Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is 10 mi. s. on SRs 16 and 335 at the confluence of the Blackwater and Little Blackwater rivers. The more than 27,000 acres are home to eagles, muskrats, red foxes and such migratory waterfowl as ducks, geese and swans. The best time to view waterfowl is mid-October to mid-March. Ospreys hatch in late May. The 7.5-mile Wildlife Drive loop, four nature hiking trails, 26 miles of paddling trails and a bicycle route offer views.

The visitor center has information, exhibits about refuge habitats and conservation efforts and an observatory overlooking the wetlands. Live web cams monitor eagle and osprey nests, and the refuge shelters the endangered Delmarva fox squirrel. A butterfly and beneficial insect garden also is on the grounds.

Time: Allow 1 hour minimum.