Savannah Coastal Refuges Visitor Center

The Savannah Coastal Refuges Visitor Center is the educational gateway to the cluster of federal wildlife refuges that make up one of coastal Georgia's greatest natural assets. Located on SC-170 in Hardeeville just north of Savannah, this free visitor center provides exhibits, maps, wildlife identification guides, and staff who can orient you for the best refuge experience.

For families, the center serves as a practical starting point before the Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive at Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. The exhibits on coastal Georgia ecosystems, migratory birds, alligators, and managed wetland habitats give kids enough context that the subsequent wildlife drive becomes a guided scavenger hunt rather than a passive car ride. "We're looking for wood storks — they're the big bald-headed ones" is a much better car trip than "look for birds."

The center is small — a 30-45 minute visit is appropriate — and the real value comes from combining it with the wildlife drive. Think of it as the orientation that makes the main attraction better rather than a destination in itself.

Hours are the critical planning factor: open Monday through Friday only, 10am-2pm. Closed Saturday and Sunday. If you're visiting on a weekend, skip directly to the Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive and use the refuge's self-guided materials. For weekday visitors, the center is a worthwhile first stop.

Admission is free — this is a US Fish & Wildlife Service facility. Staff are knowledgeable and welcoming, and the educational materials are appropriate for school-age children.