Refuge Information

Hours and Admission

Wildlife Drive is open every day EXCEPT FRIDAYS regardless of holidays and admission is $5 per vehicle, $1 per pedestrian or bicycle. The "Ding" Darling Visitor & Education Center is FREE. Hours of operation vary. Click the link for details.

About the Complex

J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge Complex

The J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge Complex encompasses four other National Wildlife Refuges.

J.N. Ding Darling is managed as part of the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America’s fish, wildlife, and plants.

• Discover Ding App

  

  Download our refuge app and play our Wildlife Drive trivia game! Be sure to share field tips, photos and record the birds you see.

  Learn more about the Discover Ding App

• "Ding" Darling Wildlife Society- Friends of the Refuge

  

  The "Ding" Darling Wildlife Society (Society)- Friends of the Refuge is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports nature conservation, wildlife protection, and education efforts at the refuge. Support the Society today!

  Learn more about the Society

• Tarpon Bay Explorers

  

  Nestled on Refuge lands adjacent to Tarpon Bay Recreation Area, Tarpon Bay Explorers offers a variety of nature tours and rentals to help you make the most of your "Ding" Darling NWR experience. As our official Refuge concessionaire, Tarpon Bay Explorers offers the best view of the Refuge from the water.

  Learn more about Tarpon Bay Explorers

• America's Birding Hotspot & eBird

  

  "Ding" Darling is known as one of the best places to visit for birding. Watch our video, "America's Birding Hotspot" to see the beautiful imagery that awaits you at the Refuge. Also check out our eBird Tracker and find out what species have been seen on the refuge today!

  Find out more...