Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we encourage you to:

  • Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information
  • Follow current CDC safe practices by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick


Features

  • TRAM for Rotator Item Sized

    Take a Tram !

    It's 90 minutes and good for all ages! Call Tarpon Bay Explorers, official Refuge Concessionaire. at 239/472-1351 for daily schedule.

    Refuge Tram Tour Schedule

  • Facebook Widget Promo

    We'll Miss You, Too

    Stay connected when you are away from the Refuge! Follow us on Facebook to stay in-the-know about what's going on at the Refuge.

    Learn how to stay connected.

  • Eagle

    Recent Wildlife Sightings

    Check out what has been spotted on the Refuge. Our list is updated weekly so you know what to keep an eye out for when you visit.

    Learn More

  • Ethical Wildlife Viewing Spoonbill

    Ethical Wildlife Viewing

    Remember while visiting your refuge to view and photograph wildlife in a safe and ethical way.

    Learn more about ethical wildlife viewing

  • App Widget Promo

    FREE Discover Ding App

    Download the App and play the trivia game along Wildlife Drive. Share photos, field tips, and score high points.

    Learn more about the Discover Ding App.

News

Discover Ding App

App Widget Promo

Download our refuge app and play our Wildlife Drive trivia game! Be sure to share field tips, photos and record the birds you see.

Learn more about the Discover Ding App

"Ding" Darling Wildlife Society- Friends of the Refuge

DDWS Logo

The "Ding" Darling Wildlife Society (Society)- Friends of the Refuge is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports nature conservation, wildlife protection, and education efforts at the refuge. Support the Society today!

Learn more about the Society

Tarpon Bay Explorers

TBE Logo

Nestled on Refuge lands adjacent to Tarpon Bay Recreation Area, Tarpon Bay Explorers offers a variety of nature tours and rentals to help you make the most of your "Ding" Darling NWR experience. As our official Refuge concessionaire, Tarpon Bay Explorers offers the best view of the Refuge from the water.

Learn more about Tarpon Bay Explorers and the 2019 Summer Programs

America's Birding Hotspot & eBird

Right Col Video

"Ding" Darling is known as one of the best places to visit for birding. Watch our video, "America's Birding Hotspot" to see the beautiful imagery that awaits you at the Refuge. Also check out our eBird Tracker and find out what species have been seen on the refuge today!

Find out more...
Refuge Information

Hours and Admission

Welcome Sign

Wildlife Drive is open every day EXCEPT FRIDAYS regardless of holidays and admission is $10 per vehicle, $1 per pedestrian or bicycle. The Annual Pass is now $25 as of October 1, 2020. The "Ding" Darling Visitor & Education Center is FREE. Hours of operation vary. Click the link for details.

See Refuge hours and admission

About the Complex

J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge Complex

J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

Read more about the complex
About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

NWRS Logo

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.

Learn more about the NWRS
Follow NWRS Online