Located 12 miles south of Cambridge, the refuge has more than 28,000 acres of woodland, rich tidal marsh, freshwater ponds and managed cropland—great for birdwatching, cycling, hiking, and paddling.

Blackwater NWR is one of the chief wintering areas for migrating ducks and Canada geese using the Atlantic Flyway. Throughout the year there is a diverse population of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians to enjoy watching and photographing, including bald eagles and the endangered Delmarva fox squirrel.

The refuge features a full service Visitor Center with a bookstore, restrooms, butterfly garden, and observatory, and a 4-mile Wildlife Drive with walking trails and a photo blind.