Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge

Covering some 53,000 acres, the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1979 along the last 20 miles of the historic Suwannee River. It was formed to protect one of America's largest undeveloped river-delta estuarine systems, where the river-borne nutrients mix in the briny waters of offshore islands and tidal creeks to create an excellent habitat for wildlife.

Among the many species that make their home here are bald eagles, swallow-tailed kites, Gulf sturgeon, West Indian manatees, white-tailed deer, and eastern wild turkeys. Supporting all these creatures are such varying ecological regions as tidal flats, natural salt marshes, bottomland hardwood swamps, and pine forests.

Activities that can be enjoyed at the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge include bird and wildlife observation, nature photography, fishing, hunting (in season), paddling, and interpretive walks. A number of boardwalks and observation towers have been constructed to provide easy access to unique views of wildlife and the refuge habitats.

The Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge is located at 16450 NW 31 Place

Chiefland, Florida 32626. It can be most easily reached on County Road 347, 17 miles north of Cedar Key. Facilities on the property include a pier, time line information, a toilet facility, and a walking trail that leads to a 19th century cemetery.