Wildlife Loop

Official notes

Parking

The National Park Service lists auto parking, bus/RV parking and trailhead access among the amenities at the Wildlife Loop. The Herbert H. Bateman Educational and Administrative Center at 8231 Beach Road, Chincoteague, VA 23336 is the second left upon entering the refuge and holds an information desk, exhibits and an auditorium. Toms Cove Visitor Center is at 8586 Beach Road, next to the recreational beach at the end of Beach Road.

Water

No drinking water is listed among the official amenities for this trail. The Park Service names benches/seating, a bicycle rack, auto parking, bus/RV parking, a vault/composting toilet, trailhead access and trash receptacles, but no water. The Park Service safety page urges visitors to bring water and notes that drinking water availability is limited in places. Carry your own, particularly in summer, when refuge gates stay open as late as 10:00 p.m. and the full loop is 3.25 miles.

Dogs

Dogs not allowed

Cell

Not on file

Emergency

Not on file

• Shared vehicle traffic on the loop daily from 3 p.m. to dusk; the refuge asks drivers to use caution and keep to the speed limit
• Ticks and mosquitoes that the refuge warns may carry disease; stay on trails, use repellent, wear long sleeves and long pants, and inspect yourself carefully
• Biting insects may be abundant from May to November per the National Park Service
• Poison ivy is described by the refuge as abundant on the refuge; stay on trails to avoid contact
• Ponies and wildlife may carry disease; do not feed or touch them, and stay at least 40 feet from wild horses per National Park Service guidance
• Sun exposure: the Park Service advises avoiding the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when its rays are strongest, and bringing water
• Lightning: the Park Service advises that if thunder can be heard, lightning is present, and to retreat to a vehicle or other shelter
• Sick or injured wildlife should be given 100 feet of space, and refuge staff contacted