Birding at the Birthplace

Birds enjoying Popes Creek

NPS Photo

Discover the Birds of Popes Creek

Nestled along the shores of Popes Creek and the Potomac River, George Washington Birthplace National Monument is more than a historic site—it's a haven for birds and birders alike. With its mix of woodlands, wetlands, meadows, and shoreline, the park offers a rich diversity of habitats that attract over 170 species of birds throughout the year.

Why Bird Here?

Whether you're a seasoned birder or just beginning to notice the cacophony of honks and quacks near the visitor center, the Birthplace offers a peaceful and rewarding birding experience. The park’s quiet trails and shoreline vistas make it easy to spot and hear birds in every season.

Spring migration offers a chance to see raptors in action, while winter migration brings a burst of waterfowl activity.
 

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What You Might See on Popes Creek

• Bald Eagles

• Osprey

• Great Blue Herons

• Tundra Swans

 

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Best Birding Spots

• Popes Creek Footbridge. 

  Great for spotting Herons, Eagles, and Waterfowl

• Nature Trail Loop.

  A quiet walk through forest and wetlands, ideal for songbirds and woodpeckers.

• Visitor Center Back Deck.

  Offers an open vista of Popes Creek year-round.

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Tips for Successful Birding

• Bring binoculars and a field guide or birding app like Merlin.

• Early morning is the best time for bird activity.

• Log your sightings on eBird to contribute to citizen science. Visit eBird here.

• Respect wildlife - observe from a distance and stay on the trails.

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Join a Ranger

Check the park calendar for bird walks and seasonal programs led by rangers and local experts. These guided experiences are perfect for families, beginners, and anyone curious about the birds that call this place home.

Details

Activity

Birdwatching

Pets Allowed

Yes

• Pets are not allowed within the Memorial Area, the Washington Family Burial Ground, or inside park buildings.

• Pets must always be on a leash no longer than six feet in length.

• Bag your pet's waste. Do not leave pet waste bags in trees, on trail posts, or discarded in the woods. If there’s no trash can immediately available, take it with you until you find one.

• Leaving pets unattended in vehicles is strongly discouraged – especially on warm days.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

Service Animals are Allowed.
Access to Popes Creek Footbridge: 

The first is through the Memorial Area, where visitors can choose between two slightly declining paths. Both are covered in crushed oyster shells. One path includes wide stairs, also surfaced with crushed oyster shells and supported by wooden beams to stabilize the terrain. The second access point is located on the opposite side of the creek, along the Nature Trail loop.

Access to the Nature Trail Loop: There are two access points to the Nature Trail. The first location is from the Picnic Area and the second location is from the Memorial Area and crossing the Popes Creek Footbridge. 

Access to the Visitor Center Back Deck: There are two access points to the back deck of the Visitor Center. The first is through the front entrance. From there, take the ramp down to the lower level, where you'll find two exits that lead directly to the back deck. The second access point is outside: turn left at the Visitor Center and follow the concrete sidewalk until you reach a fork in the path. Take the right fork and continue toward the creek. On your right, you'll see a wooden ramp that leads up to the back deck.