Contained within this 35-mile long barrier island is a rich abundance of plants and animals from both the subtropical and temperate climate zones. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is strategically located on the Atlantic Flyway, a major bird migration corridor, and it is a key resting stop for many migratory bird species. The refuge's habitats support one of the highest numbers of endangered and threatened species found within the refuges of the National Wildlife Refuge System. This unique relationship the refuge shares with NASA bears testimony that nature and technology can coexist.
When
Date February 14 2025
Time
Admission Fees
Entrance fee per car is $9 (exact cash is needed to put in the Honor System Envelope) or Free if you have an “America the Beautiful” National Park Pass
Where
1963 Refuge Headquarters Road Titusville, FL 32782
Contact - Rebecca Janssen
Contact phone number 804 615 2069
Parking Info - As available along Wildlife Drive
Entrance Info -Some members will arrive at the Refuge for sunrise and others will come later in the morning. Just take your time when you arrive and I am sure you will meet up with some of us along the drive
Transportation
Car pooling is suggested set up individually.
Food
We plan to leave the Refuge between 11:30-12:00 pm and have lunch at a local Restaurant (TBD). Be sure to Register for this Outing listing your phone number so that I may contact you as to which Restaurant we will visit.
Schedule of Events
Arrive on your own schedule. The refuge is open at sunrise. We plan to meet for lunch starting at 11:30 AM. Check with outing leader for details.
Gear
Both Mid and Long zoom lenses are recommended. Tripods may help and be needed for some shots.
Polarizers can, depending on cloud cover, help with shots with water but not on wide angle shots including the sky!
Other Tips
The visitors Center is closed during construction.
Visitor services will be available at a temporary contact station located near the west entrance of the refuge adjacent to West Gator Creek Road, approximately ½ mile east of the A. Max Brewer Memorial Parkway bridge