Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a nature reserve located on an island in Florida covering about 140,000 acres. The landscape includes coastal sand dunes, salt marshes, managed water impoundments, scrub vegetation, pine forests, and hammock woodlands.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration acquired the land in the early 1960s and established the refuge in 1963 to protect migratory birds. The area was created as a wildlife sanctuary alongside a major space launch facility.

The refuge is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail network and attracts visitors who come to observe wildlife and connect with nature. Open trails and viewing areas show how people spend time here, moving through different landscapes and watching birds and animals throughout the day.

The Visitor Center is the best starting point to get your bearings and learn about the open trails and viewing areas. Black Point Wildlife Drive is a popular route for driving or walking, and multiple boat launch areas are available for those who want to explore by water.

The land simultaneously serves a major space center and functions as a wildlife sanctuary, creating an unusual coexistence of nature and technology side by side. This dual use demonstrates that habitat protection can happen alongside modern facilities.

Location: Florida

Inception: 1963

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/merritt_island

GPS coordinates: 28.51670,-80.66670

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:42