St. Mark's National Wildlife Refuge

Welcome to St. Mark's National Wildlife Refuge, an oasis of salt marshes, freshwater swamps, and pine forests nestled on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast just 25 miles south of the State Capitol. This refuge spans across Taylor, Wakulla, and Jefferson Counties.

 

Refuge History: St. Mark's National Wildlife Refuge was first established in 1931 in order to provide refuge for migratory birds and other resident wildlife. For many years it has been a very popular birding destination while boasting over 300 species of birds. But birds are not the only creatures that stop here on their way down south, monarch butterflies stop by here before crossing over the Gulf into Mexico.

 

Flora and Fauna: St. Mark's National Wildlife Refuge helps protect the home of numerous plant and animals species. Some of the plants that grow inside the refuge boundaries include pines, cypresses, oaks, and shrubs. Some of the wild animals who call this place home include alligators, bobcats, bears, West-Indian manatees, loggerhead sea turtles, monarch butterflies, falcons, bald eagles, ducks, and woodpeckeres. Please treat their home with respect.

 

For the lover of the outdoors St. Mark's National Wildlife Refuge boasts views of the historic St. Mark's lighthouse, 43 miles of coastline, over 85 miles of trails, and so much more. Come on out and have a blast!