State Parks and National Parks

Mason Neck State Park

Mason Neck State Park, a 1,814-acre peninsula just outside Washington D.C., has survived planned "conversions" into an airport, natural gas pipeline, landfill and sewer line, now includes three miles of wooded hiking trails bordering Belmont Bay and three miles of paved bike trails.

Elevated walkways allow visitors to explore marshlands, and a visitor center offers exhibits of area history and plant and animal life.

Located along a major flyway, the park provides excellent birdwatching. Osprey, bald eagles, herons and hawks are among the species found here.

There is a heron rookery nearby on nearby Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge.

Many visitors combine birdwatching and canoeing.

There is a primitive boat launch for canoes and kayaks, which along with bicycles are available for rent at the park.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.