Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Park

Address: Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Dorchester County / Maryland Eastern Shore, USA

Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/blackwater/

Hours: Typically daylight hours; visitor center hours vary by refuge

Admission: Entrance may be free; specific refuge and visitor-center details vary - check U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service for latest information

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is a protected tidal marsh and wetland complex on Maryland’s Eastern Shore that preserves habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. It was established in the early 20th century and is part of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

The refuge contains extensive brackish and tidal marshes, freshwater impoundments and woodlands that support waterfowl, wading birds and raptors. Public access facilities typically include an interpretive visitor center, short boardwalks and a wildlife drive for observing birds and marsh wildlife.

The refuge is located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland in Dorchester County near the town of Cambridge and is accessed from roads serving the rural shoreline of the Chesapeake Bay.

• Tidal marsh protection: The refuge protects extensive tidal marshes and forested wetlands that are important for migratory waterfowl and other bird species along the Atlantic flyway.
• Seasonal wildlife peaks: Best wildlife viewing is seasonal, with waterfowl and migratory birds concentrated in fall and winter months.

What to See#

• Visitor center and wildlife drive: A visitor center and a wildlife drive provide access to marsh and forest habitats and interpretive information for birdwatching and seasonal wildlife viewing.

Blackwater Refuge is on Maryland’s Eastern Shore near Cambridge and Salisbury. From US-50, follow US-50 east and then US-13/Route 50 connector roads to local access points; the main refuge visitor center is accessible by car with signage from Cambridge.

• Bring binoculars in spring and autumn for migratory birdwatching, especially waterfowl.
• Expect early-morning activity from birds - dawn is best for wildlife viewing.
• Drive carefully on refuge roads; some are unpaved and become muddy after rain.