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Virginia › Hunting › Public Ranges on WMAs & National Forests

Public Ranges on WMAs & National Forests

The Department has public sighting-in ranges available at the Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) listed below. These ranges were built for sportsmen to properly sight-in their firearms before going afield during the hunting seasons. All Department public sighting-in ranges are handicapped accessible. Range rules and hours of operation are prominently posted at each range to promote shooting safety and proper care of the facilities. Range users must adhere to posted rules and hours of operation. No reservations are required. Any person 17 years of age or older accessing a WMA or DWR fishing lake must have in their possession a valid hunting, freshwater fishing, or trapping license; current boat registration; or Access Permit. Shooters are limited to one hour of shooting when range is full. Be sure to bring your own paper targets, cardboard backing, clothespins, and tape. In order to help maintain the ranges, all target materials and brass must be removed for proper disposal off site. “Leave No Trace.” Specific hours and dates of operation, range rules, scheduled closures, travel directions, and other information is posted on the Department website at www.virginiawildlife.gov/hunting/sighting-in-ranges.

It shall be unlawful to use or discharge a firearm or hunting weapon on department-owned and managed lands other than to take legal wildlife while hunting or trapping during open seasons. Discharge of a firearm or hunting weapon for target shooting is prohibited on department-owned and managed lands, except on designated shooting ranges designed for specific firearms and hunting weapons on posted days and hours during which the range is open for operation.

DWR Sighting-In Ranges

Amelia Wildlife Management Area:

Six covered bench positions from 25–100 yards for rifle, muzzleloader, and shotgun patterning at stationary paper targets; area for clay bird shooting (bring own thrower and targets). Pistol shooting is prohibited. General dates of operation are September 1 to March 31. With the exception of state holidays, the range is closed on Mondays for maintenance. For information contact: Verona Regional Office, (540) 248-9360.

Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area:

Ten covered bench shooting positions from 25–100 yards for rifle, muzzleloader, and shotgun sighting-in at stationary paper targets. Additional covered area for stand up shotgun patterning. Pistol and clay target shooting are prohibited. General dates of operation are September 1 to March 31. With the exception of state holidays, the range will be closed on Mondays for maintenance. For information contact: Charles City Regional Office, (804) 829-6580.

Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area:

Six covered bench-rest stations from 25–100 yards for rifle, muzzleloader, and shotgun patterning at stationary paper targets. Pistol and clay target shooting are prohibited. General dates of operation are September 1 to March 31. With the exception of state holidays, the range will be closed on Mondays for maintenance. Snow and ice may result in temporary range closures in January, February, and March. For information contact: Marion Regional Office, (276) 783-4860.

Gathright Wildlife Management Area:

Six covered bench-rest stations from 25–100 yards for rifle, muzzleloader, and shotgun patterning at stationary paper targets. Pistol and clay target shooting are prohibited. General dates of operation are September 1 to March 31. With the exception of state holidays, the range will be closed on Mondays for maintenance. For information contact: Verona Regional Office, (540) 248-9360.

C. F. Phelps Wildlife Management Area:

Six covered bench-rest stations from 25–100 yards for rifle, muzzleloader, and shotgun patterning at stationary paper targets. Pistol and clay target shooting are prohibited. General dates of operation are September 1 to March 31. With the exception of state holidays, the range will be closed on Mondays for maintenance. For information contact: Fredericksburg Regional Office, (540) 899-4169.

White Oak Mountain Wildlife Management Area:

Six covered bench positions from 25–100 yards for rifle, muzzleloader, and shotgun patterning at stationary paper targets. Pistol and clay target shooting are prohibited. General dates of operation are September 1 to March 31. With the exception of state holidays, the range will be closed on Mondays for maintenance. For information contact Forest Regional Office, (434) 525-7522.

NOTE: The Department reserves the right to manage the use and access of these facilities as deemed appropriate. These facilities are subject to emergency closures.

