Savannah National Wildlife Refuge

Savannah National Wildlife Refuge is one part of the Savannah Coastal Refuge Complex, which extends from Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge near Hilton Head Island, S.C., to Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge near Darien, Ga.; a visitor center is at 694 Beech Hill Ln. in Hardeeville, S.C. Freshwater marshes, tidal rivers and forests provide sanctuary for waterfowl, deer, turkey and bobcats. Many of the freshwater impoundments were originally created as plantation rice fields. The surrounding dikes and earthen berms create good trails for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Bird-watching is best October through April. On the South Carolina side is the Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive, a scenic 4-mile route off SR 170. The refuge visitor center, on US 17 6 miles north of downtown Savannah and 7 miles south of Hardeeville, has a museum-quality exhibit hall where an 11-minute video about the refuge is shown. Various interpretive programs and special events are conducted throughout the year.

Pets (including horses) are not permitted on refuge grounds.

Time: Allow 30 minutes minimum.