Description
The entire Town of Occoquan, located along the Occoquan River, has been designated as a bird sanctuary. For a quiet and scenic view of the river, with access to riparian woodlands, visitors can cross the footbridge near the water treatment facility, turn right and walk along the quiet road. Walnut, sycamore, princess tree, and tulip poplar trees shade this roadway. An understory of grapevine, poison ivy, and greenbriar provide food and cover for songbirds. Roadside plants such as Queen Anne’s lace, passionflower, and trumpet vine provide food for ruby-throated hummingbird and a variety of butterflies. The bridge allows a good opportunity to look for the locally common mallard, Canada goose, and belted kingfisher. Additional waterfowl occur during winter.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Town of Occoquan:
- Double-crested Cormorant
- Great Blue Heron
- Black Vulture
- Turkey Vulture
- Osprey
- Eastern Wood-Pewee
- Eastern Kingbird
- Carolina Chickadee
- Carolina Wren
- American Robin
116 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Aug 2026 | 12 | John Aleknavage |
| 2 Aug 2026 | 5 | John Aleknavage |
| 14 Jun 2026 | 1 | Anonymous eBirder |
| 8 Jun 2026 | 26 | Richard H |
| 25 May 2026 | 6 | Robin Wilson |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Maps & Directions
From I-95 South, take Exit 160/SR 123 North, approximately 0.7 miles to Commerce Street. Turn left, drive 1 block, turn right on Washington Street, proceed one block, turn left on Mill Street, go 3 blocks and park near the dead end by the water treatment plant.
Site Information
Managed By:
- Town of Occoquan
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.