Description
From the visitor center, two driving loops access approximately 35 wayside exhibits commemorating the defeat of Lord Cornwallis in the last significant battle in the fight for American independence. These driving loops pass through a combination of open mowed fields, former battlefields and both upland and riparian woodlands. By driving these loops, birders may expect to encounter bald eagles, osprey, woodland birds, and species that favor the open grasslands. Additionally, during the warmer months, a variety of butterflies and dragonflies are present. Whitetail deer, groundhogs, and squirrels are also plentiful and conspicuous.
Note: Entrance fee required.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Yorktown Battlefield, a unit of Colonial National Historical Park (as reported to eBird)
- Carolina Wren
- Bufflehead
- Laughing Gull
- Forster's Tern
- Common Loon
- Double-crested Cormorant
- Brown Pelican
- Turkey Vulture
- Bald Eagle
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
Amenities & Access Considerations
Amenities
- Visitor/Nature Center
- Fee
- Accessible
- Information
- Interpretive Nature Program
- Interpretive Trail
- Parking
- Phone
- Picnic
- Restrooms
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 1000 Colonial Parkway, Yorktown, Virginia 23690
From eastbound I-64, take exit 242B for Yorktown, to the Colonial Parkway. Follow the parkway to its end.
From westbound I-64, take exit 250B for Route 105 East (Fort Eustis Boulevard east) to Route 17 (George Washington Memorial Highway). Turn left (North) onto Route 17. Follow the signs to the Yorktown Battlefield.
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:
- National Park Service