Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve

Banshee Reeks is a Nature Preserve, which ensures that all of the plants, animals, habitats and cultural resources are protected. 

• Family-friendly hiking: explore our 20 miles of trails on 725 acres.
• Catch and release fishing pond: Virginia state fishing license required for anglers age 16 and older. Age 16 and younger must be accompanied by an adult with a Virginia state fishing license. 
• Dogs welcome: they must be on a leash and everyone stays on the trail.
• Bikes and horses prohibited

Updates and Announcements

• Caution - Deer Ahead: Deer are on the move during the fall mating season and the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries offers some safety tips. See details here.
• The registration lottery for the December Combined Hunt is closed.

History and Background

• The word "banshee" is a Gaelic term for a female spirit and the word "reeks" is a Gaelic term for hills and dales. Legend has it that around the 1840s, the owner of the farm was of Irish or Scottish decent. After a night in town he came back to the farm and heard strange cries and sounds in the woods -- what he thought might be banshees. Since the farm was very hilly, he is supposed to have said that he heard, "banshees in the reeks." In the years since, the name has become Banshee Reeks.
• To control invasive plants at the preserve, we turned to goats! Read about our "weed busters" in this National Recreation and Park Association story (PDF).
• Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve has been designated a Virginia Treasure. Details

Volunteer Opportunities

• The third Saturday of each month is a Volunteer Day at Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve. 
• Sponsored by the Friends of Banshee Reeks, no registration is required. 
• Help us by:
  • Designing kiosk displays
  • Invasive plant removal
  • Maintenance of the pollinator garden and rain garden
  • Native plant restoration
  • Trail improvements

Contact Us

Contact the Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve for more information.