Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in southwestern Virginia, the Upper & Lower Butternut Creek Wildlife Management Area encompasses a mix of forested ridges, wetlands, and creek corridors across several thousand acres. This protected area is managed primarily for the conservation of native wildlife and to provide public hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills with steep slopes, lush hardwood forests mainly composed of oak, hickory, and pine, as well as scattered wetlands along Butternut Creek’s watershed. The area's abundant water sources support a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass and sunfish, attracting anglers during the fishing seasons. Birdwatchers may spot a range of migratory and resident birds, such as wild turkeys, ruffed grouse, and numerous songbirds. Recreational opportunities include hiking, wildlife observation, and seasonal hunting under Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources regulations. There are several unmarked trails and old logging roads providing access to more remote parts of the property. Though there are no formal developed campgrounds within the WMA, dispersed camping is permitted with proper adherence to local rules. The area’s rich ecosystem supports diverse mammal species, including white-tailed deer, black bear, and beaver. Historical use of the land includes timber harvesting and small-scale farming, which have shaped the current landscape. The WMA’s location between mountainous terrain and fertile valleys offers visitors a quiet natural setting with plentiful wildlife and scenic creek views throughout the seasons.
