Sitting along the banks of the Potomac River and nestled between the bustle of Washington D.C. and the sprawling nature reserves of northeastern Virginia, the city of Alexandria, VA, is an excellent base for birdwatchers wanting to go on memorable trips and explore the region. If you are searching for the best birdwatching destinations to visit in your 2022 Jeep Renegade, here are three nature reserves you can reach in less than one hour by car.
1. Prince William Forest Park
As one of the most beautiful and photogenic spots in the state of Virginia, Prince William Forest Park is a sprawling nature reserve that covers an area of a little over 16,000 acres and offers excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, camping, picnicking, and wildlife watching. Established in 1936, this public recreation area welcomes almost 380,000 visitors each year from all over the D.C. Metropolitan Area.
Home to a variety of bird species including red-shouldered hawk, hooded warbler, wood thrush, pileated woodpecker, wild turkey, and Canada goose, Prince William Forest Park is a true birder’s paradise and a great spot for anyone wanting to relax and spend some time in nature. Located about 30 miles southwest of downtown Alexandria, this nature reserve can be reached in a little under an hour by car via route I-95.
2. Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Part of the Potomac River National Wildlife Refuge Complex and located on a peninsula in the Potomac River, this beautiful nature reserve spans an area of almost 2280 acres and was established in 1969 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Home to one of the largest populations of bald eagle in the region, this wildlife refuge is also home to a variety of bird species including mourning dove, red-bellied woodpecker, and great crested flycatcher.
Located a little over 20 miles southwest of downtown Alexandria, Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge can be reached in about 40 minutes by car via route I-95. Besides birding, this place is also a popular spot for wildlife photography, selective hunting, and picnicking. Numerous hiking trails crisscross this nature reserve and make it a perfect destination to unwind and enjoy a relaxing stroll in nature.
3. Conway Robinson State Forest
Home to several resident species including red-bellied woodpeckers, white throated sparrows, and ruby-crowned kinglets, Conway Robinson State Forest is another popular birding destination among visitors from Alexandria, Washington, D.C., and other nearby towns and cities. Established in 1938 and covering an area of about 445 acres, this place can be reached in less than an hour by car via route I-66.
Are you ready to hit the road and visit these fantastic locations? While on your way, stop by Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Alexandria and check out our extensive network of new and pre-owned vehicles for sale at the best prices in town!
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