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

Mason Neck State Park

703-339-2385, MasonNeck@dcr.virginia.gov

Mason Neck is great for birding.

Type of birds

Eagles - year-round. It is best to view them in the winter when leaves don’t block the view. There are many eagle nests in the park.Osprey – spring and summer. There’s a post that the Osprey usually nest on near the visitor center. Sometimes geese take it over, but even then you’ll see osprey flying over the bay. Tundra Swans - November through February. The swans travel to Mason Neck from Alaska during winter.

Best time of year to observe

Great Blue Heron - year-round. Nesting activity peaks in April, but they can be seen throughout the year in the park. Other birds - barred owls, northern cardinals, sharp shinned hawks, Cooper's hawks, red-tailed hawks, eastern bluebirds, red-bellied woodpeckers, red-headed woodpeckers and more.

Best places in the park to observe

The park has multiple observation platforms. They’re on Eagle Spur Trail, Meadow View Trail, Marsh View Trail and Bay View Trail. There is also a platform that’s perfect for viewing tundra swans; it’s on the Wood Marsh Trail.

Special birding programs and events

Birding program throughout the year: Eagle Watch; Osprey Observations; Owl Prowl; Birding 101; Tundra Swan Hikes. The park also hosts the Eagle Festival.

See all Birding Events

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