Description
- This natural area has one of the most significant marshes in the Chesapeake Bay for marsh-nesting birds and shoreline birds. It is also home to a federally protected insect, the northeastern beach tiger beetle. The majority of the preserve is a salt marsh community. Living in the highest wetland area is saltbush and wax myrtle. Because of the preserve's location along marshes and bay coves, numerous invertebrates live here attracting rare birds such as the American oystercatcher, willet and greater yellowlegs. In addition, over 30 species of waterfowl have been documented at this preserve. Hiking and bird-watching are the two favorite recreation opportunities enjoyed.
Recreation - Civil War General Robert E. Lee's birthplace, George Washington's Birthplace National Monument and Westmoreland State Park are about a 40 minute drive north on Rt. 3. Westmoreland State Park offers overnight facilities in addition to many other amenities. Climate - Virginia generally has mild winters and warm humid summers. The eastern portion of the state has winter temperatures averaging above 36 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celsius). The state's summer temperatures have little variation. The eastern portion of Virginia generally experiences temperatures above 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26 Celsius). High humidity along with warm temperatures can be uncomfortable. Location -
From Kilmarnock, Virginia travel north on Rt. 200 for approximately 4.5 miles to Rt. 606. Turn right heading east on Rt. 606 and travel 2 miles to Rt. 605. Turn left heading north and travel .9 mile to Cloverdale Road. Turn right onto Cloverdale Road and go .5 mile to Guarding Point Lane. Bearing left, travel .2 mile until the pavement changes to gravel. Continue on the gravel road making a final left turn which leads you to a parking area about .5 mile down on the right.
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