Description
The Port Royal Unit is one section of the much-larger Rappahannock River Valley NWR. This 125 acre site protects critical floodplain habitat on the river’s edge and is managed as grassland and shrubland habitat for species such as vesper and grasshopper sparrows. A mowed trail provides access to the Rappahannock River, host to year-round concentrations of bald eagles and wintering waterfowl.
The newly established Port Royal Water Trail has a stop on this unit of the Refuge.
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.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Port Royal Unit (as reported to eBird)
- Canada Goose
- Bufflehead
- Hooded Merganser
- Forster's Tern
- Turkey Vulture
- Bald Eagle
- Red-shouldered Hawk
- Belted Kingfisher
- Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
Amenities & Access Considerations
Amenities
- Accessible
- Hiking Trails
- Information
- Parking
- Kayak/Canoe Launch
- Observation Platform
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 1211 Caroline Street, Port Royal, VA 22535
From Tappahannock, head north on Tidewater Trail/US-17, turn right onto A.P. Hill Boulevard/US-301, turn right onto Caroline Street, and the parking area is 0.2 miles ahead on the right.
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.
Site Information
Managed By:
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service