Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge sits off Occoquan Bay on the banks of the Potomac River and is one of fifteen refuges found in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The refuge was first established in 1998 to protect habitat for migratory birds and endangered species. The refuges grasslands, marshes and forests serve as ideal habitat for the hundreds of species of mammals, plants and birds that have been documented at the refuge. Occoquan Bay NWR is managed as part of the Potomac River National Wildlife Refuge Complex, which also includes Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck NWR and Featherstone NWR.
In addition to protecting the region’s natural resources, the refuge also provides educational and recreational experiences for the public through programs, fishing demonstrations, wildlife observations, hiking trails, biking and more. The refuge is open year-round with the hours depending on the season.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service