National Parks

National Parks

The majority of the British Virgin Islands are uninhabited by people, and are designated as National Park space. As the custodians of some of the BVI’s most celebrated natural treasures, the BVI National Parks Trust is responsible for the care and keeping of these precious lands, natural baths, lagoons, reefs, ruins and habitats. Through the preservation of these timeless sanctuaries, the natural splendor of the British Virgin Islands can continue to transport visitors from around the world to an unspoiled paradise, and preserve the richness of the archipelago’s verdant charm for many more generations.

Cam Bay National Park

British Virgin Islands
(284) 494-2069
bvinpt@bvinationalparkstrust.org
National Parks Trust's Website

Established in 1999 | Area: 19.6 acres Cam Bay, on the eastern shore of Great Camanoe, is comprised of an extensive shallow reef and lagoon system. Its calm waters, colourful reef fish and pristine marine environment attract swimmers and snorkelers. Birdwatchers enjoy the salt pond, where a variety of migratory wading birds and shorebirds can be seen. Pottery shards discovered in Cam Bay also suggest the presence of a pre-Columbian settlement in the area. National Parks Trust Description: An extensive shallow reef and lagoon system dominates Cam Bay, on the eastern shore of Great Camanoe. This is a popular anchorage with sailors, due to calm waters and pristine marine environment for swimming and snorkelling. A white sand beach curves around the bay, encouraging hikersonshore to explore the salt pond that separates Cam Bay from Lee Bay and divides Great Camanoe in half. Surrounded by woodland and cactus scrub, the salt pond traps seidment from freshwater run-off, which would otherwise affect the reef growth within the bays. Birdwatchers will enjoy watching migratory wading birds and shorebirds that are attracted to this habitat, such as American coots (Fulica americana), black-necked stilts (Himantopus mexicanus), blue-winged teals (Anas discors), Caribbean coots (F. caribbea), common moorhens (Gallinula chloropus), ruddy ducks (Oxyura jamaicensis), white-cheeked pintails (A. bahamensis) and sooty terns (Sterna fuscata). Snorkellers can mingle with colourful reef fish such as the Yellowtail Snapper (Ocyrus chrysurus), Bar Jack FIsh (Caranx ruber), Schoolmaster (Lutjanus apodus), Sharpnose Puffer (Canthigaster rostrata), Slippery Dick (Halichoeres bivittatus) and Spotted Goatfish (Pseudupeneus maculatus). Green turtles (Chelonia myda) may also be spotted as they feed on the sea grass beds in the lagoon. In addition to the ecological importance of the area, there is evidence of a pre-Colimbian settlement in the ba, as pottery shards discovered in Cam Bay were carbon-dated at 800 A.D..

An Island In The Middle Of A Body Of Water With Necker Island In The Background

Dead Chest National Park

British Virgin Islands
(284) 494-2069

Dead Chest Island, an uninhabited National Park, has three dive sites reached by dinghy from Deadman's Bay. Coral Gardens, a friendly site for novices and snorkelers in very calm weather (but watch for boat traffic), which gets its name from the many massive heads of brain, star, and sheet corals resembling an aquatic garden. Dead Chest West, a series of discoveries, including an archway, caves, bowls, and mazes. Dead Chest Island reputedly got its name when the notorious Blackbeard, after a mutiny, put 15 men ashore on this island with only a bottle of rum, hence the song: "15 men on a dead man's chest, yo ho ho and a bottle of rum."

An Island In The Middle Of A Body Of Water

Devil's Bay National Park

British Virgin Islands
(284) 494-2069
bvinpt@bvinationalparkstrust.org
National Parks Trust's Website

Established in 1964 | Area: 58 acres A 15-minute hike from the top of The Baths brings you to the picturesque Devil's Bay, at Virgin Gorda's south-western tip. Its beaches are a tranquil location for swimming and snorkelling. Mooring buoys and a dinghy dock allow boaters to access the beach. National Parks Trust's Description: At the southwestern tip of Virgin Gorda is a picturesque Devil's Bay. This horseshoe shaped bay is a welcome sight at the end of the 15 minute hike through dry scrub vegetation and boulders from the car park at the top of the Baths. A second trail at the eastern end leads visitors to The Bathsm through massive granite boulders, where hikers should be prepared to crawl, climb ladders and wade through water. Caution must be used at all times to avoid slipping or failing. A tranquil location for swimming and snorkelling, or just relaxing under the shade umbrellas, Devil's Bay is one of Virgin Gorda's most beautiful beaches. At the southern end of the beach is a trail to Stoney Bay, where the Atlantic swells pummel the coastline and seabirds soar overhead. Swim line markers guide dinghies safely through the channel and into the bay, where a dinghy dock awaits for easy access to the beach. Vessels can use mooring buoys conveniently located outside the bay, preventing anchor damage to the fragile coral heads. Mooring permits must be obtained for the use of these morring buoys.

A Group Of People On A Beach Near A Body Of Water

Diamond Cay

British Virgin Islands
(284) 494-2069
bvinpt@bvinationalparkstrust.org
National Parks Trust's Website

Established in 1991 | Area: 1.25 acres Diamond Cay, declared a national park in 1991, is located off Long Bay, Jost Van Dyke. Like most other islands that have been declared National Parks, Diamond Cay is a bird sanctuary. The 1.25 acre nesting site is home to several species of bird, including tern, boobies, and pelicans. The island is part of a proposed protected area, which includes the privately owned islands of Sandy Cay, Sandy Spit, a portion of Little Jost Van Dyke, and the surrounding marine area. The endangered leatherback turtle nests on Sandy Cay. Two species of lizard live on Sandy Spit. The volcanic nature of the island is more pronounced on the windward side, with bare, rocky cliffs, while the leeward side is lined with sandy beaches. The area has several day anchorages close to vibrant reefs, for snorkelling, and a hiking trail on Sandy Cay. Boaters should be cautious and conscientious about anchoring in sand only to avoid damaging the reefs.

Fallen Jerusalem National Park

British Virgin Islands
(284) 494-2069
bvinpt@bvinationalparkstrust.org
National Parks Trust's Website

Established in 1974 | Area: 48 acres The island of Fallen Jerusalem is 48 acres and is comprised of beautiful coastal vegetation and strewn with enormous boulders, similar to those found at The Baths. Declared a Bird Sanctuary in 1959, because of its importance as a sanctuary for several species of birds. The endangered red-billed tropic bird finds refuge on the island. In addition, Fallen Jerusalem is an important nesting site for seabirds such as the brown boobies, laughing gulls, noddies and brown pelicans, along with sandwich, royal and bridled terns. Secluded beaches border delightful snorkelling areas; North Lee Bay beach being the best on the island. On the northwest shore, underwater tunnels and caves are a haven for nocturnal fish, while schools of glassy sweepers glisten like bits of shiny copper. Overnighting is not encouraged, as there is no safe, overnight anchorage.

A Body Of Water With A Mountain In The Background

Gorda Peak National Park

British Virgin Islands
(284) 494-2069
bvinpt@bvinationalparkstrust.org
National Parks Trust's Website

Established in 1974 | Area: 260 acres The highest point on Virgin Gorda at 1,370 ft. Gorda Peak is located on the northwestern ridge, south of North Sound and north of Soldier Bay. Donated by Laurance Rockefeller in 1974, Gorda Peak is one of th elast remaining examples of Caribbean dry forest in the region, which makes it a high priority for conservation internationally. Research conducted bt the National Parks Trust through the Darwin Initiative Programme revealed regionally restricted and endangered plant speciaes, including Calptranthese thomasiana and Zanthoxylum thomasiana, both of which are on the US Federal Endangered Species list. The variety of vegetation types found within the Park varies with the elevation, from dry scrub forest to a moister forest at higher elevations. Many of the plants have adapted to these dry conditions and produce small waxy leaves that reduce evaporation, allowing them to retain as much water as possible. Gorda Peak is also home to the world's smallest lizard, the endemic Virgin Gorda gecko (Sphaerodactylus rarthenopion). Following trails that lead to the lookout tower at the Peak, hikers are rewarded with a panoramic view of the BVI, particularly the popular anchorage at North Sound. On a clear day Anegada is visible on the horizon to the northeast. A pinic site is conveniently placed under a mango tree (Mangifera indica) at the junction of the east and west trails, attracting zebra butterflies and Antillean Crested Hummingbirds (Orthorhynus cristatus).

J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens

Road Town
British Virgin Islands
(284) 494-2069
bvinpt@bvinationalparkstrust.org
National Parks Trust's Website

Established in 1979 | Area: 2.87 acres J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens are a cool and peaceful refuge located in the centre of Road Town. The four-acre gardens include a lush array of indigenous and exotic tropical plants. A pergola walk, lily pond, waterfall, tropical bird houses, and miniature rain forests are just a few of the garden's attractions. The gardens are considered by many to be among the finest in the Caribbean. National Parks Trust's Description: At the site of the century old Agricultural Experiment Station, the Botanic Gardens are a beautiful oasis in the centre of Road Town. They are named after the BVI's first conservationist, Joseph Reynold O'Neal who was a leading figure in the formation of the National Parks Trust and the establishment of the BVI's first national park, Mt. Sage National Park. The avenue of royal palms which leads to the fountain makes a captivating entrance for visitors, whilst paths disappear into corners of the garden lined with colourful blossoms drapped over shady pergolas. The boatic collections represent the different habitats of the BVI such as the rainforest, coastal environments and dry forests, in addtion to displays of exotic species and an extensive collection of palms. A gazebo of orchids both, native and exotic can be discovered by the pond, where lilies float and tortoises swim. The nursery at the garden is an important repository for endangered species of flora found within the BVI, such as the Acacia anegardensis, ensuring their survival from habitat loss.

