Airfield 4-H Conference Center

Important Notices

COVID-19 & the VBWTBefore heading out to visit a site on the Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail, be sure to check if that site has any COVID-19 policies or closures in place. This information is typically posted on a site's own website.

Description

Airfield 4-H Conference Center is a multi-use facility located in a natural, serene setting on the banks of the beautiful 105-acre Airfield Lake. Birds and wildlife are abundant on Airfield’s secluded 218 acre property. Mammals, large and small, are often observed including deer, beaver, rabbits, squirrels, and chipmunks. Bald eagles, a large variety of waterfowl and wading birds may be observed throughout the year. Red-headed woodpecker, pileated woodpecker, wild turkey, brown-headed nuthatch, blue-grey gnatcatcher, eastern kingbird, pine warbler, and yellow-throated warbler are just some of the bird species you may observe during spring and summer. Wildlife viewing amenities include a boardwalk and gazebo on Lake Airfield, canoe rentals, a forested nature trail, and lakeside overlooks on the backside of each lodge. Stop by the check-in desk to pick up a map of the grounds or to rent a canoe.

A birding pamphlet with a species list is available on-site at their check-in desk. Future wildlife viewing enhancements plans include an expanded trail system with more boardwalks and nature trails, elevated lookouts, interpretive signs, and an ADA accessible fishing pier and canoe/kayak launch.

The Airfield’s central location combined with its natural habitats, lodging, and camping facilities make it a desirable location to stay the night for any birding and wildlife enthusiast exploring the Tidewater Loop. It is also just a short drive from Richmond, Williamsburg and South Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Note: It’s recommended to call the Airfield Center in advance to ensure that an event is not scheduled during the time of your visit.

Directions

Physical Address: 15189 Airfield Rd, Wakefield, VA 23888

From Previous Site on the Tidewater Loop of the VBWT:

From Big Woods Wildlife Management Area, head south to return to SR 622 (Cedar Sign Post Rd.) and head towards SR 740 (Walter Lanier Rd.). Turn on SR 740, heading east. Continue east as SR 740 becomes SR 729 (Turkey Pen Rd.). Turn right on Airfield Rd. to enter the Center’s grounds. Follow this road to the parking lot. The Center’s check-in desk is located inside the conference building just east of the parking lot.

Location & Directions

View on Google Maps

Site Information

Birds Recently Seen at Airfield 4-H Conference Center (as reported to eBird)

  • Canada Goose
  • Mallard
  • Mourning Dove
  • Chimney Swift
  • Killdeer
  • Solitary Sandpiper
  • Turkey Vulture
  • Red-tailed Hawk
  • Belted Kingfisher
  • Red-bellied Woodpecker

Seasonal Bird Observations

Facilities

  • Camping
  • Food
  • Hiking Trails
  • Lodging
  • Parking
  • Phone
  • Picnic
  • Restrooms