National Forest Shooting Ranges

These ranges are open sunrise to sunset during the operating season. Users must bring their own paper targets to all ranges. Use stationary paper targets only. Moving targets, including skeet and/or clay targets, are prohibited except at the Blacksburg Range where clay targets are allowed. No tracer or incendiary type ammunition is allowed. Shooters under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited. All of the ranges have vault toilet restroom buildings. None of these sites have drinking water.

The Blacksburg Shooting Range in Montgomery County:

Two facilities: an 18-lane rifle/pistol range with covered benches for firing at stationary paper targets for up to 100 meters, and a single position shotgun (trap) range for shooting clay targets. Archery is allowed at the shotgun range. Shooting benches and restrooms are wheelchair accessible although some shooters will need assistance with hanging and retrieving targets. This year-round range is closed on Tuesdays for cleaning. For information contact: Eastern Divide Ranger District, (540) 552-4641.

The Bath County Shooting Range:

A 5-lane range with covered benches for shooting stationary paper targets at 50–100 yards. Pistols and rifles are allowed. Shotguns are allowed only when shooting at a stationary paper target. Shooting at any moving target is strictly prohibited. This range is open year round. For information contact: Warm Springs Ranger District, (540) 839-2521.

The Hite Hollow Shooting Range in Augusta County:

A 6-lane rifle range for shooting approximately 50, 100, and 150 yards, and a 2-lane pistol range for shooting approximately 25 yards. Both of these facilities have covered benches. This range is open from May 1 through December 31. For information contact: North River Ranger District, (540) 432-0187.

The Low Moor Shooting Range in Alleghany County:

Provides a 6-lane rifle range for shooting 50 and 100 yards, and a 4-lane pistol range for shooting up to 25 yards. Shotguns are allowed only when shooting at a stationary paper target. Shooting at any moving target is strictly prohibited. Both ranges offer covered benches. This range is open year round. For information contact: James River Ranger District, (540) 839-2521.

The Pott’s Slope Shooting Range in Craig County:

Provides a 9-lane, covered bench, rifle and pistol range for shooting targets at 25, 50, and 100 yards. No shotguns or moving targets are allowed. Shooting benches and restrooms are wheelchair accessible although some shooters will need assistance with hanging and retrieving targets. This range is open year round, but is closed on Tuesdays for cleaning. For information contact: Eastern Divide Ranger District, (540) 552-4641.

The West Side Shooting Range:

Provides 8 shooting lanes of various lengths for rifles, shotguns and pistols. All 8 lanes have covered shooting benches. No moving targets are allowed. This range is open from May 1 to December 31. For more information contact: North River Ranger District, (540) 432-0187.

The Wythe Shooting Range:

Offers 10 lanes with covered benches. Five lanes allow shooting from 5–25 yards. The remaining five lanes offer shooting from 5–100 yards. Pistols and rifles may be used on any lane depending upon the shooting distance desired. No shotguns, moving targets, or archery allowed. The range is open year round, but closed from daylight to noon on Wednesdays for cleaning. For more information, contact: Mt. Rogers National Recreation Area (800) 628-7202.

NOTE: On National Forests, please remember firearms may be discharged for target practice only at established shooting ranges. Discharging a firearm in a developed recreation site is dangerous and prohibited. For more information contact: the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest Headquarters at 5162 Valleypointe Parkway, Roanoke, VA 24019, or call (540) 265-5100.

National Forests

For up-to-date information on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, visit fs.usda.gov/gwj.

Day use fees are required on certain recreation areas. Please visit the George Washington/Jefferson National Forest website, www.fs.usda.gov/gwj, or contact the appropriate office below for more information on fees and seasonal pass information.

