Hollins Wildlife Management Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · Virginia

Hollins Wildlife Management Area

Hollins Wildlife Management Area offers a mix of forested hills and open lands in southwestern Virginia, providing excellent opportunities for hunting, hiking, and wildlife observation.

Wildlife Management Area4,6214+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

4,621

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Hollins Wildlife Management Area

Hollins Wildlife Management Area offers a mix of forested hills and open lands in southwestern Virginia, providing excellent opportunities for hunting, hiking, and wildlife observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Hollins Wildlife Management Area (WMA) encompasses approximately 4,621 acres of predominantly forested terrain in Roanoke County, Virginia. The area features rolling hills and ridge lines that form part of the western Blue Ridge Mountains, with a landscape dominated by mixed hardwood forests and pockets of open fields. Ecologically, the WMA supports a rich variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, and numerous small game species, making it popular among hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. Vegetative communities primarily consist of oak-hickory forests, which provide critical habitat for game and non-game species alike. The WMA is managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources with a focus on sustainable hunting, wildlife habitat conservation, and public recreation. History of the land points to a mixture of former farmland and timberland, now reverting to more natural conditions under active management. Recreational opportunities extend beyond hunting to hiking, wildlife photography, and bird watching. Though no developed campgrounds exist within the boundaries, visitors can access nearby state parks and forest lands for camping. The terrain offers several informal trails and forest roads for hiking and biking but does not have a widely established trail network. The area's remote feel and wooded slopes attract visitors looking for quiet nature experiences within a short drive from Roanoke city. Hollins WMA is noted for its balance of public access and effective stewardship of diverse wildlife habitats.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Hollins Wildlife Management Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Good populations of white-tailed deer and wild turkey for hunting and viewing✦ Mixed hardwood forests supporting diverse wildlife habitats✦ Numerous forest roads and informal trails for hiking and mountain biking✦ Close proximity to Roanoke city for easy access
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Hollins Wildlife Management Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Hollins Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Hollins Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Hollins Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Hollins Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Hollins Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Hollins Wildlife Management Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Hollins Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Access is free for hiking and wildlife viewing; hunting requires appropriate Virginia licenses and tags. A Wildlife Management Area permit is required for those age 17 and older unless exempt.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Hollins Wildlife Management Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Roanoke, Virginia
⌖ 2.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke, VA, offers outdoor enthusiasts access to hiking, biking, and paddling adventures against the scenic backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy diverse trails, water routes, and mountain vistas during your stay in this vibrant 'Star City of the South.'

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Salem, Virginia
⌖ 3.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Salem, Virginia

Salem, Virginia, is a vibrant adventure destination in the Roanoke Valley. Enjoy hiking, biking, and fishing in serene mountain settings. Perfect for outdoor escape in any season!

Vinton, Virginia
⌖ 4.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Vinton, Virginia

Vinton, Virginia offers outdoor lovers easy access to hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing along the scenic Roanoke River and nearby parks. Its small-town vibe and natural settings make it a quiet gateway to Blue Ridge foothill adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Cloverdale, Virginia
⌖ 7.12 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cloverdale, Virginia

Cloverdale, Virginia offers quiet outdoor fun with hiking, paddling, and fishing close to Smith Mountain Lake and the Roanoke River. Perfect for those seeking peaceful nature escapes and gentle adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Catawba, Virginia
⌖ 9.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Catawba, Virginia

Catawba, VA is an adventure gem for outdoor lovers, offering hiking on renowned trails like Dragon's Tooth, scenic biking routes, and serene camping under the stars, all while surrounded by stunning Appalachian views.

Hardy, Virginia
⌖ 10.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hardy, Virginia

Hardy is a peaceful town in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley offering quiet access to hiking, paddling, and mountain biking. Its close proximity to national forests and the Shenandoah River makes it an excellent base for outdoor exploration from spring through fall.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Hollins Wildlife Management Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

150hp Crest Tritoon: A Smith Mountain Lake Run from Hardy
ADVEXPEDITION
Hardy, Virginia
Guided TourADV Bookable

150hp Crest Tritoon: A Smith Mountain Lake Run from Hardy

A concise guide to cruising Smith Mountain Lake aboard a 23' Crest Tritoon with a 150hp motor, onboard comforts, and the safety checks and maps Westlake Boat Rentals provides.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Two Days of Wilderness Canoe Camping: Buchanan to Back Run
ADVEXPEDITION
Buchanan, Virginia
KayakADV Bookable

Two Days of Wilderness Canoe Camping: Buchanan to Back Run

A 2-day, 16.5-mile wilderness canoe-camping run from Buchanan that lays out the route, logistics, and the skills you’ll need to handle rapids, a strong current, and an overnight backcountry camp.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip