Riverside Park

Important Notices

COVID-19 & the VBWTBefore heading out to visit a site on the Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail, be sure to check if that site has any COVID-19 policies or closures in place. This information is typically posted on a site's own website.

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.

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.

Location & Directions

View on Google Maps

Site Information

  • Site Contact: National Park Service: 703-289-2500
  • Website
  • Access: Free, Daily

Birds Recently Seen at Riverside Park (as reported to eBird)

  • Bufflehead
  • Mourning Dove
  • Ring-billed Gull
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Bald Eagle
  • Carolina Wren
  • Northern Mockingbird
  • American Goldfinch
  • Surf Scoter
  • Ruddy Duck

Seasonal Bird Observations

Facilities

  • Bike Trails
  • Accessible
  • Hiking Trails
  • Parking
  • Phone
  • Picnic
  • Restrooms