Description
This 70-acre park, part of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, provides access to the Potomac River and opportunity to view local wildlife. The oak, beech, and tulip poplar woodland, along with brushy edges, provide habitat for a large number of breeding birds. As part of their interpretive program and in partnership with the Raptor Conservancy of Virginia, the nature center maintains several injured non-releasable birds of prey, including red-tailed hawk, barred owl, and great-horned owl. There are also native plant gardens and an organic vegetable garden. Be sure to pick up a trail map at the visitor center. While you’re there, check out their collection of reptiles and amphibians.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Potomac Overlook Regional Park (as reported to eBird)
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Downy Woodpecker
- American Crow
- Fish Crow
- Carolina Chickadee
- Tufted Titmouse
- White-breasted Nuthatch
- American Robin
- Northern Cardinal
- Carolina Wren
Amenities & Access Considerations
Amenities
- Accessible
- Hiking Trails
- Information
- Interpretive Nature Program
- Parking
- Picnic
- Restrooms
Maps & Directions
From Previous Site on the Great Falls Loop of VBWT:
Exit Fort C.F. Smith Park and return to Lorcom Lane. Turn right (northwest) and go 0.1 miles to Nelly Custis Dr. Turn right onto Nelly Custis Dr and continue for 0.3 miles. Here, Nelly Custis Dr becomes Military Road; continue 0.1 miles on Military Rd. Turn right onto Marcey Rd and proceed for 0.3 miles. Potomac Overlook Regional Park and Nature Center is at the end of the road.
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.