Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we ask that you recreate responsibly.

  • Check alerts and local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information. Operations vary based on local public health conditions.
  • Consistent with CDC recommendations, all visitors (age 2 and older), who are fully vaccinated are required to wear a mask inside of federal buildings in areas of substantial or high community transmission.. All visitors who are not fully vaccinated must continue to wear masks indoors and in crowded outdoor spaces.
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick and continue to watch for symptoms of COVID-19 and follow CDC guidance on how to protect yourself and others.


Enjoy Your Visit!

Visitor Activities

Surf fishing on Blackbeard Island NWR

There are wildlife-dependent recreational activities offered year-round at Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge including wildlife viewing, photography, hiking, bicycling, fishing and hunting. Come and enjoy YOUR National Wildlife Refuge today!

Learn more...

Hunt Information

White-tailed deer by Michael Leary

Blackbeard Island NWR hosts two, 3-day archery hunts for white-tailed deer and feral hogs every year A refuge hunt permit and State licenses are required for hunters 16 and over.

Click here for detailed hunting information...

Found a Baby Bird or Injured Wildlife?

The refuge is not equipped to take in or care for injured or orphaned animals. The Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources maintains a list of permitted wildlife rehabilitators that you may contact. Georgia DNR is also who should be contacted for any nuisance wildlife issues, including aggressive alligators.

Click here for information on who to contact...
Hours of Operation

Hours of Operation

Blackbeard Island NWR is open to visitors daily from sunrise to sunset, except during scheduled refuge hunts. Transportation to the refuge is not provided; visitors must use their own boats or make arrangements with a charter service.

About the Complex

Savannah Coastal Refuges Complex

Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Savannah Coastal Refuges Complex.

Read more about the complex
About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

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The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants.

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