Maryland Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Magnet

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore near Cambridge, is one of the East Coast’s premier destinations for birdwatching and marshland scenery. The refuge protects more than 28,000 acres of tidal wetlands, freshwater ponds, and mixed forests, creating a vital habitat for migratory birds along the Atlantic Flyway. Visitors can spot bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons, snow geese, and countless waterfowl—especially during spring and fall migrations. The Wildlife Drive, a slow, scenic loop through the refuge, offers excellent views without requiring long hikes, while boardwalks and overlooks let you get close to the marsh’s quiet beauty. Beyond birdlife, Blackwater provides a peaceful, almost meditative landscape of sweeping grasses, winding waterways, and big skies that change dramatically with the seasons. Kayakers can paddle through narrow channels among egrets and soaring eagles, while cyclists enjoy the flat, open roads surrounding the refuge. The visitor center adds helpful context with exhibits and live-viewing cameras trained on eagle nests. Whether you come for photography, wildlife observation, or simply to enjoy the serene coastal environment, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is a place where nature feels wonderfully expansive and undisturbed.