Supervisor’s Office - (540) 265-5100

Clinch - (276) 679-8370

North River - (540) 432-0187

Glenwood-Pedlar - (540) 291-2188

James River - (540) 839-2521

Lee - (540) 984-4101

Mt. Rogers National
Recreation Area - (276) 783-5196

Eastern Divide - (540) 552-4641

Warm Springs - (540) 839-2521

Regulations Specific to National Forest and Wildlife Department Lands

It shall be unlawful to use or discharge a firearm or hunting weapon on department-owned and managed lands other than to take legal wildlife while hunting or trapping during open seasons. Discharge of a firearm or hunting weapon for target shooting is prohibited on department-owned and managed lands, except on designated shooting ranges designed for specific firearms and hunting weapons on posted days and hours during which the range is open for operation.

“Hunting weapon” is any weapon allowable for hunting as defined in 29.1-519 of the Code of Virginia.

It is unlawful to chase with a dog or train dogs on National Forest lands or Department-owned lands except during authorized hunting, chase or training seasons that specifically permit these activities on these lands.

Collecting any portion of the American ginseng plant for personal or commercial use from the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests and Department-owned lands is prohibited.

Commercial hunting or fishing outfitter activities on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests require a permit from the National Forest.

Access Roads

Hunter access roads on Department lands seasonally open to motor vehicles will be open (weather permitting) from the last Saturday in September to the 2nd Saturday in February and the 1st Saturday in April to the 3rd Saturday in May.

Opening and closing dates of hunter access roads on National Forest lands may vary by ranger district. Opening and closing dates are determined by management considerations for the areas accessed by these roads. Contact the local ranger district listed at left for opening and closing dates on specific roads.

Any motor driven vehicle, or trailer, using roads normally open to motor vehicles on Department-owned and National Forest lands shall conform with all state laws for highway travel, including valid inspection and registration. No cross country travel is allowed. All-terrain vehicle (ATV) and off-road vehicle (OHV) travel is permitted only on designated National Forest roads and trails.

Camping Policy

Temporary dispersed primitive camping (no water, electric hookups, bathrooms or other facilities) is allowed at many of the Department’s WMAs across the Commonwealth, when occupants are engaged in authorized activities. However, a camping authorization (no cost) is required to camp on WMA’s. The free authorization can be obtained at any license agent or at gooutdoorsva.com. The camping authorization can be found in the list of “Special Licenses”. Primitive camping is allowed for up to 14 consecutive nights and no more than 14 nights in any 28-day period. Camping is prohibited on or within 300 feet of any boat ramp, fishing lake or at other specific sites as posted or marked on WMA maps. All campers are required to store food in such a manner that it is not accessible by wildlife. Detailed camping regulations are found in 4VAC-15-20-155.

Camping on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest is prohibited 1) in or within 300 feet of any developed parking area or boat ramp and 2) for a period of time exceeding 14 days in any 30-day period.

For more information, please visit the National Forest website https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/gwj or call the appropriate Ranger District Office.

No trash service is provided. WMA and National Forest users should practice “Pack it In, Pack it out”.

Structures

It is unlawful to construct, maintain, or occupy any permanent structure, except by permit, on Department-owned lands and National Forest lands.

It is unlawful to maintain any temporary dwelling on Department-owned land for more than 14 consecutive days. Persons constructing or occupying such structures are responsible for complete removal of temporary structures.

Tree Stands

It is unlawful to construct, maintain, or occupy any permanent tree stand on Department-owned lands, National Forest lands, and on Department of Conservation and Recreation-owned or controlled lands. Portable tree stands, which are not permanently affixed, may be used. Use of a full body safety harness while hunting from tree stands is strongly recommended.

