National Key Deer Refuge

The National Key Deer Refuge was established in 1957 to protect Key deer and other wildlife in the Florida Keys. The refuge is located in the lower section of the Keys and covers 9,200 acres of various types of land. The land is home to a total of 17 species on the endangered animal list including Key deer, the silver rice rat, and the Keys marsh rabbit.

The entire refuge covers 84,351 acres located in Monroe County. The refuge is 100 miles southwest of Miami and 30 miles northeast of Key West. The Key deer population was as low as 27 in 1957 when the refuge was established. Today the population has grown to over 800. The refuge has a total of 13 staff that oversees the refuge. There are approximately 100,000 visitors annually.

The refuge includes a visitor's center where people can learn the history of the refuge as well as their mission to protect the habitat and animals living in it. There are interactive displays and maps as well as a small gift shop with snacks and restrooms. The refuge is open 365 days a year. Tour groups should be arranged in advance with staff.