Plum Tree Island National Wildlife Refuge

Plum Tree Island National Wildlife Refuge is a protected coastal area featuring extensive salt marsh habitat in the lower Chesapeake Bay. The property contains tidal streams and wooded uplands that support diverse wildlife along the Atlantic migration corridor.

The area was once under military control and used as a bombing range before being designated as a wildlife refuge in 1972. This transition shifted the land from military operations to habitat protection along this important ecological corridor.

The refuge provides shelter for migratory birds and waterfowl that stop here during their journeys across the Atlantic Flyway. Local hunting and fishing practices continue to be part of the community's relationship with this protected land.

Visitor access is limited to the Cow Island section due to unexploded ordnance hazards in other areas from past military use. Plan ahead and stay on designated pathways during your visit.

The refuge protects the largest continuous salt marsh system in the lower Chesapeake Bay, a crucial habitat for the northern diamondback terrapin. This wetland provides conditions found nowhere else nearby for this semi-aquatic turtle species.

Location: Virginia

Inception: 1972

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/plum_tree_island

GPS coordinates: 37.14000,-76.32750

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:57