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Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge

Wattsville, Maryland · Accomack County

Since this site is only accessed by the public during the hunting season, it is truly a refuge for a variety of wetland and woodland birds. It also holds a unique treasure called Lucky Boy fen - one of only four sea-level fens found in Virginia. This unique feature of the refuge is located just above the highest tide l…

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About Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge

Since this site is only accessed by the public during the hunting season, it is truly a refuge for a variety of wetland and woodland birds. It also holds a unique treasure called Lucky Boy fen - one of only four sea-level fens found in Virginia. This unique feature of the refuge is located just above the highest tide levels, at the base of a slope where abundant groundwater discharges. Sea-level fens are nutrient-poor, maritime seepage wetlands, confined to a few sites with an unusual combination of environmental conditions for the mid-Atlantic.

How to Get There

Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge is located on the mainland, east of Wattsville in Accomack County, Virginia, immediately adjacent to Highway 175, which provides access to the Town of Chincoteague and Chincoteague NWR.Take Virginia Route 13 to Route 175.Travel east on 175 toward Chincoteague IslandThe refuge is on the right after about 5 miles.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge

Heading to Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge?

No central reservation system listed for Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/4037) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge?

Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge is located on the mainland, east of Wattsville in Accomack County, Virginia, immediately adjacent to Highway 175, which provides access to the Town of Chincoteague and Chincoteague NWR.Take Virginia Route 13 to Route 175.Travel east on 175 toward Chincoteague IslandThe refuge is on the right after about 5 miles.

How do I contact Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge?

You can reach the park at email: fw5rw_cnwr@fws.gov.