Due to the expected impact of the winter storm, all Virginia State Park overnight facilities will be closed from Friday, Jan. 23 through Tuesday, Jan. 27. This decision is based on the forecast for unsafe conditions and potential power outages. For updates click here.

Great Backyard Bird Count 2026

Location of James River State Park in Virginia

Where

James River State Park, 104 Green Hill Dr., Gladstone, VA 24553.
Visitor Center

When

Feb. 13, 2026 9:30 a.m. - Feb. 16, 2026 4:00 p.m.

Self-Guided Activity

James River State Park has over 186 bird species; you're sure to see waterfowl, songbirds, and the occasional Bald Eagle and Osprey. Help us research the birds in James River State Park as we participate in this year's Great Backyard Bird Count (GBYBC) hosted by the Audubon Society, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and Birds Canada.

Stop by the Visitor Center (open daily 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.) to pick up a free GBYBC guide with instructions on how to participate and recommendations for trails to explore as part of your birding adventure. Participating is easy, fun to do alone or with others, and can be done anywhere you find birds.

Step 1: Decide where in James River State Park you will watch birds. We have over 22 miles of trail, 3 ponds, 3 miles of shoreline, and over 1500 acres of mixed forest and grassland ecosystems to explore!
Step 2: Watch birds for 15 minutes or more, at least once over the four days, February 13–16, 2026.
Step 3: Identify all the birds you see or hear within your planned time/location and use the best tool for sharing your bird sightings:

If you are a beginning bird admirer and new to bird identification, try using the Merlin Bird ID app to tell us what birds you are seeing or hearing. We will also have birding programs scheduled for February 13 (Owl Prowl at 6 p.m.) and February 14 (Winter Bird Wander at 3 p.m.) as part of the GBYBC, so join us then!

If you have participated in the count before and want to record numbers of birds, try the eBird Mobile app or enter your bird list on the eBird website (desktop/laptop).

Stop by the Visitor Center for your free GBYBC guide. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the weather and don't forget your binoculars! Parks are for everyone, please let us know if you need special accommodation.

For more information, please call (434) 933-4355 or email Tess.Himelspach@dcr.virginia.gov.

Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information here.

Wood Duck

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 434-933-4355
Email Address: JamesRiver@dcr.virginia.gov