Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
A vast wetland refuge, home to alligators, otters, and diverse birdlife, offering scenic boardwalks and trails for nature exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best wildlife activity
Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
Best Time
Best wildlife activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast wetland refuge, home to alligators, otters, and diverse birdlife, offering scenic boardwalks and trails for nature exploration.
"Such an interesting and atmospheric park! The entrance fee is $10 — if no one is at the gate, you can pay online."
🎯 Wear Sun Protection
Be prepared for sun exposure; bring a hat, sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Rent a kayak for a unique perspective on the wetlands and wildlife. Self-service and online payment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cypress Swamp Boardwalk
Near Visitor Center
A magical boardwalk through a unique cypress swamp ecosystem, perfect for spotting birds and other small creatures.
Gator Spotting
Various trails and waterways
Keep an eye out for alligators in their natural habitat; sightings are common and add an exciting element to your visit.
+1Otter Encounters
Waterways and banks
Witness playful otters in their natural environment, a delightful surprise for many visitors.
Birdwatching Paradise
Throughout the refuge
Home to over 250 bird species, this refuge is a haven for birdwatchers seeking diverse avian life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Wildlife
Entrance Fees & Annual Passes
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Sun Protection
Be prepared for sun exposure; bring a hat, sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Rent a kayak for a unique perspective on the wetlands and wildlife. Self-service and online payment.
🚶♀️ Explore the Boardwalk
Start your visit on the Cypress Swamp Boardwalk for an easy introduction to the refuge's beauty.
🚗 Annual Pass Value
Consider the $25 annual pass for frequent visits; it's a great deal for exploring this vast refuge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Sun Protection
Be prepared for sun exposure; bring a hat, sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Rent a kayak for a unique perspective on the wetlands and wildlife. Self-service and online payment.
🚶♀️ Explore the Boardwalk
Start your visit on the Cypress Swamp Boardwalk for an easy introduction to the refuge's beauty.
🚗 Annual Pass Value
Consider the $25 annual pass for frequent visits; it's a great deal for exploring this vast refuge.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Water fountains are available at the visitor center to refill your bottles.
🦚 Visitor Center Insights
Stop by the visitor center for maps and recent wildlife sighting reports from staff and visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge as a beautiful and atmospheric natural escape. The abundance of wildlife, including alligators and otters, is a major highlight, offering exciting encounters. While the $10 entrance fee is noted, many find it well worth the experience, especially with the option of an annual pass. The boardwalk and trails provide excellent opportunities for nature walks and photography, though visitors should be prepared for sun exposure.
"Such an interesting and atmospheric park! The entrance fee is $10 — if no one is at the gate, you can pay online. Many people come here to watch the sunset — and it’s totally worth it.
I was lucky enough to spot three alligators during my walk! You can rent a kayak (self-service, paid online), and there’s a route map showing where you might encounter wildlife along the way. It felt a bit scary, so we didn’t go kayaking this time — but definitely will next time!
You can also bike, fish, or bring your own boat. There are restrooms both at the beginning and end of the trail, which is convenient.
If you want to explore the whole area on foot, plan for about 2–3 hours. A great spot for nature lovers, outdoor adventures, and unexpected wildlife encounters 🐊🌿"
Margaret
"We are so blessed in Palm Beach County to have this amazing National Wildlife Refuge. It costs $10 to enter, or you can get a yearly pass for $25 per carload, which is well worth it if you are going to visit often.
The visitor center, when you enter, is worth a stop to get maps and for staff/volunteers to share what sitings have been reported back to them from visitors. I was able to enjoy the Sandhill Cranes walking their baby because of this information with the location and all and so precious.
Behind the visitor center is Cypress Swamp Boardwalk that wraps back around . It's a nice start to your journey their. It's .4 - mile and several benches a long the way. Their is a self- guided pamphlet you can pick up at the boardwalk entrance, which detail what you will be seeing. Their are also bathrooms outside and in the visitors center. All very clean. In the visitor center you can also fill up your water bottle at the fountain to stay hydrated and they have a wonderful gift shop.
The visitor center also has a great display and an opportunity to ride a virtual air boat and take an adventure with beautiful graphics being under the stars at night
their theater. You can also book tram tours to take you around the refuge to get familiar with the area.
Once in the refuge the walk is all open. I'm not as fearful as I was in the beginning. It is nature and the animals like the bobcats or Alligators or raccoons or Marsh rabbits may just look at you for the moment and go their merry way."
Bonni Coach B
"Nice, quiet and off the beaten path reserve! I went in the middle of the day on a Monday and it was very quiet. There is a short walk in a Cypress Swamp by the visitor center (first two photos) and a mile long loop around a drainage area (second two photos) along with a connection to the main reserve area at the end of the main road (not pictured). You are very exposed to the elements so be sure to bring a hat and sun protection clothes!"
