This is a beautifully maintained area. Many birds, deer, and squirrels were spotted when I visited. There is a multitude of flowers blooming in warm weather. Lots of interesting trees. Some open areas and some wooded areas with a well kept path all the way through. Very nice place to visit.
This is a lovely preserve, well worth a visit. Several hundred acres in size with diverse habitat. The trail to the left of the entrance is a nice loop about 3/4 mile. The other two trails are out and back. We were birding and had a nice mix of birds both visits with raptors, song birds, shorebirds and more. Highly recommended
Bugs, bugs, bugs! Ticks, mosquitoes, horseflies! Stay away if you like your blood!
In all seriousness, a nice little nature walk with lots of wildlife and views of water if you take the side-paths. not much shade, think twice if you plan to go in summertime, we got chased out by biting bugs.
Very nice area with several different biomes, home to a variety of birds and wildlife. Saw ~15 species of birds, deer, rabbits, and a turtle on our way out. Relatively easy access and a short set of trails made this a perfect stop on our trip.
The sign is misleading…the loop itself is only about 3/4 mile. To do a full mile you have to walk the Gargathy Bay trail out and back then continue on the loop.
Beautiful open space. Needs more signage. And there is no access to Caroline Bay, trail just ends. Parking lot is right next to the fen, but no signs, need to know to look through the trees. Educational wayside exhibits would also be appreciated!
I highly recommend.
The trails are well maintained and wildlife abundant. It is as nature intended. I saw a white tailed deer and a doe. A pheasant or maybe it was a grouse crossed the lane driving here so drive SLOWLY. Deep Woods Off highly recommended as you are near a body of water. I did the loop. There's a wood chair under a tree. And a red barn.
Nice small walk. A wide, mowed path around what looks an old orchard or field. Does go to the water with great views. Trail to the right seems to dead end. There appeared to be a deer path that went into the woods but seemed to not actually be a part of the trail. We did startle some deer and some quail, turkey vultures were the only large birds around. Bring bug spray as the deer flies are very friendly and be sure to check for ticks, they are friendly too.
I visited the area Jan. 29, 2021 and the gate was open. I was there the previous day and the gate was closed but learned that you can still open the automated gate and drive in on the left side. It was a very cold day for a hike but I enjoyed a short brisk walk. The area is clean and refreshing with lots of birds. Nice getaway for meditation and exercise.
No human noise, just that of birds, insects, and startled deer. Blackberries and raspberries. Fennel for butterflies....but not many butterflies. Oceanside/barrier island views. Perfect tranquility.
Visited the beautiful Mutton Hunk Fen Natural Area Preserve this morning, in Parksley (seaside). It was so incredibly peaceful all we could hear was the whispering grasses and trees blowing in the strong winds. Well we actually heard this strange huff/snort sound as we were walking into the path and after walking very quietly we finally saw a large deer peering out from the tall grasses. The plants and trees changed as we made our way around the entire loop. We could also clearly see Wallops Island where the Antares rocket launched last week. Note for visitors: the gate often is closed or partially closed due to a malfunction issue with right side and because residents who live on site may close the gate for privacy at night. As long as there is not a sign stating closed (sometimes closed during hunting season for certain weeks), you can manually open the gate on the left and enter. Parking lot at end of drive. So peaceful. We will return earlier in the morning next time to see even more wildlife but we saw an eagle and the deer mentioned above so that was pretty awesome.
Caretaker residence on site. Strong security for wilderness area. Make sure you call first. But still hit and miss. Called twice no answer and gate locked
