Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in northwestern Alabama, Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge spans an area that is characterized by underground streams and cave systems, essential for the survival of the endangered Alabama cavefish. Established in 1997, the refuge serves as a critical habitat for this rare species, which is found nowhere else in the world. Besides its biological significance, the refuge is a gateway for adventurers seeking purer forms of natural exploration, offering a tranquil environment undisturbed by heavy tourist activity. The refuge is oriented towards the conservation of its rare karst landscape and rich biodiversity, featuring a variety of habitats from grasslands to wetlands. Though primarily closed to the public to protect the sensitive ecosystem, its proximity to Florence, Alabama, allows visitors to enjoy nearby amenities while appreciating the refuge's conservation work.
