The John Heinz NWR at Tinicum is located in Philadelphia and Delaware Counties, Pennsylvania about 1 mile from Philadelphia International Airport. The refuge was established by an act of Congress in 1972 to protect the largest remaining freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania; approximately 200 acres. When acquisition i
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 215-365-3118 · johnheinznwr@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Mario Lanza Boulevard, Shawnee Street, Hog Island Road, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Is hunting allowed?
Yes — hunting is permitted here in season, with the required state license and tags. Check seasons and unit rules.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Often restricted to protect wildlife — many refuges limit or prohibit pets. Check this refuge before you go.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Wildlife Refuge land.
Nearby sites
NPS Photo National Park Service Gloria Dei Church National Historic Site
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
NPS Photo National Park Service Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
