Elklick Woodlands State Natural Area Preserve
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Elklick Woodlands State Natural Area Preserve is located in Fauquier County, Virginia and encompasses 1,058 acres of diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, and steep slopes.
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Summary
It is home to several rare and endangered species, such as the Virginia big-eared bat and the northern long-eared bat.
There are several reasons to visit Elklick Woodlands State Natural Area Preserve, including hiking, birdwatching, and nature observation. The preserve has over 7 miles of hiking trails, including a loop trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
One of the most notable points of interest in the preserve is the Elklick Woodlands Natural Area, which is characterized by mature oak-hickory forests, rocky outcroppings, and rare wildflowers. Visitors can also explore the preserve's wetland areas, which host a variety of amphibians and reptiles.
Interesting facts about Elklick Woodlands State Natural Area Preserve include its designation as a Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation Natural Area Preserve, which means it is protected for its ecological significance. The preserve is also home to several historic structures, including a former grist mill and a 19th-century farmhouse.
The best time of year to visit Elklick Woodlands State Natural Area Preserve is in the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and the foliage is at its most vibrant. Visitors should be aware that the preserve is only open during daylight hours and that some trails may be closed during certain seasons to protect wildlife habitats.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Bull Run Regional Park
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Outpost 60 Campsite
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Site 1
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Site 2
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Site 3
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Site 14
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Flatlick Stream Valley Park
Chalet Woods Park
Stone Crossing
Cub Run Park
Westfields SS