Description
Sandy Bottom Nature Park is comprised of 456 acres, almost all of which remains in its natural state. Habitats include forest, wooded and marshy wetlands, open water, and lake edge. Platforms on the water’s edge are convenient spots to view flocks of migrating bufflehead and other waterfowl, as well as transient shorebirds that feed along the lake margins. Boats may be rented to further explore the aquatic habitats. Visitors may wish to call ahead to inquire about the numerous guided walks and other programs offered by the nature center. Brochures are also available to explain some of the features along approximately eight miles of trails. Because the habitat has been left in a relatively unmodified state, breeding and migratory birds are abundant, as are many species of reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. The gardens outside the nature center are excellent places to study butterflies and the local varieties of dragonflies.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Sandy Bottom Nature Park:
- Canada Goose
- Mallard
- Ring-necked Duck
- Hooded Merganser
- Ruddy Duck
- Double-crested Cormorant
- Great Blue Heron
- American Crow
- White-breasted Nuthatch
- Northern Mockingbird
200 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 30 Jan 2026 | 13 | Rob Bielawski |
| 17 Jan 2026 | 10 | Sarah Ware |
| 17 Jan 2026 | 3 | Sandy Graham |
| 15 Jan 2026 | 25 | Jacob Jones |
| 13 Jan 2026 | 9 | Molly Elliott |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Site Amenities: Bike Trails, Camping/Lodging, Hiking Trails, Interpretive Program/Events, Observation Tower/Platform, Visitor/Nature Center
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 1255 Big Bethel Rd., Hampton, VA 23666
From I-64, take exit 261A for Hampton Roads Center Pkwy. Turn right onto Big Bethel Rd.
Site Information
Managed By:
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.