Other Public Access

PALS

The Public Access Lands for Sportsmen (PALS) program opens private lands for public access. The Department manages access to these properties for hunting, fishing, trapping and wildlife viewing. A PALS Permit ($18) is required to access these lands. PALS Permits are available through DWR license agents, online at the DWR website and through the GoOutdoors mobile app. For more information contact the appropriate regional office or check out our website https://dwr.virginia.gov/hunting/regulations/publiclands/#pals. Existing properties include:

  • Coalfields PALS – 30,000 acres
  • James City County PALS – 260 acres

POWRR

The Department was recently awarded federal grant funding to secure more public access for wildlife related recreation on private lands in the Coalfields region of southwest Virginia over the next few years. The Public Opportunities for Wildlife Related Recreation (POWRR) program will open private lands for the public to enjoy hunting, fishing, trapping, boating and wildlife viewing. The program also provides funding for access infrastructure (parking, gates, signs etc.) and habitat improvements. New properties are being evaluated and enrolled continuously. For more information about opportunities and rules check out our website at https://dwr.virginia.gov/powrr/ or call the Marion Regional Office at 276-783-4860.

State Forests

The 26 State Forests of Virginia serve as working forests and research & demonstration sites for multiple-use management. Environmental protection, water quality, aesthetics, wildlife habitat, forest research and recreation are as important as a sustained timber harvest. The State Forests are administered under a self-supporting budget. Most operating funds are generated through timber sales but Use Permits for hunting and other activities are important as well.

General Hunting Regulations are allowed on many of the State Forest properties in Virginia including: Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest, Big Woods State Forest in Sussex County, Chilton Woods State Forest in Lancaster County (dogs may not be used to hunt bear or deer), Cumberland State Forest, Devil’s Backbone State Forest in Shenandoah County (archery & black powder only), Dragon Run State Forest in King and Queen County, First Mountain State Forest in Rockingham County (archery & black powder only), Lesesne State Forest in Nelson County (archery & black powder only), Moore’s Creek State Forest in Rockbridge County (must be accessed by hiking across George Washington & Jefferson National Forest) and Prince Edward Gallion State Forest (Gallion Management Unit of this forest is a game preserve and is closed to hunting) in Prince Edward County.

All of the above State Forests will allow Sunday hunting.

Hunting is not allowed on eight State Forests – some with Deed Restrictions such as Niday Place State Forest, Bourassa State Forest, and Crawfords State Forest, and others with access limitations for the public such as South Quay State Forest, Old Flat State Forest & Hawks State Forest, and some with such high public use that safety is a concern such as Zoar State Forest, and Paul State Forest.

General Hunting Regulations will also be allowed, EXCEPT ON SUNDAYS, on Charlotte State Forest in Charlotte County (waterfowl hunting limited to Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday only), Matthews State Forest in Grayson County (archery only in designated areas), Chesterfield State Forest in Chesterfield County (archery only, does not including the Urban archery season), and Sandy Point State Forest in King William County.

Conway Robinson State Forest in Prince William County and Whitney State Forest in Fauquier County will remain lottery permit-only hunts that will be advertised.

A valid State Forest Use Permit and valid hunting license is required and may be purchased from license agents or online. Hunting is allowed on these properties only in accordance with state hunting regulations. No motorized vehicles, including ATVs, are permitted on gated roads and trails whether the gate is open or closed.

Further information on regulations governing the use of specific State Forest properties for hunting or other recreational activities is available at dof.virginia.gov/stateforest/recreation/hunting.htm or by calling 804-492-4121.

National Parks

Hunting is prohibited in all National Parks in Virginia including on lands of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Permission must be obtained to track dogs from Parkway lands for the purpose of retrieving them within Parkway boundaries. Permission is granted for up to three (3) hours upon contacting (828) 348-3473 and leaving hunter contact information—full name, phone number, vehicle description for all vehicles in party and milepost if known. Hunters may park their vehicle in a safe location on Parkway lands (e.g., parking areas and pull-outs) and take a direct route to non-Parkway lands open to hunting. Contact (828) 298-2491 (Parkway dispatch) prior to transporting game across Parkway lands. For other current information, view Park-specific websites or contact via Park public information telephone lines.

Military Areas

Fort A.P. Hill, Fort Pickett, Fort Belvoir, Joint Base Langley-Eustis (Fort Eustis only) and Marine Corps Base Quantico provide hunting opportunities. See each installation’s iSportsman website (below) for details on access procedures and rules and regulations for hunting on base.

