When submitting eBird observations at Saint Marks National Wildlife Refuge, it is most helpful to start a new checklist for each hotspot in the refuge. Use the general hotspot when you have a checklist that includes multiple locations or if no other hotspot or personal location is appropriate for your sightings.

The Saint Marks National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1931 to provide winter habitat for migratory birds, and is one of the oldest refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System. It encompasses about 86,000 acres in Wakulla, Jefferson and Taylor counties, and includes about 43 miles of north Florida’s Gulf coast. Congress has designated 17,350 acres of the Refuge a National Wilderness Area.

St. Marks NWR provides numerous recreation opportunities to thousands of visitors every year. People enjoy viewing the unique geology and diverse wildlife. Regulation of recreation activities allow for public enjoyment of the refuge while still protecting the wildlife and habitats.

The Refuge is open year round, daylight hours (gate on Lighthouse Road opens at 6 am).  Entrance fee required.

The Refuge's Visitor Center and administrative office is located about 25 miles south of Tallahassee. From Tallahassee, take FL-363 (Woodville Highway) to Wakulla. Turn left (east) on FL-267 (Bloxham Cutoff). At US-98 (Coastal Highway), turn left (east) and cross the Saint Marks River. Turn right on Lighthouse Road (CR-59) and drive 3 miles to the Visitor Center and Office.

Late fall through early spring the weather is usually cool, with some afternoon showers. Summer is hot and humid with a variety of biting insects.