Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we ask that you do the following:

  • Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information. Operations vary based on local public health conditions.
  • Face masks are required in all federal buildings and on all federal lands.
  • Maintain a safe distance between yourself and other groups.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick


What's Happening

Summer Employment

YCC

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and our partner, the City of Chesapeake, are looking for candidates for the 2021 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC). Positions for two crew members, an Assistant Leader and a Leader are open. The YCC completes many projects at the refuge during the summer months, many in the maintenance field. The work schedule is Monday - Thursday for crew members and Monday - Friday for leaders, 7:30am-4:00pm, for an eight week period. Applicants must be local, as no housing is available. Applicants interested in this #summer job should contact Mary Riley, at mriley@cityofchesapeake.net.

Blue Goose Tram Tours

Tram THUMBNAIL

The Blue Goose Tram begins its spring schedule in April. False Cape State Park is managing the tram program and taking reservations for all trips at this time. The tram runs Fridays - Sundays at 9:00am. Please call (757)426-7128 for reservations.

False Cape State Park Event Schedule

Expanded Eligibility for Military Pass!

November 11, 2020 Military Pass - 2021

Beginning Veteran's Day 2020, U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt expanded eligibility for the America the Beautiful Military Pass, to include veterans and Gold Star Families. Veterans may obtain a pass at Back Bay NWR by presenting a DOD ID card, a Veteran Health ID Card, a Veteran ID Card or a driver's license with a veteran's designation. Passes are available Fridays - Tuesdays from 8:00am-3:30pm at the Fee Booth, located at the entrance to the refuge at 4005 Sandpiper Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23456.

Military Pass Press Release

eBird Trail Tracker

Seasonal Closure (PROMO)

We have added a new feature to our website! Check out the eBird Trail Tracker to see what sightings have been seen recently at the refuge!

eBird Trail Tracker
For Educators

Every Kid Outdoors

EKO Logo Color Web Feature

Did you know that both 4th and 5th grade students are eligible for an Every Kid Outdoors pass? This free pass covers entrance fees for 4th graders and their families to any federal land in the country. To obtain a pass go to the Every Kid Outdoors website (link below), complete an activity, print a voucher and bring it to the refuge. We hope to see you soon!

Every Kid Outdoors Website

About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

NWRS Logo

The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants.

Learn more about the NWRS
Follow NWRS Online