Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve

Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve

About

This preserve is found on the Bay side of the Eastern Shore. Its 29 acres feature coastal beach, dune, and maritime forest habitats. The preserve provides habitat for the federally threatened northeastern beach tiger beetle (Cicindela dorsalis dorsalis). Coast bedstraw (Galium hispidulum), an herbaceous plant, grows on the dunes at the interface between open grassy areas and shaded areas where shrubs and trees dominate. During fall migration, the forest abounds with migratory songbirds and raptors resting and feeding before continuing their journey across the Chesapeake Bay.

A long boardwalk takes visitors through several natural communities, including a globally-rare Maritime Dune Woodland, and ends at a low bluff overlooking the Chesapeake Bay.

Details

Northampton County
Historic Site
Bayshore Rd
Cape Charles, VA 23310

 

In the Area

Historic Willis Wharf
Rte 603 off Hwy 13
Willis Wharf
Northampton Lumber
7409 Railroad St
Nassawadox