Fort A.P. Hill, Fort Pickett, and Marine Corps Base Quantico provide hunting dog training opportunities. See each installation’s iSportsman website for details on access procedures and rules and regulations for hunting dog training on base.

Federal Refuges

Hunting is allowed on the following National Wildlife Refuges in Virginia. For more information:

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

John H. Kerr Reservoir

The John H. Kerr Reservoir is a federally managed multipurpose facility located on the Virginia-North Carolina border. It consists of a 50,000 acre reservoir and 55,000 acres of land surrounding the lake which offers 40,000 acres open to hunting. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers maintains 26 wildlife management units located around Kerr Reservoir.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

1930 Mays Chapel Road, Boydton, VA 23917

Visitor Assistance Center (434) 738-6143 or Powerhouse (434)-738-6633 or https://www.saw.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes-and-Dams/John-H-Kerr/.

John W. Flannagan Reservoir

The John W. Flannagan Reservoir in western Dickenson County provides 6,400 acres of land open to public hunting. The area offers deer, black bear, wild turkey, and small game hunting opportunities.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

2207 Flannagan Dam Rd., Haysi, VA 24256-9739

(276) 835-9544 or https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/visitors/projects.cfm?Id=H108550

Philpott Lake

Philpott Lake lies along the border of Henry, Patrick, and Franklin counties and includes a total of approximately 9,500 acres with 2,880 acres of water and approximately 6,500 acres of federally owned land and 240 acres of flowage easement lands on state property. Approximately 4,270 acres of this federal land are designated as wildlife management units, where hunting is permitted. Popular game species include deer, turkey, and bear. Other game includes squirrel, rabbit, fox, beaver, waterfowl, etc.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

1058 Philpott Dam Road, Bassett, VA 24055, (276) 629-2703 or www.saw.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes-and-dams/Philpott or on the Philpott Lake Facebook page.

Have You Seen These Animals?

If you have a photo of any of the animals shown here, including the Eastern spotted skunk, fisher, nine-banded armadillo, and/or the North American porcupine, we would like to hear from you.

Eastern spotted skunk ©Shutterstock

Eastern spotted skunk ©Shutterstock

Eastern spotted skunks are listed as a Tier IV Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) in Virginia and can generally be found in the western part of the state. They are smaller (1 to 2½ pounds) than the more common striped skunks and have glossy black fur with four to six broken white stripes along the back and sides that resemble “spots.” Please note that it is illegal to shoot or trap spotted skunks (unless they are causing damage) and their pelts may not be sold.

Fishers are large weasels, typically weighing 4 to 12 pounds and measuring 30 to 47 inches from the nose to the tip of the tail. They have an elongated body, short legs, and a long tail with dark brown and black fur. Likely becoming extinct in the state in the early 1900s, fishers have begun to reappear in Virginia in the western part of the state and are listed as a Tier IV SGCN. Please note that there is a continuous closed hunting and trapping season for fishers in Virginia.

Fisher photo ©Leonard Lee Rue

©Leonard Lee Rue

Nine-banded armadillos are armored, cat-sized (8 to 17 pounds), insect-eating mammals typically found in the American Southwest. Armadillos have been expanding their range in the U.S. to the east and north and have been spotted in the southwest corner of Virginia.

Armadillo
North American porcupine

North American porcupines are large rodents (10 to 28 pounds) distinguished by their notable coat of long, sharp quills. Porcupines are typically found in the northern and western parts of North America, but have been extending their range. Porcupines have now been observed in the northwest region of Virginia.

Report Observations: If you have any verifiable information (i.e., photos, video, etc.) regarding the occurrences of any of these animals, please enter your information at virginiawildlife.gov/report-rare-animals. For more information contact Leah Card ([email protected]).

Virginia Conservation Police Officer Information
Virginia
Fishing Hunting Game Bird Hunting