Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Blackwater Refuge
Explore the serene landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Blackwater Refuge, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Maryland.
Nestled in the heart of Maryland, Blackwater Refuge is a serene escape for nature lovers and bird watchers alike. With vast wetlands and rich wildlife, this park offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.
A brief summary to Blackwater Refuge
- 3185 Key Wallace Dr, Cambridge, Maryland, 21613, US
- +1410-228-2677
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Pack binoculars and a camera to capture the diverse bird species and stunning landscapes.
- Check the visitor center for information on guided tours and special events during your visit.
- Dress in layers as temperatures can change quickly, especially near the water.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head to the address: 3185 Key Wallace Dr, Cambridge, MD 21613. From there, follow the signs for Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. The entrance is located approximately 5 miles from the main road. Look for the visitor center, which is a great first stop for information on the refuge.
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Public Transportation
Currently, public transportation options are limited in this area. Your best bet is to take a bus to Cambridge, MD. Once in Cambridge, you may need to use a rideshare service or taxi to reach Blackwater Refuge. Ensure to check the local bus schedules for the latest routes and availability, as they may vary.
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Bicycle
If you are feeling adventurous, consider biking to the refuge. From Cambridge, you can take Key Wallace Drive directly to the entrance of Blackwater Refuge. Be sure to wear a helmet and stay aware of traffic, as some portions of the road may not have bike lanes.
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Walking
Walking to Blackwater Refuge is not recommended due to the distance from central Cambridge and the lack of pedestrian paths along the road. However, once you are inside the refuge, there are numerous trails for walking and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Discover more about Blackwater Refuge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dorchester County Historical Society
13.5 km
Discover the captivating history of Dorchester County at the Historical Society—where local heritage comes to life through engaging exhibits and rich artifacts.
Eastern Shore Infantry
14.0 km
Discover the Eastern Shore Infantry Historical Landmark in Cambridge, Maryland—a vital piece of Civil War history and a tribute to local heroes.
Historic East New Market Marker
21.4 km
Discover the Historic East New Market Marker, a captivating landmark revealing Maryland's rich history and cultural significance.
Middlepoint Mason Dixon Marker
33.1 km
Explore the Middlepoint Mason Dixon Marker, a historical landmark symbolizing the division between Delaware and Maryland, rich in American history and heritage.
Talbot Historical Society Mary Jenkins House
36.5 km
Explore the Talbot Historical Society Mary Jenkins House for an insightful journey through Easton’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Small Boat Shed
40.2 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay at the Small Boat Shed Museum in St. Michaels, Maryland, a captivating destination for all ages.
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Parking Lot
40.2 km
Explore the heart of St. Michaels, Maryland with easy access to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and the town’s vibrant attractions.
Waterman's Wharf
40.3 km
Explore the maritime history of St. Michaels at Waterman's Wharf, a captivating museum showcasing the Chesapeake Bay's rich cultural heritage.
Mitchell House
40.3 km
Explore the fascinating maritime heritage of St. Michaels at Mitchell House, a captivating museum showcasing the rich history of the Chesapeake Bay.
Steamboat Building of CBMM
40.3 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay at the Steamboat Building of CBMM in St. Michaels, Maryland, immersing yourself in unique history and culture.
Salisbury Plaza
41.5 km
Explore the vibrant Salisbury Plaza in Maryland, a dynamic business center with unique shopping, dining, and community events for every traveler.
Brew River
41.7 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and craft beers at Brew River in Salisbury, Maryland, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Mad Hatter Cafe
41.8 km
Experience a fusion of flavors at Mad Hatter Cafe, where whimsical decor meets delightful culinary creations in Salisbury, Maryland.
Rise Up Coffee
41.8 km
Discover Rise Up Coffee in Salisbury, MD - your go-to destination for premium coffee and delightful pastries in a cozy atmosphere.
Riverside Traffic Circle
41.9 km
Explore the Riverside Traffic Circle in Salisbury, MD – a beautiful historical landmark perfect for leisurely strolls and capturing the essence of the area’s rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pollinator Sanctuary
1.5 km
Explore the Pollinator Sanctuary in Cambridge, MD, a peaceful garden celebrating the beauty of nature and the importance of pollinators.
Marsh Edge Trail
1.5 km
Explore the natural beauty of Marsh Edge Trail in Cambridge, Maryland, a serene hiking area perfect for outdoor adventures and wildlife watching.
Wildlife Drive Photo Blind
1.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Wildlife Drive Photo Blind in Church Creek, Maryland – a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Observation Site
1.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Blackwater Wildlife Refuge in Maryland, a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
Key Wallace Hiking Trail - Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
2.0 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Key Wallace Hiking Trail in Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, a hiker's paradise in Maryland.
Site of Harriet Tubman Childhood Home
2.7 km
Explore the Harriet Tubman Childhood Home, a pivotal landmark celebrating the life and legacy of the Underground Railroad's most iconic figure.
