Description

Duff McDuff Green Memorial Park consists of 60 acres of open fields and prolific woodlands along the Rappahannock River southeast of Fredericksburg. The highlight of the park is an observation deck overlooking the river. This deck is a perfect location to look for wood ducks and belted kingfishers on the river, as well as the park’s numerous dragon- and damselflies. In winter these same waters could host common goldeneyes and any of the three merganser species (hooded, common, red-breasted). It is also worth keeping an eye on the sky, since an osprey or bald eagle could soar down the river to join the numerous black vultures in the area.

A short distance from the river, patches of deciduous forest host red-bellied woodpeckers year-round and yellow-bellied sapsuckers in the winter. Migrating species enjoy these stopover patches during their journey. The potential exists for gray catbirds, scarlet and summer tanagers, rose-breasted grosbeaks and a breathtaking assortment of warblers. Move into the more open fields to find chipping sparrows and eastern bluebirds.

Directions

From Fredericksburg Battlefield, turn southeast on US 1 Business/Lafayette Boulevard and return 0.3 miles to SR 3/Blue and Gray Pkwy. Turn left (east) on SR 3/Blue and Gray Pkwy. for 2.9 miles (there will be a stoplight along the way and a right hand turn to stay on SR 3. It becomes Kings Hwy at this point.) Watch for Duff McDuff Park signs. Turn right (west) on James Ashby Parkway and follow it for 0.3 miles into the park.