Paul Marban
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The refuge is located at 10216 Lee Rd, Boynton Beach, FL 33473. It's easily accessible by car and is situated on the same road as Bedner's Farm, making it convenient to combine visits.
Information on public transportation options is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended way to access the refuge.
From I-95, take exit 62 for SR-802 W/Lake Worth Road and continue west. Turn left onto Lee Road, and the refuge entrance will be on your right.
While biking trails are available within the refuge, reaching it by bike from surrounding areas might be challenging due to road conditions and distance.
Yes, there is convenient parking available at the refuge, especially near the visitor center and trailheads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is $10 per person per day. An annual pass for a carload is available for $25, which is a great deal for frequent visitors.
If the entrance gate attendant is absent, you can pay online. There's a kiosk system for payment.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the annual pass offers significant savings for regular visitors.
The refuge is generally open daily, but it's always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours of operation, especially for the visitor center.
Yes, an annual pass is available for $25 per carload, offering unlimited access for a year. This is highly recommended if you plan to visit multiple times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Cypress Swamp Boardwalk is a must-do for an easy introduction. For longer exploration, consider the walking, biking, and canoe trails that wind through the wetlands.
You can spot alligators, otters, various bird species (over 250), butterflies, and other mammals. Keep an eye out, especially during dawn and dusk.
While it's a natural habitat for wildlife like alligators, visitors generally find it safe. Stay on marked trails and maintain a respectful distance from animals.
Yes, kayak rentals are available on a self-service basis and can be paid for online. This offers a unique way to explore the waterways.
To explore the entire area on foot, plan for about 2-3 hours. Shorter walks on the boardwalk can be done in under an hour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within the refuge itself. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks or dine in Boynton Beach before or after your visit.
Picnic areas are not explicitly mentioned, but visitors often bring their own food and enjoy it in designated spots or on benches along trails.
Boynton Beach, located nearby, offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants. Bedner's Farm is also close by and might offer some refreshments.
The visitor center has a gift shop, but it's not typically equipped with a cafe or snack bar. It's best to come prepared with your own food and drinks.
Yes, water fountains are available at the visitor center to refill your water bottles, which is essential for staying hydrated during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The Cypress Swamp Boardwalk offers atmospheric shots, while the open wetlands are great for capturing wildlife like alligators and birds. Sunsets can also be stunning.
Wildlife photography is a major draw, with opportunities to capture alligators, otters, and a wide variety of birds in their natural habitat.
Always maintain a safe and respectful distance from alligators and other wildlife. Never feed them or approach them closely for a photo.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Wildlife Refuges to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check the official refuge regulations for specifics.
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light and are prime times for wildlife activity, making them ideal for photography. Sunsets are also popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The chance to see alligators and otters in their natural habitat is a huge thrill for children, making the visit memorable. Visiting the visitor center can also be engaging, with exhibits and potential for learning about local wildlife. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as dining options are limited within the refuge.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as many trails are exposed.
📸 Photographers
The open wetlands and waterways are prime locations for capturing alligators, otters, and a vast array of bird species in their natural behaviors. +1 The refuge is particularly rewarding during the golden hours of dawn and dusk, when the light is soft and wildlife is most active. Remember to pack appropriate gear, including telephoto lenses for wildlife and wide-angle lenses for landscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Wetlands: Trails and Waterways
When planning your exploration, consider the length of your visit and your preferred mode of travel. A leisurely stroll on the boardwalk can take less than an hour, while dedicating 2-3 hours allows for a more thorough exploration of the walking trails.
Wildlife Encounters: Gators, Otters, and Birds
+1 Visitors have reported seeing them during walks and even while kayaking, adding an element of thrilling discovery to the experience. Beyond alligators, the refuge is a haven for otters, which have been observed playing and foraging along the water's edge, offering delightful viewing opportunities.
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the sheer variety, with over 250 species of birds calling this refuge home, including wading birds, raptors, and migratory species. The visitor center often provides updates on recent sightings, helping visitors maximize their chances of spotting specific animals. Remember that wildlife is most active during the cooler parts of the day, particularly at dawn and dusk. Visiting during these times significantly increases your chances of observing animals in their natural behavior.
Visitor Experience: Amenities and Tips
For those planning their visit, consider the entrance fee of $10 per person, with an annual pass available for $25 per carload, offering excellent value for repeat visitors.
+1 The refuge is best explored with adequate preparation for the Florida climate; sun protection, including hats and sunscreen, is highly recommended due to the open nature of many trails. 
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