Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge - Wildlife refuge in East Lake - Milltail Rd, USA

This wildlife refuge is an amazing place. Home to Black Bears, Red Wolves and of course Alligators. And many species of snakes and birds. The best way to learn about the refuge is to take tours or sign up for presentations offered by the US Fish and Wildlife or hire a guide knowledgeable of the area. It’s a pretty big area and it’s a little tough to learn about unassisted unless you live near enough to visit frequently.

While in OBX on business in October 2023, I planned a quick drive through of Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge on the way back home. My family and I had visited earlier in 2019 leaving me anxious to see it again. It was a beautiful North Carolina autumn day and I was not disappointed. If you enjoy riding dirt roads (which are well maintained BTW) with your windows down, taking in all you can gather from beautiful natural wetlands sights, sounds and aromas, the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge deserves a spacious carve out on your agenda. Black bears, waterfowl, wetlands scenery, easy lowland hikes, and heavenly natural atmosphere are in abundant supply. Please don’t overlook this opportunity. You will not be disappointed.

We drove the trail, and found some awesome wildlife. This was a great experience for us . We are so happy we drove these trails. Beautiful place, well taken care of

Unique and interesting area. If you are lucky when driving through you will see bears, alligators, turtles and even possibly red wolves. Also be prepared to not see anything. The kayak tours are cool, even if you don’t see any wildlife.

Fantastic refuge with a great wildlife drive and fun kayaking off of Buffalo City Road. We saw tons of bears, a red wolf, and plenty of birds. Truly amazing place!

If you're into wildlife and nature, this is a great use of an evening. We saw numerous groups of mother bears with cubs, turtles, and a snake. It's better to come later in the afternoon for better chances to see animals. There's even a chance of seeing the rare red wolf. Loved the atmosphere.

Went a little too late in the morning and missed any larger wildlife. We saw tons of turtles, some herons, and a hawk. Definitely want to come back earlier in the morning!

The wildlife drive along Miltail road is a great place to view wildlife. Depending on the time of day and time of year you may see black bears, red wolves, barred owls, turkeys, or alligators.