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:
- Wood Duck
- Mallard
- Bufflehead
- Common Merganser
- Double-crested Cormorant
- Turkey Vulture
- Bald Eagle
- Carolina Chickadee
- Tufted Titmouse
- House Finch
214 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 20 Mar 2026 | 16 | Andrew Tao |
| 20 Mar 2026 | 13 | Karen Fairweather |
| 20 Mar 2026 | 26 | Carl Atkison |
| 19 Mar 2026 | 39 | Bruce Barrow |
| 18 Mar 2026 | 20 | Marijke Gate |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Site Amenities: Bike Trails, Hiking Trails, Interpretive Program/Events
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.
Site Information
Managed By:
- 0
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.