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Hollins Wildlife Management Area adventures

Hollins Wildlife Management Area Adventures

Hollins Wildlife Management Area offers a mix of forested hills and open lands in southwestern Virginia, providing excellent opportunities for hunting, hiking, and wildlife observation.

4,621
Acres Protected
Approx. 10 (informal trails and forest roads)
Miles of Trails
Data not specifically tracked, estimated moderate use primarily during hunting seasons
Annual Visitors
1980s (approximate)
Year Established

About Hollins Wildlife Management Area

 

Hollins Wildlife Management Area (WMA) encompasses approximately 4,621 acres of predominantly forested terrain in Roanoke County, Virginia. The area features rolling hills and ridge lines that form part of the western Blue Ridge Mountains, with a landscape dominated by mixed hardwood forests and pockets of open fields. Ecologically, the WMA supports a rich variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, and numerous small game species, making it popular among hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. Vegetative communities primarily consist of oak-hickory forests, which provide critical habitat for game and non-game species alike. The WMA is managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources with a focus on sustainable hunting, wildlife habitat conservation, and public recreation. History of the land points to a mixture of former farmland and timberland, now reverting to more natural conditions under active management. Recreational opportunities extend beyond hunting to hiking, wildlife photography, and bird watching. Though no developed campgrounds exist within the boundaries, visitors can access nearby state parks and forest lands for camping. The terrain offers several informal trails and forest roads for hiking and biking but does not have a widely established trail network. The area's remote feel and wooded slopes attract visitors looking for quiet nature experiences within a short drive from Roanoke city. Hollins WMA is noted for its balance of public access and effective stewardship of diverse wildlife habitats.

Highlights

Highlight

Good populations of white-tailed deer and wild turkey for hunting and viewing

Highlight

Mixed hardwood forests supporting diverse wildlife habitats

Highlight

Numerous forest roads and informal trails for hiking and mountain biking

Highlight

Close proximity to Roanoke city for easy access

Notable Natural Features

Mixed Oak-Hickory Forest

Dominant forest type providing essential habitat for game species like deer and turkey, as well as smaller mammals and songbirds.

Forest Roads and Trails

A network of unpaved forest roads and informal trails permit access for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife observation.

Wildlife Habitat Management Areas

Sections of the WMA are managed with habitat improvement practices such as controlled burns and selective timber harvest to enhance game populations.