Discover a sanctuary for birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals on Maryland's Eastern Shore in this beautiful area rich in wetlands, forest and meadows.

The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic environmental center with over 28,000 acres (113 square kilometers) of freshwater reservoirs, wetlands, open fields and forests. Enjoy a fun day outdoors, get close to amazing wildlife and photograph the beautiful scenery.

In 1933 the Blackwater Refuge was created as a sanctuary for birds migrating along the critical migration highway called the Atlantic Flyway. The name “blackwater” comes from the Blackwater River and the Little Blackwater River, which feed the refuge area. These rivers have tea-colored waters darkened by the tannin that is picked up as the water drains through peat soil in the marshes. Enjoy the stunning natural scenery, home for over 250 bird species, 35 species of reptiles and amphibians, numerous mammals and more than 100 species of threatened and endangered plants.

Learn about the amazing bald eagle, the most famous wildlife resident in the Blackwater Wildlife Refuge. The refuge hosts the largest breeding population of bald eagles on the East Coast north of Florida. View the live camera feed constantly monitoring an eagle’s nest on the Friends of Blackwater website.

The main attraction of the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is Wildlife Drive, a paved road that you can explore by car, bike or foot. Follow this route along the Blackwater River. Discover the amazing views and see interesting examples of the local wildlife.

While you are visiting the refuge, make sure you stop off at the visitor center on Key Wallace Drive. Here you’ll find great wildlife exhibits, including an authentic eagle's nest, a lovely butterfly garden, a book and gift shop and plenty of useful information including maps and brochures. On the second floor, discover the Wild Birds Unlimited Pathways to Nature Observatory, which features bird exhibits and scopes for viewing the Blackwater River.

The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is located about 12 miles (19 kilometers) south of Cambridge, Maryland in Dorchester County. Visit to enjoy a fun and educational day for the whole family.

Plan a trip to see Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

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Grand Hotel Ocean City Oceanfront

Downtown Ocean City

per person

Jun. 21 - Jun. 24

Roundtrip flight included

Toronto (YYZ) to Salisbury (SBY)

8.8/10 Excellent! (1,987 reviews)

My family and I enjoyed our stay at this hotel. The ocean view was beautiful. The indoor pool was fun in the same vicinity they have giant chess, giant connect 4, basketball and other games and vending machines. They have an ice cream store on one end and a pizza shop and arcade on the other end. Also a bar and grill restaurant and a 24 hour shop that sells coffee, baked goods, sandwiches, etc. The staff was friendly and personable and the hotel was clean. I would definitely go back.

Reviewed on Apr. 29, 2024

The Hotel at the University of Maryland

per person

Jun. 1 - Jun. 5

Roundtrip flight included

Toronto (YTZ) to Washington (DCA)

9/10 Wonderful! (1,099 reviews)

While they didnt have the room type i booked available except for an inside facing room, the "downgraded" double bed room they provided was absolutely wonderful. Housekeeping was great, just remember to request it. Really wish they would bring back their loyalty program

Reviewed on Apr. 29, 2024

The George Washington Hotel, A Wyndham Grand Hotel

Old Town Winchester

per person

Jul. 12 - Jul. 17

Roundtrip flight included

Toronto (YTO) to Washington (DCA)

9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,004 reviews)

Covienience- beauty, decor

Reviewed on Apr. 28, 2024

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