Description
The Hickory Hollow Nature Area Preserve offers 3.5 miles of footpaths that meander through 250 acres of mixed pine-hardwood forest, ravines and Cabin Swamp that form an important habitat for migratory songbirds, wild turkey and a rare plants. This site, protected from development by the Northern Neck Audubon Chapter, is home to many interesting breeding birds including Acadian flycatcher, hooded, and black-and-white warblers. The park is also home to over 500 plant species, including beautiful wildflowers. Careful lookers can be treated to rare orchids and emerging mushrooms after a heavy, late summer rain. There are abundant springs and seeps in the ravine areas that harbor a variety of species, including the rare Tidewater amphipod, a small crustacean. Colored markers mark the nature trails and a variety of accompanying resources including a trail map, plant list, and tree guide can be accessed on the Northern Neck Audobon Chapter’s website.
Please remember: Hickory Hollow is a Natural Area Preserve and as such, contains sensitive natural communities. Respect this area by staying on designated paths, leaving pets at home, not removing anything from the area, and packing out all trash.
Wildlife Sightings
99 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at Hickory Hollow Natural Area Preserve:
- Black Vulture
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Downy Woodpecker
- American Crow
- Brown Creeper
- White-throated Sparrow
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 14 Feb 2026 | 6 | Robert Marrone |
| 4 Jan 2026 | 4 | Maryanna Fisher |
| 16 Dec 2025 | 3 | Leslie Fellows |
| 29 Nov 2025 | 14 | Bryan Campbell |
| 9 Nov 2025 | 3 | Misha Preheim |
Amenities & Accessibility
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Amenities: Hiking Trails
Accessibility Considerations
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
Maps & Directions
Location Coordinates: 37.77182, -76.44534
From Kilmarnock, follow VA 3 towards Lancaster. Just before you reach Lancaster, turn right onto VA 604. The preserve is on your left.
Site Information
Access Requirements:
- Free, Daily
Contact Information:
- DCR, Chesapeake Bay Region Steward: 804-225-2303, Zach.Bradford@dcr.virginia.gov
- 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.