Woods Trail
2.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Woods Trail in Maryland, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
4.0 km
Explore the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center for an unforgettable journey through Maryland's natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park
5.6 km
Explore the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park, a historic site celebrating freedom, resilience, and the legacy of an American hero.
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center
5.6 km
Discover the legacy of Harriet Tubman at the Underground Railroad State Park, where history meets natural beauty in Maryland's serene landscape.
Little Blackwater Soft Launch & Water Trail
8.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Little Blackwater Soft Launch & Water Trail in Cambridge, Maryland, perfect for kayaking, birdwatching, and family picnics.
Stanley Institute Museum
11.4 km
Explore the Stanley Institute Museum in Cambridge, Maryland - a treasure trove of local history and cultural heritage awaits every visitor.
Harriet Tubman Museum and Educational Center
13.8 km
Explore the Harriet Tubman Museum and Educational Center, a profound tribute to freedom, justice, and the legacy of an American hero in Cambridge, Maryland.
Long Wharf Park
14.5 km
Explore Long Wharf Park in Cambridge, Maryland—an enchanting park with scenic views, lush greenery, and a peaceful atmosphere for all visitors.
Choptank River Lighthouse
14.6 km
Explore the historic Choptank River Lighthouse in Cambridge, MD, where maritime history meets stunning riverside views for an unforgettable experience.
Essential places to dine
Eagle's Nest
13.0 km
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Water's Edge Grill
13.2 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Water's Edge Grill while enjoying stunning views of Chesapeake Bay in Cambridge, Maryland.
Blue Point Provision Company
13.2 km
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Ocean Odyssey Crab House & Seafood Restaurant
13.3 km
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River View At The Point
13.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at River View At The Point in Cambridge, MD - where culinary excellence meets breathtaking waterfront views.
Portside Seafood Restaurant/
13.9 km
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Carol's Kitchen
15.1 km
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Suicide Bridge Restaurant
23.6 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining at Suicide Bridge Restaurant with stunning river views in Hurlock, Maryland.
The Lighthouse Restaurant and Dockbar
36.2 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine with stunning waterfront views at The Lighthouse Restaurant and Dockbar in Solomons, MD.
Roy Rogers
36.3 km
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Out of the Fire
36.4 km
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RUDE BBQ
36.6 km
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Hunters Tavern
36.6 km
Discover the heart of Maryland cuisine at Hunters Tavern - a cozy bar and American restaurant offering delightful local flavors.
Scossa Restaurant & Lounge
36.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Scossa Restaurant & Lounge in Easton - where every meal is a celebration of flavors.
Bas Rouge
36.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blackwater Adventures Chesapeake Bay
0.7 km
Experience the beauty and adventure of the Chesapeake Bay with boat rentals, kayak tours, and more at Blackwater Adventures.
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
4.0 km
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The Market at Church Creek
9.5 km
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Peninsula Holistics
10.3 km
Explore a world of natural wellness at Peninsula Holistics in Cambridge, Maryland - your destination for holistic health and self-care.
Heaven's Creationz
11.0 km
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Woolford Store
11.2 km
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Snows Turn Marketplace LLC
11.4 km
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Crystal Prints
11.8 km
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jaded
12.1 km
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Antique Alley of Cambridge
12.2 km
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Kraven's Comic Books and Collectibles
12.3 km
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Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center
12.3 km
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Dark Horse Antiques
12.3 km
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Bay Country Shop
12.5 km
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Bay Country Antiques
12.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Off the Rook
13.2 km
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Art Bar At Liv Again
13.8 km
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Blue Ruin
13.9 km
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The LabRaRtory
13.9 km
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The Dive Club
13.9 km
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RAR Brewing
13.9 km
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Snappers Waterfront Cafe & Tiki Bar
14.2 km
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Palm Beach Willies
18.8 km
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Old Salty's Restaurant, LLC.
19.2 km
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Johnny's Tavern
21.4 km
Experience the best of grill culture at Johnny's Tavern, East New Market's favorite sports bar for delicious food and lively atmosphere.
Boonies Burgers Beer & Bait
22.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of delicious burgers, refreshing beers, and friendly vibes at Boonies Burgers Beer & Bait in Tyaskin, Maryland.
Robert Morris Inn
28.9 km
Experience historic charm and modern comfort at Robert Morris Inn, a premier destination for relaxation and fine dining in Oxford, Maryland.
Bull Lips Dock Bar Dock
29.9 km
Discover Bull Lips Dock Bar in Quantico, a vibrant waterfront bar offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and stunning river views.
Buckets Bar and Grill
32.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Buckets Bar and Grill in Lusby, MD, where delicious food meets live entertainment for an unforgettable night out.
Barrel 9
33.0 km
Discover Barrel 9 in Lusby, MD, where craft beers meet artisanal cocktails in a cozy, rustic setting perfect for unwinding.
