The Virginia Natural Area Preserves System was established in the late 1980's to protect some of the most significant natural areas in the Commonwealth. Natural area dedication works in much the same way as a conservation easement by placing legally binding restrictions on future activities on a property. The Natural Area Preserve System includes examples of some of the rarest natural communities and rare species habitats in Virginia. This system now includes thirty dedicated natural areas totaling 17,553 acres. Each natural area preserve is managed primarily for the benefit of the rare plants, animals and natural communities found there.
Some preserves feature low-intensity public access facilities such as trails and parking.
These are open year-round during daylight hours but may be subject to temporary closure to protect sensitive species or during some management activities, such as prescribed burning. Access to other preserves is restricted but generally may be arranged by contacting the site owner or manager. Except for certain specific situations, camping, fires, firearms, unleashed pets, hunting, off-road vehicles and removal or destruction of plants, animals, minerals or historic artifacts are prohibited on all Virginia Natural Area Preserves. To learn more about DCR's approach for managing Virginia's Natural Area Preserves, see the NAP Management Guidelines . You'll need the Adobe Acrobat reader to view this file.