Description
Elevation: 2714 ft.
This former schoolyard contains a wonderful example of a high elevation bog. The Eagle Scout project boardwalk allows you to walk out into the midst of this wetland and see the wildlife of the bog close-up. Watch for orioles, sparrows, swallows and Louisiana waterthrush feeding amid the bog shrubs. Pay particular attention in the spring to how the red-winged blackbirds set up their territories throughout this wetland. Also in the spring, in the early evening, listen for the calls of spring peepers, chorus frogs and American toads. This open wet environment should be a great place to see damsel and dragonflies hunting amid the vegetation. Butterflies such as eastern tiger swallowtail, clouded skipper and painted lady should also be prevalent in these areas.
Wildlife Sightings
140 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at Bent Mountain Public Library:
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 13 Jan 2026 | 5 | Robin Austin |
| 5 Jan 2026 | 6 | Robin Austin |
| 22 Dec 2025 | 14 | Antoinette Pepin |
| 8 Nov 2025 | 19 | Antoinette Pepin |
| 4 Nov 2025 | 1 | Robin Austin |
Amenities & Accessibility
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Birdability Report Available
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Amenities: Hiking Trails, Viewing Blinds
Accessibility Considerations
This location has a Birdability Site Review available
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 10148 Tinsley Ln, Bent Mountain, VA 24059
From the Previous Site on the Roanoke Valley Loop of the VBWT:
From Happy Hollow Gardens, return to US 221 and turn right. Follow US 221 South for 4.9 miles to the top of Bent Mountain. Turn right onto Tinsley Road/Rt. 711. Follow Tinsley Road for 1.3 miles to the Bent Mountain Public Library on the left. The boardwalk into the bog is behind the library just off the gravel-walking trail.
Site Information
Access Requirements:
- Free, Daily
Contact Information:
- Roanoke County 540-387-6078
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.