Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Cleveland Barrens Natural Area Preserve is located in Russell County, Virginia, and encompasses around 1,070 acres of protected land. The preserve is distinguished by its rare limestone barren ecosystem, which supports a variety of globally rare plant species. The rolling terrain of the area is marked by open, grassy patches and rocky outcrops, creating a unique habitat that is home to plants such as the marshallia and the Tennessee leafcup. Historically, the land use in this region was dominated by farming and logging, which has shaped the current landscape. While there are no formalized trails, the preserve offers limited access for guided tours and scientific study, enabling visitors to witness its unique flora and fauna, including rare butterfly species. The natural and relatively undisturbed landscapes appeal to conservationists and nature enthusiasts interested in the ecological and biological diversity of the Appalachian region.
