A popular preserve in Berkeley County, Yankauer Preserve is a blend of oak forests surrounded by glades of red cedar and dense thickets of fast-growing shrubs and trees. As you move into the center of the property you find a more mature forest of large oaks and maples growing amid limestone outcrops and sinkholes. The eastern edge of the property is a bluff overlooking the Potomac River. The mixed habitat makes the area ideal for birding. The preserve is a hot spot for Spring wildflower displays, as well as sighting warblers on migration.
At least 105 species of plants have been identified on the Preserve. Clusters of wildflowers such as Dutchmen's Breeches, Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Hepatica, and Twinleaf are easily found in the spring. The autumn fruits of Paw Paw trees provide a snack for wild animals and not-so-wild hikers alike. There is equal diversity among the animals on the Preserve. Spring migration of waterfowl can be spectacular along the river. Breeding season welcomes sweet-singing warblers and vireos as they nest among the cedars. Barred Owls are often heard as they cry out in search for a mate.
Three well marked trails take the visitor through a variety of habitat types on the preserve. The "Kingfisher Trail," a "South Trail," and "Dan Fisher Trail" all loop, and one can walk a large circle across the property. A trail brochure is available on site. The preserve is jointly managed by The Nature Conservancy and The Potomac Valley Audubon Society.
