Dogs and other domestic pets are not allowed on refuge lands, including all trails and beaches. In addition to the potential for disturbance to wildlife and other visitors, dogs are easy prey for American alligators which are abundant on all refuges in the Complex. You may have your pet while driving the wildlife drives at Savannah and Harris Neck NWRs, but they are not allowed to leave your vehicle.
Please be aware when visiting Pinckney Island NWR that there are no on-site staff or public amenities such as restrooms, drinking water, and shelter in the event of severe weather. Beyond the parking area, all movement within the refuge is on foot or bicycle and it is approximately a 2-mile walk round-trip from the parking area to the first pond (Ibis). Visitors should check forecasted weather conditions prior to visiting and make sure you bring plenty of drinking water. In cases of emergency, please call 911.
Visit Us
Situated between Hilton Head Island and the mainland town of Bluffton, SC, Pinckney Island is easily accessible and receives nearly a quarter of a million visitors a year. Visitors can enjoy wildlife-dependent activities such as hiking, bicycling, and wildlife watching. Saltwater fishing is allowed in the waters surrounding the refuge, however freshwater fishing in refuge ponds is not permitted.
Pinckney Island NWR is open from sunrise to sunset, 7 days a week.