Bush Mill Stream Natural Area Preserve

This preserve is one of the Northern Neck’s many hidden gems. From the parking area, a well-marked trail descends from dry ridge forests to an observation deck overlooking Bush Mill Stream. The platform offers viewing opportunities of the rich, freshwater tidal marsh below. The marsh is alive year-round with great blue herons, other wading birds, bald eagles, osprey, and waterfowl such as wood ducks. Careful observation may reveal a river otter. The preserve is rarely crowded, creating an ideal wildlife-watching experience. A diversity of dragonflies, spring and fall migrant songbirds, wild turkey, and white-tailed deer can all be enjoyed here. If fungi interest you, this is certainly the place to be; the amount and variety inhabiting this area can only be described as a mycologist’s dream.

Please remember that Bush Mill Stream is a Natural Area Preserve and, as such, contains sensitive natural communities. Respect this area by staying on designated paths, leaving pets at home, and not removing anything from the area.