Nestled deep in the tranquil countryside of West Volusia lies a serene area known as Lake Woodruff National Wildlife refuge. 

The refuge, located in DeLeon Springs, was created in 1964 with the intention of providing migratory birds a sanctuary, and also to help balance the loss of important wetland ecosystems in Central Florida. 

The refuge covers a region where many habitats come together, offering a sanctuary to many different wildlife species that depend on these wetlands. The area represents an important conservation initiative. 

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, “The refuge is comprised of freshwater marshes, hardwood swamps, uplands, and numerous freshwater stream, lakes and canals.”

The area also boasts many trails and informational stations on the walkways to learn about Florida’s unique wildlife. 

While exploring Lake Woodruff, The Beacon got to speak with DeLeon Springs resident Morgan Keiser.

“I think Lake Woodruff is very special, and it’s a shame that a lot of people have never heard of it,” Keiser said. “If you live in the area, you know that it’s tucked away and kinda hidden from main roads, but once you make it down that road and start walking around, you’ll be speechless and wonder why you don’t spend more time out here.”

Lake Woodruff welcomes hunting 

While Lake Woodruff is a hidden gem among locals, most are not aware that the area also allows for hunting of deer and hogs during certain seasons. Hunting season ranges from Sept. 14 through Oct. 27; check the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website at https://www.fws.gov/refuge/lake-woodruff/visit-us/activities/hunting for more details. 

Swallow-tailed kites visit the refuge as a pit stop before heading all the way to South America. 

At any age, Lake Woodruff offers a free chance to get in touch with nature. Its paths are perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and taking in the beauty of Florida’s wetlands. Families, individuals and nature lovers may all relax, explore and enjoy the variety of wildlife and habitats that can be found within the refuge at this perfect location. The refuge is located at 2045 Mud Lake Road in DeLeon Springs, and is open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. seven days a week. 

A little history

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website provides some context for the early days of Lake Woodruff. 

After Florida became a United States territory in 1821, Maj. Joseph Woodruff acquired William’s 2,020-acre share of Spring Garden in 1823. The lake was renamed Lake Woodruff, and the refuge later took the same name. In 1952, a private landowner attempted to get about 3,000 acres east of Lake Woodruff for agriculture, constructing levees and installing two 2,400-gallon-per-minute pumps for drainage.

This move turned out to not work and was abandoned. Pine timber was cleared from Jones island in 1957-58, while pine, cypress and oak timber were removed from Tick and Dexter islands before the federal government purchased the land. Prior to acquisition, actions to remove timber were conducted on Tick Island.

In 1964, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service initiated the purchase of land for the refuge, gradually expanding the area that now makes the refuge whole. 

Wilderness Connect, a research group housed at the University of Montana campus, details more on the rich history of Lake Woodruff.

According to their research:

“The Native Americans who once lived here harvested the rich food supply and left behind mounds, middens, and artifacts dating back 10,000 years. 

“The native population began to dwindle after the Spanish explorers arrived in the early 1500s.” 

In 1823, Major Joseph Woodruff acquired the DeLeon Springs area and gave his name to the nearby lake. In 1964, the same year the Wilderness Act was passed, the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge was set aside as migratory bird habitat as well as Wilderness.”