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Wildlife Management Area · Virginia

Cartersville Wildlife Management Area

Cartersville Wildlife Management Area offers diverse habitats for hunting, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreation in scenic southern Virginia along the James River.

Wildlife Management Area2,6574+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,657

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cartersville Wildlife Management Area

Cartersville Wildlife Management Area offers diverse habitats for hunting, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreation in scenic southern Virginia along the James River.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cartersville Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is located in Cumberland County, Virginia, spanning approximately 2,657 acres. Positioned along the James River, the area features a mix of upland forests, bottomland hardwoods, and riverine wetlands, providing rich and varied habitats for a wide range of wildlife. The landscape includes rolling hills, floodplains, and abundant hardwood and pine forest stands that support populations of white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and small game. Established to promote sustainable wildlife and natural resource management, Cartersville WMA is managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and is a popular destination for hunting, especially during deer, turkey, and waterfowl seasons. Besides hunting, visitors enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and fishing along the James River. The river corridor adds not only ecological value but recreational appeal, with opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Trails and public access points provide routes through the forested terrain and along the river’s edge. The area’s remote and peaceful environment makes it attractive for wildlife photographers and naturalists. Visitors appreciate the combination of forest, river, and wetland ecosystems in a relatively compact area. Access to Cartersville WMA is available from local roads near the community of Cartersville, Virginia. The management area is subject to seasonal regulations and permits connected to hunting and fishing activities, ensuring conservation balance and protecting the habitat for future generations.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cartersville Wildlife Management Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Bear Creek Lake State Park: A Nature Lover’s Retreat in Virginia★ 6.0⌖ 1 miKayaking
Bear Creek Lake State Park

Bear Creek Lake State Park: A Nature Lover’s Retreat in Virginia

Explore Bear Creek Lake State Park in Virginia, perfect for kayaking, hiking, fishing, and peaceful picnicking. The park offers easy trails and calming lake views, ideal for a family-friendly getaway. Best visited in spring or fall for mild weather and quieter crowds.

Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historic State Park★ 4.0⌖ 16 miHistorical Exploration
Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historic State Park

Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historic State Park

Explore Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historic State Park near Rice, VA, offering historical insights and serene nature walks. Ideal for family outings, this drive-in park is quiet year-round. Enjoy birding and discovering Civil War history amidst tranquil landscapes.

Historical ExplorationView Details→
Holliday Lake State Park★ 6.5⌖ 21 miFishing
Holliday Lake State Park

Holliday Lake State Park

Explore Holliday Lake State Park in Appomattox, VA. Known for its serene lake, it's ideal for fishing, hiking, and bird watching. Best visited in spring or fall for tranquil scenery. Family-friendly with ample space for picnics and nature photography.

Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest★ 7.5⌖ 22 miHiking
Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest

Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest

Explore the vast trails of Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest in Virginia. Perfect for hikers and bikers, the area offers varied difficulty levels. Visit in spring or fall for optimal conditions. Keep an eye out for rare birds and enjoy a fulfilling outdoor experience.

Powhatan State Park: A Riverside Retreat★ 7.2⌖ 22 miKayaking
Powhatan State Park

Powhatan State Park: A Riverside Retreat

Explore Powhatan State Park, situated along the James River near Powhatan, VA. Enjoy kayaking, fishing, and hiking in this serene, family-friendly escape. Ideal during spring and fall for the best experience in nature.

Twin Lakes State Park★ 5.6⌖ 24 miCamping
Twin Lakes State Park

Twin Lakes State Park

Explore Twin Lakes State Park with serene lakes perfect for fishing and kayaking. Enjoy camping, hiking on easy to moderate trails, and wildlife observation in this peaceful, historic Virginia park.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ James River floodplain offering scenic river access and diverse wetland habitats✦ Forest areas providing excellent habitat for white-tailed deer and wild turkey✦ Opportunities for waterfowl hunting and seasonal bird migrations✦ Quiet trails and riverbanks ideal for wildlife observation and photography
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cartersville Wildlife Management Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Cartersville Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cartersville Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cartersville Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Cartersville Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Cartersville Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cartersville Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Cartersville Wildlife Management Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cartersville Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access for public with required permits for hunting and fishing activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cartersville Wildlife Management Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Dawn
⌖ 2.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dawn, Virginia

A quiet rural community offering peaceful access to Virginia’s southern forests and waterways, ideal for low-key outdoor activities and nature immersion.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Cumberland
⌖ 2.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cumberland, Virginia

A peaceful rural community offering quiet outdoor escapes in Virginia's Heartland.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Cartersville
⌖ 14.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cartersville, Virginia

A peaceful small town with easy access to water-based adventures on the James River and scenic hiking in nearby protected areas.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Farmville
⌖ 15.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Farmville, Virginia

A charming riverside town offering tranquil paddling, scenic trails, and easy access to Virginia’s rural outdoor experiences.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Rice
⌖ 16.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rice, Virginia

A peaceful rural area offering a mix of outdoor recreational activities surrounded by lush forests and historical intrigue.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Powhatan
⌖ 20.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Powhatan, Virginia

A charming small town offering a blend of serene countryside with convenient access to outdoor adventures.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cartersville Wildlife Management Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Horse Training Consultation | Horse in Appomattox | Appomattox, Virginia · 23.49 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Holiday Ranch LLC

Horse Training Consultation | Horse in Appomattox |

Get hands-on horse training advice in a tranquil ranch setting at Holiday Ranch LLC. Perfect for improving your riding skills and bonding with your horse, this experience offers personalized guidance in scenic surroundings. Elevate your horsemanship with tailored training sessions at Holiday Ranch LLC, located in the heart of Montana’s countryside. This ranch specializes in personalized riding consultations designed to help riders of all levels sharpen their skills, build confidence, and deepen their connection with their horses. From colt sharing to refresher training, each session emphasizes thoughtful horsemanship practices that prioritize the well-being of the animal while boosting rider proficiency. Set against expansive pastures and rustic training facilities, Holiday Ranch offers an authentic ranch environment that fosters focus and growth. The expert trainers work closely with participants to address individual riding goals, whether preparing for upcoming shows or simply enhancing their confidence on horseback. Limited participant sizes ensure personalized attention, making it a standout destination for serious riders seeking quality instruction outside urban centers. The ranch’s commitment to sustainable, horse-centered methods makes it a responsible and welcoming choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors will appreciate the peace and quiet of the rural landscape and the chance to learn practical skills in a natural setting. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, a visit to Holiday Ranch LLC delivers a rewarding, educational experience that combines outdoor adventure with practical horsemanship. Come discover why this ranch remains a favorite for local and visiting riders seeking genuine, personalized horse training in Montana.

2–4 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.