Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge — Attraction in Columbia

This place Rocks!!!! Super Rest stop, with a wooden trail thru the woods near the water where wildlife can be viewed, if you are lucky! Depending on the time of day, (and season) you could spot Turtles , lizards, frogs and perhaps an Otter or two! I hear tell American Alligators have been spotted! I have never seen any personally, but am always hopeful that I do. This wildlife preserve has Red Wolves, that are on the endangered list! Do stop in and check it out. Speak to the wildlife experts, and examine the many stuffed animals they have on display. The gift shop has many neat items to educate the little ones, who might like to become a park ranger and protect the wildlife in...

Beautiful place to walk around. Clean bathrooms! Free! We visited on a cooler day. I imagine on a warmer day there would be lots of wildlife to observe. For people with younger kiddos, be advised that there are places over the water with no railing. No big deal for older kiddos and adults. Edited to Add: We went back on a warm day and saw an abundance of turtles sunning! We also went inside the little museum. There are native animals on display. (Taxidermy) The kids were fascinated by all the little details on...

Beautiful around January/February when truly astounding amounts of migratory waterfowl can be observed. Notable species to watch out for at tundra swans and snow geese. A decent haul from civilization though, so plan to make a bathroom/snack stop on the way. Or plan to incorporate a visit to the park office of Lake Mattamuskeet, which has charming mini exhibits of lifelike taxidermied creatures, and very clean restrooms. Always remember as with any park or reserve: take only pictures, leave...