Thompson Wildlife Management Area on the Land Conservation Assistance Network

Thompson Wildlife Management Area
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last updated: April 2023

Situated within a convenient distance of Northern Virginia's large, urban population but far removed in its setting — against the quiet eastern slope of the Blue Ridge Mountains — the G. Richard Thompson Wildlife Management Area is among the most popular of Game Department lands. The opportunities to hunt, fish, view wildlife and spectacular displays of wildflowers, or hike a stretch of the famous Appalachian Trail, contribute to the area's broad appeal.

The major portion of the management area's two parcels, totaling nearly 4,000 acres, is located in Northwestern Fauquier County. Beginning at its lower reaches, the property rises in a series of steep inclines and benches to the crest of the Blue Ridge. The property's long northwestern boundary closely follows the mountain crest, occasionally straying westward into Warren and Clarke Counties. Elevations range from 700 to 2200 feet. Though predominately a hardwood forest, there is some semi-open land at the lower elevations and at the top of the Davenport Tract. Terraced slopes on the lower portion of the area mark where rows of fruit trees once grew. Other physical features include numerous rock outcroppings, and several major streams and ecologically unique spring seeps.

Recreational Opportunities on this WMA

Hunting
Trapping
Primitive Camping
Trout Fishing
Warmwater Fishing
Hiking
Horseback Riding
Birding

Facilities

Parking is provided in 11 designated parking areas. The Appalachian Trail crosses the entire mountaintop portion of the management area, and there are numerous well defined trails and roads that provide foot access to the area's interior.

Directions

The lower (eastern) portion of the area is accessible from I-66 at Markham (exit 17) by taking Route 688 (Leeds Manor Road) north, or from U. S. Route 17, south of Paris, on 688 south. The ridge top (western) portion is reached from State Route 55 at Linden (from I-66 take exit 13, Linden, and travel east), north on Route 638 (Freezeland Road). Continue on the unimproved Fire Trail to reach the Davenport Tract.

REMINDER: This listing is a free service of LandCAN.
Thompson Wildlife Management Area is not employed by or affiliated with the Land Conservation Assistance Network, and the Network does not certify or guarantee their services. The reader must perform their own due diligence and use their own judgment in the selection of any professional.