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
Pocahontas State Park
804-796-4255, Pocahontas@dcr.virginia.gov
As part of the Appomattox Loop on the Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail and encompassing nearly 8,000 acres, Pocahontas State Park is home to many bird species. Bald eagles can be found along Swift Creek Lake, herons are often spotted at the Beaver Lake spillway, and various warblers and other songbirds are found in the park's deciduous forests, grassy openings and pines.
Type of birds
Geese, mallards, doves, herons, woodpeckers, phoebes, blue jays and crows are commonly seen year-round.
Best time of year to observe
Geese, cardinals, songbirds and herons are common throughout the year. Turkeys are often seen in the fall, and bluebirds are abundant in spring and summer.
Best places in the park to observe
Beaver Lake, Big Poplar, Ground Pine and Co-op trails are excellent places to spot birds.
Special birding programs and events
Introductory bird watching programs are held throughout the year, with special programs on National American Eagle Day (June 20) and World Migratory Bird Day (Second Saturday in May).
Recent blogs about Birds
- Inaugural birding festival to honor Randy Smith, longtime Hungry Mother volunteer
- 5 ways to spend more time in nature in 2024
- Widewater State Park Provides Access to the Potomac River and Aquia Creek
- Brush up on nature at Hungry Mother
- Hungry Mother welcomes back feathered friends
- More recent blogs about Birds.
