Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Cat Point Creek Unit

Opened to the public in 2023, the 243-acre Cat Point Creek unit is a remnant of a several thousand-acre farm and vineyard, and the site of the Rappahannock Tribe’s ancestral capital city. The first point of interest for wildlife viewers is the new birding trail a short distance from the main road. With wide, well-mown paths and a gentle grade, it should be easy to find both grassland and woodland species while walking the loops. Adjacent to one trailhead is The Lodge, now owned by Rappahannock Tribe, which will serve as an Indigenous Environmental and Conservation Education Center. Across the road from The Lodge is an area where children can learn about wildlife and nature through play. A boat launch and a fishing pier can be found at the end of the road. Being out on Metompkin Bay is an excellent way to view the abundant wildlife, but the fishing pier is a good observation point for those who prefer to stay on land. The area remains an important spot for spawning fish, which offer a reliable food source for bald eagles, osprey, wading birds, and waterfowl. The mix of deciduous forest, mowed fields, scrub habitat, as well as a pond and tidal freshwater wetlands makes this a “one-stop shop” for wildlife viewers. The woods are alive in summer with breeding birds, deer, and other wildlife, and a beaver occasionally shows off for visitors at the small pond.

Notes:

• Hunting occurs at this site. Click here to see the current year’s schedule. If you are visiting during hunting seasons, please wear blaze orange or blaze pink for safety.