Description
The 29-acre Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve, owned by Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation, has a long boardwalk that traverses several natural communities, including a Maritime Loblolly Pine Forest, and ends at a low bluff overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. The preserve provides habitat for the federally threatened northeastern beach tiger beetle and is part of the Lower Delmarva Important Bird Area. Over two hundred forty species of birds have been observed at this Preserve. Good birding can be found here year-round, but fall is particularly special. During fall bird migration, the forest abounds with migratory songbirds and raptors resting and feeding before continuing their journey across the Chesapeake Bay. Spring migration is also productive for songbirds. In winter, a diversity of waterfowl can be spotted out on the bay.
Notes:
- This property is part of the VDCR Division of Natural Heritage State Natural Area Preserve System. Preserves can be closed periodically for management activities, please always check the DCR page for information prior to visiting this area.
- Access is restricted to the boardwalk to protect the delicate habitat.
- There are no facilities on site.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve:
- Canada Goose
- Laughing Gull
- White Ibis
- Great Blue Heron
- Downy Woodpecker
- Pileated Woodpecker
- Northern Flicker
- Great Crested Flycatcher
- Red-eyed Vireo
- Blue Jay
262 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 6 May 2026 | 35 | mario balitbit |
| 3 May 2026 | 33 | mario balitbit |
| 3 May 2026 | 33 | Aylett Lipford |
| 2 May 2026 | 26 | Ben Gluhosky |
| 1 May 2026 | 15 | Mike Dorsey |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Site Amenities: Hiking Trails
Maps & Directions
Physical Address:
From US 13, turn west onto SR 184/ Stone Rd, then turn left on Fig St. Turn right on Mason Ave and then, almost immediately, make a very sharp left on Old Cape Charles Rd/ SR 641 and continue .4 miles. Turn right on Bayshore Rd and continue .6 miles as the road curves. Turn right onto Patrick Henry Ave. Park behind the building and head towards the kiosk to find the trailhead.
Site Information
Managed By:
Access Requirements:
Contact Information:
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.