Established in 1937 in order to preserve the 438,000 acre Okefenokee Swamp, this refuge encompasses approximately 396,000 acres and the swamp remains one of the oldest and most well preserved freshwater areas in America. This ecological wonder is excellent for fishing and wildlife viewing and visitors can enjoy guided boat tours, boat and canoe rentals, a wildlife observation drive, over four miles of hiking trails, a boardwalk into the swamp, two observation towers, a visitor's center, and a restored swamp homestead while at this refuge.