Staffing and budget cuts could imperil Eastern Neck’s future as a Refuge. 

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Recent Posts

• Refuge closed during October deer hunt days
  Please note that the refuge will be closed on the following seven days in October for deer hunts: October 3, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, and 22, 2026. Boaters may still access Bogles Wharf for the purpose of launching boats on these days. For more information about hunting on the refuge, please visit… Read more: Refuge closed during October deer hunt days
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  Celebrating Twenty-Five Years Of Butterfly Gardening
  “Honoring The Past, Cultivating The Present, and Planting Seeds For The Future”                         Celebrating Twenty-Five Years Of Butterfly Gardening The Friends Of Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge will host an Open House on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon… Read more: Celebrating Twenty-Five Years Of Butterfly Gardening
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  Purple Martins Breeding at Eastern Neck Island
  In September, 2023, volunteers from the Friends of Eastern Neck (FOEN) put up 12 “luxury apartments” (plastic gourds) in hopes of attracting Purple Martins.  Martins are the largest swallow species in the U.S.  Their close relationship with humans began when Native Americans observed that martins aggressively chased away predatory birds and insects, helping… Read more: Purple Martins Breeding at Eastern Neck Island

Visit Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge

Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge is a breathtaking 2,285 acre island that is home to an abundance of wildlife, paired with stunning views of the Chester River and Chesapeake Bay. It’s no wonder people from all around the area love to spend time exploring what the Refuge has to offer.

Our Mission

We are a volunteer run 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supporting Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge. We have approximately 250 members. Our volunteer members staff the Visitor Contact Station and the Friends’ Bookstore and Gift Shop and provide advice and information to our visitors. Friends volunteers are also directly involved in research, maintenance and the hosting of educational events. All of our income, whether it is from gift shop sales, memberships or donations, is dedicated to the support of the refuge and its programs.

We would love to have you join us!

Visitor Services at the Refuge

The Visitor Contact Station, Gift Shop and Bookstore is staffed by Friends volunteers. Opening hours are on every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 11.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m.  A knowledgeable volunteer will be there to help you with your visit.