For Sale

The Riverfront Preserve

$3,950,000 Williamsburg, VA 395± Deeded Acres

Executive Summary

The Riverfront Preserve is an exceptional 395± acre opportunity on the Virginia Peninsula. The property has a coveted end-of-the-road location and sits at the confluence of Ware Creek and the York River. Privacy is further enhanced by the immediate neighbors, including the 2,600-acre Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area to the north, and the 2,300-acre Stonehouse Preserve to the west, which is under conservation easement. York River State Park, an additional 2,950 acres of public land, is just down the road.

At the center of the property is a high, level bluff that rises nearly 100 feet above the York River. It has several elevated homesites that are ideally situated to capture summer breezes and expansive views of the York River. The potential of the Preserve is readily apparent, and with its recreational opportunities, extensive water frontage, and convenient location, it seems destined to become a classic Virginia “River House” or family retreat. Historic Williamsburg is only fifteen minutes away, and both Richmond and Virginia Beach can be reached in under an hour. It is the type of place that can be easily accessed and enjoyed on a regular basis, an increasingly important attribute in today’s world.

Just the Facts

  • 395± acres
  • One mile of frontage on the York River, 1.2 miles of frontage along Ware Creek
  • Private, end-of-the-road location
  • Borders the 2,600± acre Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area
  • Diverse land types, including timbered uplands, biologically rich marshes and wetlands, and a high, central bluff overlooking the York River
  • 15 minutes from Williamsburg, VA
  • 40 minutes from Richmond, VA
  • Two hours 20 minutes from Washington DC
  • Deer, turkey, and waterfowl hunting
  • Extensive water-based recreation opportunities
  • Convenient access to three commercial airports, all within 45 minutes of the property
  • Under conservation easement, four homes plus accompanying improvements permitted


General Description

The land is presently managed for hunting and wildlife, although the recreational possibilities are endless, particularly when it comes to water-based activities. The York River is a large, historic estuary that connects some of the best-known waterways in the region. The Chesapeake Bay is only 26 miles downriver, while the productive Pamunkey and Mattaponi Rivers can be reached just upriver. On the western edge of the property lies Ware Creek, a secluded and scenic tributary that offers miles of kayaking and waterfowl habitat. 

The topography of the property is a major asset, and the Preserve feels much larger than its 395 acres might suggest. Miles of established trails are in place that are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and ATV’s. Healthy deer and turkey populations inhabit the property, and the Atlantic flyway brings in seasonal waterfowl. There are established duck blinds on Ware Creek and the York River, and ample opportunities exist to further develop the hunting resources and wildlife habitat. 

There is a conservation easement on the property that was drafted with flexibility for future owners in mind. Four homes and a wide variety of accompanying improvements are permitted, including docks, piers, boat houses, barns, and equestrian facilities.

Broker's Comments

The Riverfront Preserve is an exceptional waterfront property. The privacy, convenience, views, and elevated central homesites would be hard to replicate. For any buyer looking to create a lasting sporting retreat or “River House”, this should be at the top of their list.

Learn about the locale

Location

The Riverfront Preserve sits just fifteen minutes northwest of Williamsburg, while Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, and Charlottesville can all be easily reached in ninety minutes or less. Washington, D.C. is the nearest major metropolitan area and only two hours and fifteen minutes away. The property itself is accessed on a paved, state-maintained road, and Interstate 64 can be quickly reached in ten minutes.

  • Williamsburg, VA ~ 15 minutes
  • Richmond, VA ~ 40 minutes
  • Norfolk, VA ~ 55 minutes
  • Washington D.C. ~ 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Baltimore, MD ~ 3 hours

Nearby air travel options include Newport News, Richmond, and Norfolk. The nearest FBO, Middle Peninsula Regional Airport, is close by in West Point and has a 5,000 ft runway.

  • Middle Peninsula Regional Airport ~ 25 minutes
  • Newport News/Williamsburg International ~ 25 minutes
  • Richmond International Airport ~ 35 minutes
  • Norfolk International Airport ~ 50 minutes
  • Dulles International Airport ~ 2 hours 20 minutes


Locale

The Virginia Peninsula, also known as the Lower Peninsula, is an area rich in history and is home to some of the earliest settlements and most storied names in American history, including Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown. The long history and settlement of the area has led to a culturally rich and diverse region that encompasses farmland and rural towns, as well as well-developed cities such as Newport News and Hampton. This variety provides the best of both worlds, allowing for a private experience while at The Riverfront Preserve with a wide range of nearby conveniences and amenities when needed. 

Climate

The climate on the Lower Peninsula features four distinct seasons. Spring and fall are ideal with high temperatures in the 70s and lows in the 50s and 60s. Summers are hot and humid but tempered by breezes off the river and easy access to the water. Winters can be cold but are generally mild with highs in the 40s and lows dipping into the 30s. Average rainfall is 47 inches per year, and average snowfall is 6 inches per year. 

Learn more about the property

Acreage (Deeded & Leased)

Deeded Acres: 395±
Total Leased Acres:
Total Acres: 395±

Taxes

Annual property taxes were approximately $19,180 in 2022. 

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