Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
Time Needed: half-day
Experience Type: outdoor adventure, scenic views, wildlife
Home to the Okefenokee Swamp—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia—this vast, otherworldly landscape is the largest blackwater wetland in North America. Its dark, reflective waters, cypress forests, and abundant wildlife make it a must-see destination.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Take a Guided Boat Tour – Join a naturalist-led boat tour with Okefenokee Adventures to explore the swamp’s blackwater channels and spot wildlife, like sunning alligators.
- Paddle a Canoe or Kayak – Navigate over 120 miles of paddling trails through cypress forests and lily-dotted waterways for an unforgettable backcountry adventure.
- Explore Swamp Island Drive – Drive, bike, or walk this paved 7.4-mile loop to see alligators, turtles, and wading birds in their natural habitat.
- Hike the Boardwalks and Trails – Stroll the half-mile Chesser Island Boardwalk to the Owl’s Roost Tower for sweeping views of the expansive swamp from 40 feet above the boardwalk.
- Stop in the Visitor Center – Visit the Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center to watch an eight-minute film and explore interactive exhibits about the refuge’s wildlife and ecosystems.
Fun Fact – Okefenokee is home to a whopping 234 bird species, making it a dream destination for birders. Use the free Merlin Bird ID app to identify what you see, then learn more with the Peterson Field Guide to Birds of Eastern & Central North America.
Photo Credit: Alla Kemelmakher/Unsplash