Biking
At Swanquarter National Wildlife Refuge
Bicyclists can explore Bell Island Road, the two-mile gravel entrance road to the Bell Island Pier. The entrance road runs through coastal marshes and swamp forests, providing opportunities to experience this remote area and spot wildlife along the way. Visitors should be prepared for biting insects, variable weather conditions, and other vehicle traffic along the road.
Swanquarter National Wildlife Refuge Activities
Fishing
Anglers fishing from the Bell Island Pier and from the waters around the refuge may catch a wide variety of fish, including Atlantic croaker, spot, weakfish, spotted seatrout, Atlantic flounder, red drum, and bluefish. Crabbing is a popular activity during the warmer months.
Hunting
Waterfowl hunters who enjoy the challenge of hunting fast-flying diving ducks have a great public opportunity at Swanquarter NWR. The 6,120-acre hunt area is accessible by boat and open for waterfowl hunting during State seasons. Open-water hunting is not permitted; all boats must touch the marsh.
Wildlife watching
Swanquarter National Wildlife Refuge attracts a variety of wildlife throughout the year, including waterfowl, wading birds, shorebirds, and otters. Much of the refuge is accessible only by boat, with Bell Island Road and Pier offering land-based wildlife viewing opportunities.