Open-Space Reserves

The Virginia Outdoors Foundations owns 3,500 acres of open space on five different reserves. Each reserve is managed for different conservation purposes, and public access is managed accordingly. Not every reserve may be accessed without prior permission from VOF. Please select the reserve you are interested in below to learn more about its history, conservation purpose, and accessibility.

Bull Run Mountains
Natural Area Preserve

Fauquier & Prince William Counties

This 2,350-acre preserve is located just 35 miles outside of Washington, D.C., and is the easternmost mountain system in Virginia. Its diverse habitat is home to thousands of species of plants and animals. The property serves as a living lab for scientists and students in the region, and is also a favorite destination of hikers.

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Rockfish

Nelson County

This 86-acre reserve consists of mostly forested land along nearly one mile of the Rockfish River, which forms the reserve's eastern boundary. The property is not currently opened to the public, but planning is underway to determine its future use.

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House Mountain

Rockbridge County

This 861-acre reserve near Lexington is one of Virginia's most iconic landscape formations. Composed of Big House Mountain and Little House Mountain, the property is used annually by students from the Virginia Military Institute and Washington & Lee for outings, and is also popular with hikers throughout the region.

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Kohls Island

Northumberland County

This 80-acre reserve is located at the mouth of the Potomac River on the Chesapeake Bay. It contains sensitive dune habitat for an endangered species of tiger beetle and other species. It is only accessible by boat and is not open except by permission. Its primary purpose is scientific and educational use.

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Blue Ball Mountain

Clarke County

This 100-acre reserve sits along the Shenandoah River in Clarke County and is protected primarily for the scenic enjoyment of river users. It is surrounded by private land and is therefore not accessible to the public without prior permission from VOF.

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