Description
Lake Burnt Mills, a water supply for the City of Norfolk, is a 711-acre reservoir bordered by both dense woodlands and manicured grassy edges. During winter, waterfowl can be spotted with a spotting scope or binoculars from an elevated berm, and spotted sandpiper, yellowlegs, and other shorebirds can be seen during migration. The swampy embankments of this reservoir are home to a variety of amphibians including southern toad, pickerel and green frogs, and green treefrog. During summer, dragonflies and damselflies are also abundant.
Note: To boat, canoe, or kayak on the reservoir, a boat permit is required from the City of Norfolk.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Lake Burnt Mills (as reported to eBird)
- Canada Goose
- Green-winged Teal
- Ring-necked Duck
- Bufflehead
- Ring-billed Gull
- Pied-billed Grebe
- Double-crested Cormorant
- Hooded Merganser
- Ruddy Duck
- Great Blue Heron
Amenities & Access Considerations
Amenities
- Fee
- Parking
- Restrooms
Maps & Directions
Physical Location: Intersection of Kirk Rd. and Everets Rd., Suffolk, VA 23434
From the Previous Site on the Suffolk Loop of the VBWT:
From Lone Star Lakes, return to SR 125 and turn right. Follow SR 125 to SR 10 and turn left. Follow this for 0.8 miles to Rt. 603. Veer off to the right onto Rt. 603 and follow it for 2.2 miles to Lake Burnt Mills. Viewable only by boat.
What to Know Before Visiting
The Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail is a network of more than 500 premier wildlife viewing sites across the state. Walk a nature trail, paddle a river, or enjoy a scenic overlook and you’ll soon understand what makes Virginia a premier destination for birding and wildlife viewing.