Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge

06/12/2026

Swallow-tailed kites "kettling" riding rising columns of warm air (thermals) to gain altitude while conserving energy above the Live Oak Trail parking lot.

06/11/2026

We are incredibly grateful for the outstanding support from the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance and the skilled volunteers from IBEW Locals 756 & 606, UA Local 295, IUOE Local 673, and Teamsters Local 385 for transforming the Tick Island dock at Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge.

Your hard work has made a lasting impact on refuge operations and the community we serve. Thank you for your skill, your service, and your commitment to conservation!

A deteriorated dock. A dilapidated fence. A deserted cabin. All on a remote island only accessible by boat.

Years of weathering had taken a toll on Tick Island, one of the most remote areas of Florida’s Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. A group of skilled union members were on a mission to make the location accessible for the next generation last spring.

Volunteer leaders conducted a site visit in March to coordinate logistics. A month later, members of IBEW Local 756, IBEW Local 606, UA Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 295, IUOE Local 673 and Teamsters Local 385 replaced the dock, repaired the entrance fence and restored steps to the cabin all within a weekend.

Because of this project, Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge staff envision future youth skills camps, paddling trips, environmental education events and more at Tick Island.

At the end of the day, this project is about giving back, building the community and not letting places like this go to waste and rot away.

06/09/2026

Leap Into Discovery: Florida Frogs After Dark
Date: Friday, July 31
Location: Lake Woodruff NWR Classroom, 4490 Grand Ave, DeLeon Springs FL 32130
Time: 7:00-9:00pm (7:00-8:00pm Presentation, travel to trail, 8:15 – 9:30pm hike and listen
Register at: https://bit.ly/frogsafterdark

Spend an evening exploring the fascinating world of Florida frogs through a blend of classroom discovery and field experience. The program begins with an engaging presentation covering common Florida frog species, identification tips using frog calls, the frog life cycle, and key differences between frogs and toads. Afterward, participants will head outdoors on a guided night hike to listen for frog choruses and put their new identification skills to use in the field. Whether you are new to frog identification or looking to sharpen your nature knowledge, this program offers an opportunity to experience Florida’s wetlands in a whole new way.
Program content and format is best suited for individuals ages 10 and older.

05/21/2026

Community Fishing Day @ Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge
DATE: 6/13
START TIME: 09:00 AM, END TIME: 12:00 PM
LOCATION: 4490 Grand Ave. DeLeon Springs, FL 32130
REGISTER AT: https://bit.ly/communityfishingday
Cast a line and connect with the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge 🎣
Join us for nature-filled adventures at our Community Fishing Day where anglers of all ages and experience levels are invited to enjoy a relaxing morning outdoors. Whether you are casting a line for the very first time or have years of fishing experience, this family-friendly event is designed to connect people with nature, recreation, and the unique beauty of the Refuge.
Participants will have the opportunity to meet local exhibitors sharing information about outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the region, while also enjoying a variety of hands-on activities for all ages.
Throughout the morning, guests can explore interactive educational stations focused on fish identification, ethical fishing practices, how to rig a fishing pole, and the important role aquatic plants play in healthy ecosystems. Local Scouting troops and 4-H groups will also lead engaging activities highlighting other wildlife species that call the Refuge home, creating opportunities to learn more about the diverse habitats and natural wonders found throughout this special public land.

05/11/2026

Community Fishing Day @ Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge

DATE: 6/13
START TIME: 09:00 AM, END TIME: 12:00 PM
LOCATION: 4490 Grand Ave. DeLeon Springs, FL 32130
REGISTER AT: https://bit.ly/communityfishingday

Cast a line and connect with the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge 🎣

Join us for nature-filled adventures at our Community Fishing Day where anglers of all ages and experience levels are invited to enjoy a relaxing morning outdoors. Whether you are casting a line for the very first time or have years of fishing experience, this family-friendly event is designed to connect people with nature, recreation, and the unique beauty of the Refuge.

Participants will have the opportunity to meet local exhibitors sharing information about outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the region, while also enjoying a variety of hands-on activities for all ages.

