Description
From the visitor center, two driving loops access approximately 35 wayside exhibits commemorating the defeat of Lord Cornwallis in the last significant battle in the fight for American independence. These driving loops pass through a combination of open mowed fields, former battlefields and both upland and riparian woodlands. By driving these loops, birders may expect to encounter Bald Eagles, Osprey, woodland birds, and species that favor the open grasslands. Additionally, during the warmer months, a variety of butterflies and dragonflies are present. Whitetail deer, groundhogs, and squirrels are also plentiful and conspicuous.
Wildlife Sightings
181 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at Yorktown Battlefield, a unit of Colonial National Historical Park:
- Wood Duck
- Carolina Wren
- White-throated Sparrow
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 28 Feb 2026 | 3 | Jason Strickland |
| 12 Feb 2026 | 24 | Robert Steele |
| 31 Jan 2026 | 6 | William McKellar |
| 14 Jan 2026 | 18 | James Cornelius |
| 10 Jan 2026 | 31 | T Bird |
Amenities & Accessibility
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
- Birdability Report Available
Other Amenities: Interpretive Program/Events, Visitor/Nature Center, Wildlife Viewing by Car, Historical Site
Accessibility Considerations
This location has a Birdability Site Review available
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 1000 Colonial Parkway, Yorktown, Virginia 23690
From Newport News, head west on I-64 toward Williamsburg/Richmond, take exit 250B toward VA-105 E/Fort Eustis Blvd, turn left onto Jefferson Ave, turn right onto VA-105 E/Fort Eustis Blvd, turn left onto US-17 N/George Washington Memorial Hwy, turn right onto Cook Rd, turn left onto Ballard St, sharp right onto Colonial National Historical Pkwy, and follow it to the parking area.
Site Information
Managed By:
- National Park Service
Access Requirements:
- Entrance Fee, Open Daily 9am - 5pm except Thanksgiving, 12/25, and 1/1
Contact Information:
- Phone: 757-898-2410
- Email: colo_info@nps.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.