Little Fort National Park

British Virgin Islands
(284) 494-2069
bvinpt@bvinationalparkstrust.org
National Parks Trust's Website

Established in 1978 | Area: 36 acres Little Fort National Park can be found just south of the Yacht Harbour. It was the site of a Spanish fortress and some masonry walls still exist on the hillside, including the ruins of a structure called the Powder House. The 36-acre area is also a wildlife sanctuary. National Parks Trust's Description: Hidden amongst the enormous boulders at Fort Point, between Spanish Town and Big Trunk Bay is Little Fort. The site includes a small forfication and masonry ruins, including a munitions store on the hillside. Access is very difficult at this undeveloped site, as hikers must cross the rugged terrain and dense vegetation. The only area readily accessible for entrance into the park is located at the seashore, from here a difficult hiking trail leads to the munitions store. Three walls surround a small magazine room, sheltered by a ceiling made for mortar and stone. Thick stonewalls have prevented the structure from total collapse, although overgrown vegetation and tree roots have inundated the ruins. Epiphytes (plants that grow on another plant but are not parasitic), such as bromeliads (Bromelia sp.) are common in this area. Pitch apple trees (Clusia rosea) and mature silk cotton trees (Ceiba pentandra) flourish here. Turtle nesting is known to occur at Valey Trunk Bay, just below the southern boundary of Fort Point National Park.

Little Tobago / Great Tobago National Park

British Virgin Islands
(284) 494-2069
bvinpt@bvinationalparkstrust.org
National Parks Trust's Website

Established in 1995 (Great Tobago) 1998 (Little Tobago) | Areas: 210 acres (Great Tobago) and 55 acres (Little Tobago) At the north-western corner of the BVI chain lie the Tobago Cays, two islands surrounded by rugged cliffs, and whose sea beds slope dramatically to depths of 165 feet. The cays are an excellent habitat for seabird nesting, as Great Tobago is the only nesting site in the BVI for the magnificent frigate birds. East of this island, experienced divers can explore the waters around Mercurious Rock, where open ocean meets land and shoals of fish congregate. National Parks Trust's Description: The Tobago Cays are perched on the northwestern corner of the BVI chain, west of Jost Van Dyke and north of St. John, USVI. Rugged cliffs surround the islands, extending into the ocean where the seabed slopes dramatically to depths of up to 165 feet. Watson's Rock lies in the channel between the two islands, a warning of the hidden rocky pinnacles that are scattered around the cays. Experienced divers can explore the waters around Mercurious Rock, east of Great Tobago where the open ocean meets land and shoals of fish congregate. On the south side of the island there is a complex system of shallow reefs, bank pavement and sand channels; however these sites are prone to swells and caution should be used at all times. The stepps cliffs make the islands virtually inaccessible, thereby making them excellent habitats for seabirds nesting. Great Tobago is the only nesting site in the BVI for magnificent frigate birds (Fregata magnificent). This is probably due to the wind currents that are funneled through the valley on the east sife of the island that enable the birds to that off easily. These seabirds never actually land on water since their plumage cannot get wet as this will prevent take off. This is linked to the fact that they have one of the largest wingspan vs. weight rations at 10 feet : 3lbs. As magnificent frigate birds nest in trees, they risk habitat loss due to hurricanes or denudation by feral animals, such as goats. Fishing lines and hooks are also a threat, as birds follow fishing boats and get caught in the lines when searching for a free meal.

National Parks

Cam Bay National Park

Dead Chest National Park

Devil's Bay National Park

Diamond Cay

Fallen Jerusalem National Park

Gorda Peak National Park

J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens

Little Fort National Park

Little Tobago / Great Tobago National Park

Island Hopping

The Islands

Anegada

Beaches

Experiences

Stays

Wildlife

Jost Van Dyke

Beaches

Experiences

Stays

Wildlife

Tortola

Beaches

Experiences

Stays

Wildlife

Virgin Gorda

Beaches

Experiences

Stays

Wildlife

Other Islands

Beaches

Experiences

Stays

Wildlife

Most Commonly Searched Terms

The Islands ()

Experiences ()

Stays ()

Beaches ()

National Parks

Cam Bay National Park

Dead Chest National Park

Devil's Bay National Park

Diamond Cay

Fallen Jerusalem National Park

Gorda Peak National Park

J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens

Little Fort National Park

Little Tobago / Great Tobago National Park

Island Hopping

The Islands

Anegada

Beaches

Experiences

Stays

Wildlife

Jost Van Dyke

Beaches

Experiences

Stays

Wildlife

Tortola

Beaches

Experiences

Stays

Wildlife

Virgin Gorda

Beaches

Experiences

Stays

Wildlife

Other Islands

Beaches

Experiences

Stays

Wildlife