Description
Riverside Park is nestled between the Parkway and the Potomac River. This park highlights the importance of preserving ecologically significant sites near urban complexes. They offer great wildlife viewing and recreational opportunities close to population centers through the conservation of key wild places.
The park is a terrific spot for observing fall and spring migrants. A trail runs along the river through riparian woodlands providing opportunities to view both migrating and breeding songbirds. Open vistas overlooking the Potomac feature views of osprey and wintering waterfowl. Open grassy areas host dragonflies and song sparrows during summer months.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Riverside Park:
- Canada Goose
- Lesser Scaup
- Bufflehead
- Common Goldeneye
- Ruddy Duck
- Mourning Dove
- Ring-billed Gull
- Pied-billed Grebe
- Horned Grebe
- Double-crested Cormorant
176 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 19 Mar 2026 | 19 | Thomas Showalter |
| 18 Mar 2026 | 4 | M Heidel |
| 18 Mar 2026 | 25 | Peyton Stone |
| 17 Mar 2026 | 9 | Thomas Showalter |
| 17 Mar 2026 | 3 | Nik C. |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Site Amenities: Bike Trails, Hiking Trails
Maps & Directions
From Previous Site on the Mason Neck Loop of VBWT:
From Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve, turn left onto George Washington Memorial Parkway. Drive 6.3 miles and turn left into Riverside Park.
Site Information
Managed By:
- National Park Service
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.