The Channels Natural Area Preserve is a 721-acre protected landscape in southwestern Virginia that spans parts of Washington and Russell counties. Established in April 2008, it safeguards notable natural communities and habitats, including high-elevation forests, rock outcrops, and cliffs. The preserve takes its name from its most distinctive feature: eroded crevices and sandstone boulders clustered on part of the land, formations that give the area its special character. It lies within the larger Channels State Forest and is managed by the Virginia Department of Forestry. Both the preserve and the state forest are open to the public, though some state forest activities require an access permit.