Throughout the morning, guests can explore interactive educational stations focused on fish identification, ethical fishing practices, how to rig a fishing pole, and the important role aquatic plants play in healthy ecosystems. Local Scouting troops and 4-H groups will also lead engaging activities highlighting other wildlife species that call the Refuge home, creating opportunities to learn more about the diverse habitats and natural wonders found throughout this special public land.

04/10/2026

Lake Woodruff NWR is proud to be part of the “Wings of the West” trail! DeLand native and artist Erica Group stopped by with members of her wonderful family to deliver a beautiful new set of wings. Our old ones endured many storms and flew many miles.

We’re excited to share this vibrant addition with our visitors. Come see our wings—and be sure to explore the rest of the stunning “Wings of the West” murals along the mural trail!

03/17/2026

Today's fun included a guided hike, archery, and crafts. You still have time to participate

Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Outdoors is an interactive day camp experience where youth and their accompanying adult learn side by side.
DATE: 3/16-3/20
START TIME: 09:00 AM
LOCATION: 4490 Grand Ave. DeLeon Springs, FL 32130
REGISTER AT: https://bit.ly/aimcastexplore
Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Camp(ish) Outdoors is an interactive day camp experience where youth and their accompanying adult learn side by side. Each day includes hands-on instruction in fishing, archery, and wilderness exploration, building practical outdoor skills in a supportive setting. Families may choose individual days or participate in the entire week. Please note: this is not a drop-off camp, adults must remain onsite and engaged with their youth participant. All equipment and supplies will be provided. Open to youth ages 8 to 18.
Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Camp(ish) Outdoors is an interactive day camp experience where youth and their accompanying adult learn side by side. Each day includes hands-on instruction in fishing, archery, and wilderness exploration, building practical outdoor skills in a supportive setting. Families may choose individual days or participate in the entire week. Please note: this is not a drop-off camp, adults must remain onsite and engaged with their youth participant. All equipment and supplies will be provided. Open to youth ages 8 to 18.

03/16/2026

There is still time left! You can join us through Friday to brush up on some outdoor skills. Here's a peek at what we did today.

Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Outdoors is an interactive day camp experience where youth and their accompanying adult learn side by side.
DATE: 3/16-3/20
START TIME: 09:00 AM
LOCATION: 4490 Grand Ave. DeLeon Springs, FL 32130
REGISTER AT: https://bit.ly/aimcastexplore

Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Camp(ish) Outdoors is an interactive day camp experience where youth and their accompanying adult learn side by side. Each day includes hands-on instruction in fishing, archery, and wilderness exploration, building practical outdoor skills in a supportive setting. Families may choose individual days or participate in the entire week. Please note: this is not a drop-off camp, adults must remain onsite and engaged with their youth participant. All equipment and supplies will be provided. Open to youth ages 8 to 18.
Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Camp(ish) Outdoors is an interactive day camp experience where youth and their accompanying adult learn side by side. Each day includes hands-on instruction in fishing, archery, and wilderness exploration, building practical outdoor skills in a supportive setting. Families may choose individual days or participate in the entire week. Please note: this is not a drop-off camp, adults must remain onsite and engaged with their youth participant. All equipment and supplies will be provided. Open to youth ages 8 to 18.

03/10/2026

The Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Limited Entry Spring Family Turkey Hunt will occur: March 13-15, and March 21-23.
Units Affected:
Volusia Unit (Between Highland Park Road and Shell Road), Eastside Unit (East Side Road) and Western Unit (accessible by boat only)
Please obey posted signs.
Thank you for your understanding.

03/09/2026

Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Outdoors is an interactive day camp experience where youth and their accompanying adult learn side by side.
DATE: 3/16-3/20
START TIME: 09:00 AM
LOCATION: 4490 Grand Ave. DeLeon Springs, FL 32130
REGISTER AT: https://www.eventbrite.com/.../aim-cast-explore-spring...
Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Camp(ish) Outdoors is an interactive day camp experience where youth and their accompanying adult learn side by side. Each day includes hands-on instruction in fishing, archery, and wilderness exploration, building practical outdoor skills in a supportive setting. Families may choose individual days or participate in the entire week. Please note: this is not a drop-off camp, adults must remain onsite and engaged with their youth participant. All equipment and supplies will be provided. Open to youth ages 8 to 18.