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Wildlife Management Area · Virginia

Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area

Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area is a protected natural region in southeastern Virginia offering diverse habitats for wildlife observation, hunting, and fishing along the Nottoway River.

Wildlife Management Area1,2384+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

1,238

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area

Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area is a protected natural region in southeastern Virginia offering diverse habitats for wildlife observation, hunting, and fishing along the Nottoway River.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area covers over 1,200 acres in Brunswick County, Virginia, and is situated along the scenic banks of the Nottoway River. The area is managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and serves as a crucial habitat for a variety of native wildlife including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and numerous fish species. The terrain encompasses forested wetlands, river bottomlands, and mixed hardwood pine forests, providing vital ecosystem services and excellent opportunities for nature-based recreation. Historically, the site includes remnants of the old ferry crossing that once connected communities across the Nottoway River, reflecting its importance in regional transport and commerce during the 18th and 19th centuries. Henderson Ferry WMA attracts hunters with regulated seasons for deer, turkey, and small game while also drawing anglers to the river for bass, catfish, and other freshwater species. Non-consumptive activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography benefit from accessible trails and river viewpoints. The WMA offers a quiet, natural setting away from urban centers, making it particularly appealing for those seeking solitude and wildlife encounters. The Nottoway River corridor here plays an important role as a migratory bird flyway and supports aquatic species diversity. Visitors appreciate the blend of river access and forest habitat, offering a range of seasonal outdoor recreation possibilities throughout the year.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Scenic Hikes in Middlesex Fells Reservation★ 7.5⌖ 26 miScenic Hiking
Boston

Scenic Hikes in Middlesex Fells Reservation

Explore scenic hikes at Middlesex Fells Reservation near Boston, MA, featuring the challenging Skyline Trail and the peaceful Virginia Wood Trail. Ideal for families and nature enthusiasts, it offers diverse terrains and beautiful views.

Scenic HikingView Details→
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area★ 4.2⌖ 28 miBoating
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area

Kerr Lake State Recreation Area

Explore Kerr Lake State Recreation Area near Henderson, NC, perfect for boating, fishing, and camping. Enjoy scenic views and peaceful surroundings. Drive-in access makes it family-friendly with activities for all. Best visited in spring and fall.

Occoneechee State Park★ 8.2⌖ 30 miFishing
Occoneechee State Park

Occoneechee State Park

Explore Occoneechee State Park near Clarksville, Virginia, offering scenic trails for hiking and birdwatching. Ideal for fishing enthusiasts, especially in spring and fall. Kid-friendly with ample picnic spots and quiet year-round.

Paddling on Kerr Lake in Henderson★ 7.5⌖ 30 miPaddling
Henderson

Paddling on Kerr Lake in Henderson

Explore Kerr Lake in Henderson with its 800 miles of shoreline perfect for paddling, kayaking, and canoeing. Enjoy peaceful waters and abundant wildlife with easy drive-in access. Ideal for beginner-friendly adventures in spring and fall.

Medoc Mountain State Park★ 5.8⌖ 32 miHiking
Medoc Mountain State Park

Medoc Mountain State Park

Explore the serene landscapes of Medoc Mountain State Park in Hollister, NC. Enjoy easy hiking trails, fishing along Fishing Creek, and abundant birding opportunities in this family-friendly park. Best visited in spring and fall for mild weather and vibrant scenery.

Twin Lakes State Park★ 5.6⌖ 36 miCamping
Twin Lakes State Park

Twin Lakes State Park

Explore Twin Lakes State Park with serene lakes perfect for fishing and kayaking. Enjoy camping, hiking on easy to moderate trails, and wildlife observation in this peaceful, historic Virginia park.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Scenic Nottoway River frontage with boat access✦ Diverse habitats including bottomland hardwoods and wetlands✦ Opportunities for waterfowl and deer hunting✦ Historic ferry crossing site marks local heritage
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Boating

Available in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Canoeing

Available in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Kayaking

Available in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; hunting and fishing require appropriate Virginia state licenses and permits.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

South Hill
⌖ 7.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

South Hill, Virginia

A quiet Southern town offering easy access to tranquil lakes, forest trails, and gentle outdoor activities perfect for families and casual adventurers.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Brunswick
⌖ 8.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brunswick, Virginia

A quiet, rural town offering peaceful outdoor escapes with waterways and forests ideal for paddling and hiking lovers.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Lawrenceville
⌖ 9.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lawrenceville, Virginia

A quiet rural town offering access to peaceful river paddling, forest hiking, and nearby state parks with classic Virginia piedmont outdoor experiences.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Littleton
⌖ 19.66 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Littleton, North Carolina

A quiet riverside town offering serene paddling, birdwatching, and easy access to natural habitats along the Roanoke River.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Boydton
⌖ 21.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Boydton, Virginia

A quiet small town offering peaceful access to lakeside paddling, fishing, and forest trails in southern Virginia’s rural landscape.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Gastons
⌖ 24.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gastons, North Carolina

A quiet, rural community offering peaceful outdoor experiences with access to nearby waterways and natural areas ideal for paddling and hiking.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Henderson Ferry Wildlife Management Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Lake Gaston Tritoon Rental: 22' 150HP Boat for Tubing & WakeboardingHenrico, North Carolina · 15.38 mi away
All Adventures· Northampton Marine

Lake Gaston Tritoon Rental: 22' 150HP Boat for Tubing & Wakeboarding

Jump from shoreline to wake with a 22' Tritoon on Lake Gaston—powerful enough for tubing and wakeboarding yet spacious for families. Three-day minimum rentals, clear safety rules, and local refueling at Washburns Marina make this a reliable choice for splash-first weekends.

3–14 days (daily rentals available; typical day 6–8 hours)

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.