Controlled deer management hunts, run by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Hunter Education Program, will be taking place at Cowbane Prairie Natural Area Preserve between September 5th, 2026, and March 28th, 2026. These hunts will only take place on select weekends, Saturdays, and Sundays, during this time window. Please see the link below for further information about these hunts and why they are taking place. Any questions about these hunts should directed to DWR staff at the Region 4 office (540) 248-9360.
On the western slope of the Blue Ridge in the Shenandoah Valley, Cowbane Prairie NAP protects outstanding examples of wet prairies, mesic prairies, and calcareous spring marshes which were once common natural communities in the Shenandoah Valley. These communities have been reduced over the years by agricultural and industrial development. Eleven rare plants including queen-of-the-prairie (Filipendula rubra), blueflag iris (Iris versicolor), and marsh-speedwell are found at the preserve. Additionally, a reach of the South River within Cowbane Prairie NAP also provides habitat for two watchlisted freshwater mussel species.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
