Featherstone National Wildlife Refuge

Featherstone National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in Prince William County with upland forest and freshwater tidal marsh along the Potomac River. The site covers approximately 325 acres at the junction where Neabsco Creek meets the river.

The Fish and Wildlife Service established this refuge in 1970 to protect natural habitats in the Potomac River watershed. The creation was part of a broader effort to safeguard riparian areas and wetlands across the region.

The refuge is part of a network of protected areas along the Potomac River, where scientific work on regional ecosystem conservation happens regularly. The mix of forest and marsh creates a space where nature and research efforts connect closely.

Exploring the refuge requires using a paddle boat or canoe, launching from the southern end of Farm Creek. Visitors should check water conditions and landing site access before heading out to ensure a safe visit.

A CSX railroad line runs through the refuge and regularly carries passenger and freight trains across the protected land. This unusual combination of nature protection and modern rail traffic demonstrates how conservation areas must sometimes adapt to existing infrastructure.

Location: Prince William County

Inception: 1970

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

GPS coordinates: 38.59444,-77.25556

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:42