Birding
Bear Creek Lake State Park
804-492-4410, BearCreek@dcr.virginia.gov
Bear Creek Lake is in the central Piedmont of Virginia. It has a wide variety of habitat.
Type of birds
Migrant species take advantage of the lake and surrounding shoreline habitat. Wetland and mesic areas support a wide range of bird species. Visit eBird for a list of bird observations at the park.Best time of year to observe
The best time to view warblers, such as the black and white warbler and northern parulas, is April through June. The early spring and autumn are great for osprey and, occasionally, bald eagles. Woodpecker species are abundant throughout the year.Best places in the park to observe
Trails, such as Channel Cat Loop, Lost Barr Loop and Lakeside Trail, meander through several distinct habitats allowing birders to see a variety of species.Special birding programs and events
The park occasionally offers guided birding basics programs. The annual Bluebird House Building workshop in February is presented in partnership with the Virginia Master Naturalist Central Piedmont chapter and draws many local birders. A brochure-format checklist of species commonly seen at the parks is available year-round at the park office and the Lakeside Snack Bar.Recent blogs about Birds
- A treasure in our own backyard: Sweet Run State Park
- 5 things to experience at Kiptopeke State Park
- 5 things to experience at Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park
- 5 things to experience at Mason Neck State Park
- Birding festival 1st weekend in May at Hungry Mother honors longtime volunteer Randy Smith
- More recent blogs about Birds.
