Description
This park consists of a mature deciduous forest bordering the Potomac River. This stretch of the river is an interesting counterpoint to the drama of Great Falls. Rock islands interspersed in the river provide beautiful contrast to the placid flow of the river.
An extensive trail system and a visitor center provide excellent facilities to enhance wildlife viewing. This site provides excellent opportunities for viewing eastern deciduous bird species in the fall and spring, and waterfowl along the Potomac River in winter. A 14-acre tall grass meadow provides viewing opportunities for songbirds and butterflies. Bald eagle and osprey are two of the typical birds found here. Extensive butterfly gardens around the visitor center provide good viewing opportunities as well.
For wildlife viewing by water, canoe and kayak rentals are available seasonally (May – October).
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Riverbend Park (as reported to eBird)
- Canada Goose
- Gadwall
- Mallard
- American Black Duck
- Bufflehead
- Hooded Merganser
- Common Merganser
- Turkey Vulture
- Red-shouldered Hawk
- Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Amenities & Access Considerations
Amenities
- Bike Trails
- Environmental Study Area
- Accessible
- Hiking Trails
- Information
- Interpretive Nature Program
- Interpretive Trail
- Parking
- Picnic
- Restrooms
Maps & Directions
From Previous Site on the Great Falls Loop of VBWT:
From Great Falls National Park, return on Old Dominion Rd to Georgetown Pike/SR 193. Go north (right) on SR 193 for 0.3 miles and turn right on River Bend Rd. Travel 2.2 miles and turn right on Jeffrey Rd. The entrance is 0.8 miles from the turn, on the right, and the nature center is another 0.6 miles from the entrance.
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.