Description
Elevation: 2324 ft.
This boat landing provides access to a relatively wide and deep stretch of the New River. Here the muddy riverbanks support spotted sandpiper during migration and a few during the summer months. Other wading birds in the area include great blue and green herons. The riverside vegetation provides habitat for several species of open country birds. In the grassy areas near the water, look for a variety of wildflowers. Black-eyed Susan are the most obvious, although small more subtle flowers such as the star-like lesser stitchwort can also be found with some searching.
Notes:
- Do not trust GPS routing. Please see detailed directions below.
Wildlife Sightings
79 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at Independence Public Boat Landing:
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Jan 2025 | 3 | Robert Riggs |
| 3 Jan 2025 | 3 | Elaine Sharpe |
| 10 Apr 2024 | 7 | Richard Gray |
| 2 Apr 2024 | 7 | Lisa Mease |
| 2 Apr 2024 | 7 | DWR Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail Team |
Amenities & Accessibility
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Kayak/Canoe Launch
- Boat Ramp
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Accessibility Considerations
This location does not have a Birdability Site Review available at this time
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
Maps & Directions
Physical Coordinates: 36.572043, -81.152056
From Independence, head south on US-21/US-221/New River Pkwy, turn right onto SR-701/Old River Ln, continue onto SR-700/Old River Ln, and the parking area will be on the right in approximately 0.8 miles.
If driving north on US-21/US-221/New River Pkwy, turn left onto SR-701/Old River Ln, continue onto SR-700/Old River Ln, and the parking area will be on the right in approximately 0.8 miles.
Site Information
Managed By:
- VA Dept. of Conservation and Recreation
Access Requirements:
- Free, Daily
Contact Information:
- Virginia DWR - Region 3 office: 276-783-4860, Contact Us
- 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.