Egypt Road. Follow Egypt road for approximately 7 miles and it will dead end at Key Wallace Drive. Turn left for the Wildlife Drive (0.2 miles), or turn right for the visitor center (1.25 miles).GPS ADVISORY: If you are using GPS navigation to find the refuge, you will need to enter our physical address: 2145 Key Wallace Drive, Cambridge, Maryland, 21613. This will bring you to the Blackwater NWR Visitor Center. DO NOT USE "BLACKWATER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE"!Road Etiquette: When stopping to view wildlife along public roads, please be sure to get as far off the road as safely possible and turn on your hazard lights. Do not park near a blind corner, and do not block traffic. On the Wildlife Drive, park in the pull-offs or on the right side of the road before exiting your vehicle. This will ensure the safety of visitors and residents alike.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Blackwater 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 Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1309) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge?
The refuge is located approximately 12 miles south of the town of Cambridge on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. From Route 50 in Cambridge take Route 16 West (Church Creek Road) until you reach the flashing light (about 5 miles), then turn left onto Egypt Road. Follow Egypt road for approximately 7 miles and it will dead end at Key Wallace Drive. Turn left for the Wildlife Drive (0.2 miles), or turn…
How do I contact Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 410-228-2677 or email: fw5rw_BWNWR@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
