Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge protects habitat for the American crocodile and other rare species in North Key Largo, Florida Keys. The refuge itself is closed to the public, but you can stop at its headquarters on County Road 905 to walk the small Community Butterfly Garden and read its informative kiosks. The garden has native plants and may attract butterflies such as the endangered Schaus’ swallowtail. Crocodiles are not a likely sight here; come for a brief, quiet nature stop and a closer look at the refuge’s conservation work.

A refuge closed to public access

Established in 1980, Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge protects about 6,700 acres in North Key Largo. Its habitats include tropical hardwood hammock, mangrove forest, salt marsh and shallow open water. The refuge supports threatened and endangered wildlife, including the American crocodile, Key Largo woodrat and Schaus’ swallowtail butterfly.

The protected land and waters are not open for general public visits. The public visitor station and Community Butterfly Garden are at the refuge headquarters, at 10750 County Road 905. The garden is a place to learn about local butterflies and their habitat, not a trail into the refuge.

What you can see in the garden

The small garden has a short path and informative kiosks. Native plants attract pollinators, and the garden is associated with rare butterflies such as the Schaus’ swallowtail. Sightings are not guaranteed, and the garden is a brief stop rather than an extensive nature trail.

The refuge is also habitat for white-crowned pigeons and Stock Island tree snails. The visitor station can provide more context about the species and the land they depend on when it is open. Check its status before setting out, since the station may be closed.