National Wildlife Refuges are managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  Their primary purpose is to protect and, in some cases, restore wildlife and wildlife habitats.   They also have the mission to help the public discover and enjoy nature.  The National Wildlife Refuge System's extensive trails, boardwalks, observation decks, hunting and photography blinds, fishing piers and boat launches offer great opportunities to learn more about nature.  In Central Virginia, there 2 wildlife refuges to choose from: Rappahannock River, and Dismal Swamp.  The James River and Presque Isle refuges require an advanced reservation to visit and are not included in our hikes.  Note that hunting is permitted on the refuges – check the park Web sites for dates.  Those same Web sites provide extensive information about each refuge’s features and activities.