About St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
The Refuge was established in 1931 to provide wintering habitat for migratory birds. It is one of the oldest refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System. It encompasses over 86,000+ acres spread out between Wakulla, Jefferson, and Taylor counties, and includes about 43 miles along the Gulf Coast of northwest Florida.The Refuge includes coastal marshes, islands, tidal creeks and estuaries of seven north Florida rivers, and is home to a diverse community of plant and animal life. The Refuge also has strong ties to a rich cultural past, and is home to the St. Marks Lighthouse, which was built in 1842 (current tower) and is still in use today.Over 17,000 acres are protected under the Federal Wilderness Act.Longleaf Pine Land Management Research and Demonstration Area;Globally Important Bird AreaOutstanding Florida WatersClass 1 Air Quality area
How to Get There
The Refuge's Visitor Center and administrative office is located about 25 miles south of Tallahassee, FL. From Tallahassee, take SR 363 (Woodville Hwy) to Wakulla. Turn left (east) on SR 267 (Bloxham Cutoff). At US 98 (Coastal Hwy), turn left (east) and cross the St. Marks River. Turn right on Lighthouse Road (CR 59) and drive 3 miles to the Visitor Center/Office.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1619) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge?
The Refuge's Visitor Center and administrative office is located about 25 miles south of Tallahassee, FL. From Tallahassee, take SR 363 (Woodville Hwy) to Wakulla. Turn left (east) on SR 267 (Bloxham Cutoff). At US 98 (Coastal Hwy), turn left (east) and cross the St. Marks River. Turn right on Lighthouse Road (CR 59) and drive 3 miles to the Visitor Center/Office.
How do I contact St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 850-925-6121. or email: staintmarks@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
