Description
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources’ Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area is 5,217 acres of woodlands along the Chickahominy River managed primarily for upland species. The uplands, mainly hardwood and pine stands, are punctuated by several mowed, cultivated, and successional fields. Marshy guts and tidal creeks cut into the forest and further accentuate the site’s diverse habitat. The main north-south road (Rt. 621), as well as a number of side trails, provides access to the extensive woodlands. Visits may yield sightings of many upland and wetland plant and animal species including deer, and turkey and nesting and migrant passerines. From bluffs overlooking the Chickahominy River, herons and bald eagles can often be seen fishing.
Notes:
- To Access the Site: A Restore the Wild Membership, Virginia hunting license, freshwater fishing license, boat registration, or an access permit is required.
- This site may be closed during certain times of year for hunting or land management. See seasonal access information on the Chickahominy WMA website.
- If you are visiting this site during hunting seasons, please wear blaze orange/pink for safety
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area (as reported to eBird)
- Canada Goose
- Bufflehead
- Mourning Dove
- Ring-billed Gull
- American Herring Gull
- Double-crested Cormorant
- Bald Eagle
- White-throated Sparrow
- Yellow-rumped Warbler
- Northern Cardinal
Amenities & Access Considerations
Amenities
- Camping
- Fee
- Hiking Trails
- Information
- Parking
- Restrooms
- Kayak/Canoe Launch
- Boat Ramp
Maps & Directions
Physical Location: off of Rt. 621/ Eagle’s Nest Rd.
From State Route 5, eight miles east of Charles City Courthouse, take Rt 623/ Wilcox Neck Rd north. Travel about 3.0 miles to Rt. 621/ Eagle’s Nest Rd.; turn right and travel east 4.0 miles to the main parking area at the boat launch. Kiosks with pull-offs/ small parking areas are located along the way and provide access to rustic trails.
What to Know Before Visiting
The Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail is a network of more than 500 premier wildlife viewing sites across the state. Walk a nature trail, paddle a river, or enjoy a scenic overlook and you’ll soon understand what makes Virginia a premier destination for birding and wildlife viewing.