Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m. through April 30 per the 4 p.m. Burning Law. This includes wood and charcoal. Gas is permissible. Campground fires are allowed during the restricted time if a camp host is on duty and signage to that effect is posted in the campground. Failure to observe the 4 p.m. Burning Law can result in a fine. Contact the Park Office for additional information.

Birding

False Cape State Park

757-426-7128, FalseCape@dcr.virginia.gov

The park is just south of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which is managed for migrating birds. This makes False Cape a favorite for many species. The refuge has manmade waterways specifically managed for migratory birds throughout the year. Because access to the park is through the refuge and from North Carolina, guests see many birds along the way and in the park.

Type of birds

In the winter, the refuge raises water levels in the pools, some of which are in False Cape, to provide habitat for wintering waterfowl. Common species to see from November to April in the park include tundra swans, Canada and snow geese, and many ducks including shovelers, mergansers, coots, grebes, black ducks and more.

Best time of year to observe

From April through October, the refuge lowers water levels for shore and wading birds. These can include egrets, herons, ibis, yellowlegs and so on. Spring and summer are also good times to see migrating songbirds such as warblers, sparrows, swallows and more.