Hoffler Creek Wildlife Foundation

I had the pleasure of volunteering here and am happy to see that another great trail exists in Hampton Roads. I was actually a little confused because you have to go through some residential areas to get there, but it is quite spacious and secluded where it is.
This site covers about 140 acres, unless I am misquoting, so it’s pretty spacious for a good walk through nature. There is a 1 mile trail that circles a lake (Lake Ballard). There is all kinds of wildlife that resides in this watershed area, but I wasn’t able to see much of it since we are still on the tail-​end of winter. It also has a some shoreline, abuts a creek, has 5 trails, and hosts some seasonal kayaking. I also noticed that they have a pavilion, which I assume can be used to host an event or gathering, but that is an assumption.
I highly recommend stopping in to check this venue out. I know I will be making some more appearances as the weather gets better.

I know most Unilocalers are all about the food. Don’t get me wrong – I love me some food! But what really whets my whistle are places I can go to get my nature buzz on. I love reading reviews and discovering new parks in the area. My fellow Unilocalers have helped me out with this challenge, which is why I was surprised to only find one review for Hoffler’s. What a great spot and perhaps one that is not so well known.
According to their website, Hoffler Creek Wildlife Refuge is named after a Revolutionary War captain named William Hoffler. The area is rich in history, the surrounding land being settled in the 1600s. It saw action during the Civil War as well. Several years ago, the area was in danger of being sold for development. Send in the cavalry! The heroes were local neighbors who wanted to save the land and preserve it for wildlife and the enjoyment of so many. Thus the Hoffler Creek Wildlife Foundation was formed.
After arriving today, I made my way to the information building. Upon entering, I immediately smelled the remnants of a wood fire. Nice! I signed the log book and listened as the polite young many working there explain about membership. He also told me I could bring my own kayak and he would drive it down to the launch area. If I was a member, this would be free. Now I can’t wait for temps to warm up so I can get on the water.
A quick stop at the port-​a-​potties (right at the parking lot – only bathrooms there that I am aware of) and I was making my way to the trails. I passed a large, covered pavilion and lots of wonderful benches. There is a path around Lake Ballard, which is 1 mile in length. There are several small trails that sprout off of the lake trail, all ¼ to ½ mile long.
The first thing you notice about Hoffler is the tranquility. It was so peaceful walking the trails. The only sounds I heard were birds in the distance. I’m sure some of the quiet was due to the time of year; no doubt the place is busier in the warmer months when everyone is taking advantage of kayaks. The refuge also hosts other activities such as a kids yoga walk, bird walks, volunteer work days, and raptor rehab. These activities are all free for members and usually a $ 5 fee for non-​members.
The two negatives about this place are no pets allowed and no high impact activities such as jogging and biking. However, I understand the reasoning behind these restrictions. There are plenty of other spots in the area to participate in said activities and maybe by doing so, it keeps the crowd level lower at Hoffler.
If you enjoy a peaceful, relaxing walk in the woods and around water, then I highly recommend you get yourself to Hoffler Creek Wildlife Refuge. You won’t be disappointed.

This place is a hidden treasure on the outskirts of portsmouth. «P-​town?» you exclaim.
Yes, P-​tizzle fo’ shizzle.
Around the lake is a 4 mile trail. There are a number of other trails spanning the reserve as well as a kayak dock.
Today, we were on a blackberry picking expedition. Pretty cool stuff. We got to eat the blackberries we picked and they made vanilla ice cream for us to enjoy with the blacberries at the end of the «hike».
This is a great thing to do for kids and adults alike. I’m definitely taking my son… I want him to become one with the wilderness, but I’m sure all he will hear is «ice cream».