Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Leesville Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA) encompasses over 6,000 acres of mixed hardwood forests, open fields, and brushy terrain located in Campbell and Bedford counties, Virginia. The area surrounds Leesville Lake, a large reservoir on the Roanoke River, known for its excellent fishing opportunities including bass, crappie, and catfish. The WMA is managed primarily for wildlife habitat and hunting, supporting populations of white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and small game species. Visitors can enjoy hiking and mountain biking along various unmaintained and informal trails, while bird watchers and photographers find rich opportunities to observe a variety of woodland and wetland species. Leesville Lake itself attracts paddlers and anglers seeking calm waters and scenic views. Historically, the land was acquired for conservation and public hunting purposes by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources to preserve native habitats and offer outdoor enthusiasts low-impact recreational experiences. The area's rugged topography includes rolling hills and ridgelines with diverse tree species such as oak, hickory, and pine. Leesville Lake WMA provides a quiet alternative to busier nearby public lands, appealing especially to local residents and hunters. Accessibility is primarily by gravel and secondary roads. The relatively undeveloped nature of the area demands basic navigation skills and self-sufficiency from visitors, especially during hunting seasons or shoulder seasons when fewer people are present.
