Description
The Guard Shore Tract of Saxis Wildlife Management Area offers a myriad of possibilities for wildlife viewing depending upon the time of year. The extensive open bay ecosystem provides a vast viewing area to scan for wading birds, waterfowl, terns, and gulls. mudflats and sand spits exposed at low tide may attract feeding shorebirds, especially during migration. The access road traverses a salt marsh where a fortunate summer observer can expect to hear Clapper Rails or possibly catch glimpses of Seaside and Saltmarsh sparrows. The site’s maritime loblolly pine stand may offer endless migrant passerine viewing possibilities.
Notes:
- To Access the Site: A Restore the Wild Membership, Virginia hunting license, freshwater fishing license, boat registration, or an access permit is required.
- This site may be closed during certain times of year for hunting or land management. See seasonal access information on the Saxis WMA website.
- If visiting during hunting seasons, please wear blaze orange/pink for safety.
Wildlife Sightings
143 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at Guard Shore Tract, Saxis Wildlife Management Area:
- Virginia Rail
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 26 Jun 2026 | 1 | Baxter Beamer |
| 21 Apr 2026 | 18 | Mary Alice Koeneke |
| 21 Apr 2026 | 18 | Glenn Koppel |
| 21 Apr 2026 | 18 | Martin Carlin |
| 31 Mar 2026 | 6 | Leah Dodd |
Amenities & Accessibility
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Kayak/Canoe Launch
- Birdability Report Available
Accessibility Considerations
This location has a Birdability Site Review available
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
Maps & Directions
Physical Location: Guard Shore Rd, Bloxom, VA, 23308
From Cape Charles, head north on US-13/Lankford Hwy, turn right onto US-13 Bus N/Coastal Blvd, at the traffic circle, continue straight onto VA-316/Greenbush Rd/Hopeton Rd/Bayside Dr, turn left onto Guardshore Rd, and follow it for approximately 3.5 miles to the parking area.
Site Information
Managed By:
- VA Dept. of Wildlife Resources
Access Requirements:
- Daily. Restore the Wild Membership, hunting license, freshwater fishing license, boat registration, or an access permit is required.
Contact Information:
- Phone: 804-829-6580
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.