Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Overview
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is managed by Fish and Wildlife Service and is located near Merritt Island, Florida.
The refuge traces its beginnings to the development of the nation’s Space Program. In 1962, NASA acquired the lands and waters adjacent to Cape Canaveral to establish the John F. Kennedy Space Center. NASA built a launch complex and other space-related facilities, but development of most of the area was not necessary. On August 28, 1963, as the 286th refuge of the National Wildlife Refuge System, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service signed an agreement to establish the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. In 1975 a second agreement established Canaveral National Seashore. Today, the Department of Interior manages most of the undeveloped portions of the Kennedy Space Center as a National Wildlife Refuge and National Seashore.
Things to Do at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Recreation Activities
Popular activities at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge include:
Nearby Activities
- Auto Touring
- Birding
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Interpretive Programs
- Non-Motorized Boating
- Photography
- Visitor Center
- Wildlife Viewing
Plan Your Visit
Reservation Tips
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a popular destination. Check individual facility pages for specific booking windows and availability.
Getting There
From I-95, take Exit 220 (Titusville, State Road 406 Exit). Drive east on SR406, also known as Garden Street. Continue east on Garden Street for 4 miles and travel over the Max Brewer Causeway Bridge. The Refuge begins at the east side of the causeway.
To reach the Visitor Information Center, continue 4 miles past the Refuge entrance (remain to your right at the fork in the road) and the Visitor Center entrance sign will be on your right.
GPS Coordinates: 28.64130530000000, -80.73558000000000
Contact & Resources
Phone: 321-861-5601
Additional Information:
