Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge
IUCN category IV (habitat/species management area)
View in Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Map showing the location of Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Map showing the location of Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge
LocationLanier County, Georgia, United States
Nearest cityLakeland, Georgia
Coordinates31°01′11″N 83°07′39″W / 31.01969910°N 83.12750244°W / 31.01969910; -83.12750244
Area4,049 acres (16.4 km2)
Established1985
Visitors20,000 (in 2005)
Governing bodyU.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
WebsiteBanks Lake National Wildlife Refuge

The Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a 4,049 acre (16.4 km2) National Wildlife Refuge located in Lanier County, Georgia. Banks Lake is a natural pocosin or sink of ancient geologic origin. The refuge was established in 1985 for the protection and conservation of this unique environment as well as migratory and resident wildlife.

An estimated 20,000 people visit the refuge each year. There is no dedicated budget or staff for the refuge; it is administered completely by the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.