Okefenokee Education, Conservation and Experience

Originally formed more than 6,500 years ago, the Okefenokee Swamp is the largest blackwater wetland in North America and one of the most well-conserved and intact freshwater ecosystems in the world —a wild, awe-inspiring place where blackwater flows and biodiversity thrives.

As the nonprofit partner of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and the State of Georgia, Okefenokee Swamp Park (OSP) is on the front lines of conservation and education—welcoming thousands of visitors to Waycross and Folkston each year for immersive, hands-on experiences in the swamp’s unmatched natural setting.

Your gift helps ensure that the Okefenokee remains accessible, protected, and a source of inspiration for generations to come.

Why Your Support Matters:

Preservation & Access: Your donation helps maintain trails, boardwalks, and park facilities that offer safe, engaging access to the swamp’s beauty.

Education & Outreach: With a passionate education team led by Katie Antczak, OSP sparks curiosity and stewardship through field trips, nature shows, summer camps, and school partnerships.

Leadership in Conservation: We're pursuing UNESCO World Heritage designation, restoring native habitats, and training the next generation of environmental leaders.

Economic Impact: OSP serves as a cultural and economic catalyst in rural Georgia, drawing visitors and enriching the region through nature-based tourism and programming.

We invite you to make a gift alongside our dedicated community of supporters who believe in a wild and thriving future for the Okefenokee. Your generosity sustains daily operations, supports our interpretive staff, and helps us improve our exhibits and facilities to inspire every visitor.

Together, we can preserve this globally significant wetland while deepening public understanding and appreciation for its unique ecological and cultural value.

Thank you for considering a gift to this wildly important work.