A.R. Matthews Memorial Park

Description

Elevation: 1461 ft.

At present, the area includes access to the eastern bank of the State Scenic Clinch River, which is lined with numerous large hardwood trees. Pileated woodpecker, flycatchers, vireos and thrushes can be found along this river embankment. There are several species of endangered mussels in the Clinch River. Feel free to observe them from above, but please do not disturb them. The slightly overgrown dirt road that runs alongside the river has numerous small puddles ideal for frogs such as green and pickerel frogs. Open, grassier areas, where sunlight is able to penetrate through openings in the forest canopy, are frequented by numerous damselflies such as calico pennant and slaty skimmer. When wildflowers within these areas are in bloom, look for butterflies such as zebra swallowtail and red-spotted purple.

Directions

Physical Address: 16642 E Riverside Dr, St Paul, VA 24283

From Norton, head east on US-58 ALT E/Norton-Coeburn Rd./Bull Run Rd., in approximately 38.9 miles, turn left onto 4th Ave., turn right onto E. Riverside Dr., and follow it to one of the parking areas.