Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Wilna Unit

The Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a relatively young and growing refuge in the Northern Neck. The refuge was founded in 1996 largely to help protect critical habitat for bald eagles and other migratory species. Large concentrations of bald eagles can be found on the river year-round. In 2007, areas of the refuge were designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by the National Audubon Society for their high bald eagle concentration.

The Wilna Unit of the Refuge, acquired in 1999, is accessible off of Sandy Lane. A gravel lane provides access through early growth forest and should reward early morning visitors with sightings of numerous breeding and migrant songbirds. The road continues through recently cutover forest and managed grasslands, terminating near a pond, which hosts herons, turtles, frogs, and many interesting dragonflies. A launch site is available onto the pond for canoes, kayaks, and small boats (no trailer access and gasoline engines are prohibited) for exploration by water.

Breeding grassland species include grasshopper sparrow, eastern meadowlark, wild turkey, and northern bobwhite. Three trails are available. A map of the unit may be found on the website.

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.