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:
- Chipping Sparrow
- Northern Cardinal
- Blue Grosbeak
- Indigo Bunting
- Wood Duck
- Great Egret
- Great Blue Heron
- Bald Eagle
- Red-headed Woodpecker
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
193 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Aug 2026 | 4 | Jason Strickland |
| 1 Aug 2026 | 9 | Tristan Swartout |
| 30 Jul 2026 | 23 | Alex Bush |
| 25 Jul 2026 | 24 | John Faragher |
| 23 Jul 2026 | 6 | William McKellar |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
Other Site Amenities: Interpretive Program/Events, Visitor/Nature Center
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.
Site Information
Managed By:
- National Park Service
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.