Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge conserves the unique qualities of the Okefenokee Swamp for future generations to enjoy.  The swamp is considered the headwaters of the Suwannee and St Mary's Rivers.  Habitats provide for threatened and endangered species, such as red-cockaded woodpecker, wood storks, indigo snakes, and a wide variety of other wildlife species.  It is world renowned for its amphibian populations that are bio-indicators of global health.  More than 600 plant species have been identified on refuge lands.  The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge has 353,981 acres of National Wilderness Area within the refuge boundaries.  In addition, the refuge is a Wetland of International Importance because it is one of the world’s largest intact freshwater ecosystems.     

Walk the Chesser Island Boardwalk (1.5 miles round trip) with a park guide to learn about the Chesser family who first settled this 592-acre island adjacent to the swamp, and discover the native plant and wildlife species that call the swamp home. Covered seating areas are scattered along the boardwalk.

The Owl's Roost Tower at the end of the boardwalk provides a bird's eye view of the Okefenokee Swamp. The tower has three flights of stairs to reach the top, and seating for those that wish to sit and enjoy nature's beauty.