Description
Historic Fort Huger extends approximately 1,130 feet along the James River and spans 22 acres. It is a well-preserved abandoned Civil War Fort in Isle of Wight County, situated on a strategic bluff on the south side of the James River. This historic gem is dominated by hardwood forests with a bridge crossing a cypress swamp. The fort itself offers open grassy areas. A variety of songbirds breed at this site including summer tanager, yellow-throated and prothonotary warblers and blue-gray gnatcatchers. Through the trees you can glimpse the James River where wintering waterfowl can gather in abundance. Osprey, terns and gulls circle overhead.
The site’s historic features include a Civil War encampment located outside the fort and a self-guided walking trail along the original 1861 pathway and fort interior. Interpretive signage describes the fort’s historical significance: its strategic role in naval warfare during 1861-62, its construction by free blacks and enslaved people and a view of the modern day James River Reserve Fleet.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Fort Huger:
- American Crow
- Tufted Titmouse
116 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 30 Jan 2026 | 2 | Jason Strickland |
| 22 Dec 2025 | 5 | Jason Strickland |
| 18 Dec 2025 | 10 | Jason Strickland |
| 13 Nov 2025 | 2 | Jason Strickland |
| 6 Nov 2025 | 13 | Jason Strickland |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Site Amenities: Hiking Trails, Interpretive Program/Events
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 15080 Talcott Terrace, Smithfield, VA, 23430
From Surry, head east on VA-10 E/Colonial Trail E, turn left onto SR-617/Bacons Castle Trail, turn right onto SR-628/Burnt Mill Rd, turn left onto Fort Huger Dr, slight right onto SR-686/Tylers Beach Rd, turn left onto Woodmere Ave, turn left onto Lawnes Neck Dr, turn right onto Talcott Ter and follow it to the parking area.
Site Information
Managed By:
- 0
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.