Description
Forested, scrub, and emergent wetland communities create a natural mosaic with edge transitions that maximize wildlife habitat. A chip-surfaced trail goes through and around a relatively dry section of marsh. Viewing the larger marsh is more difficult, but worthwhile, particularly in winter, when waterfowl occur here in large numbers. A duck blind provides photographic opportunities. Arrays of songbirds occur here in summer and during migrations, and winter brings a full complement of grassland birds to the dry, grassy part of the wetland. A bird list is posted at the entrance to the wetland.
The Julie J Metz Neabsco Creek Wetlands Preserve is part of the Potomac Heritage Trail, a National Park Service Trail that runs from the Allegheny Highlands to the mouth of the Potomac River.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at J. Metz Neabsco Creek Wetlands Preserve:
- Canada Goose
- Gadwall
- Mallard
- Hooded Merganser
- Ring-billed Gull
- American Herring Gull
- Great Black-backed Gull
- Turkey Vulture
- Red-shouldered Hawk
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
216 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 23 Jan 2026 | 19 | David Ledwith |
| 23 Jan 2026 | 19 | Erik Wilkins |
| 19 Jan 2026 | 25 | Michael Mayer |
| 17 Jan 2026 | 5 | Laurie Lemons |
| 17 Jan 2026 | 14 | Erica Hill |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Site Amenities: Hiking Trails, Viewing Blinds
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 15875 Neabsco Rd, Woodbridge, VA 22191
From I-95 take exit 156 to Rippon Landing Blvd. Turn right onto Route 1. Turn left on Neabsco Road. Follow Neabsco Road just past Leesylvania Elementary School. The parking lot is on your left.
Site Information
Managed By:
- Prince Willliam County
Access Requirements:
Contact Information:
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.
