Description
This is a popular spot for observing wintering waterfowl. During summer, osprey, green heron, red-winged blackbird, and mallard are common. In addition, summer vegetation along the lakeshore is alive with dragonflies and damselflies.
Wildlife Sightings
155 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at Roaches Run Waterfowl Sanctuary:
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 9 Jan 2026 | 1 | Paul Pisano |
| 6 Jan 2026 | 4 | Ken Rosenthal |
| 4 Jan 2026 | 3 | Rob Batchelder |
| 2 Jan 2026 | 1 | Kirk Gardner |
| 1 Jan 2026 | 3 | Steve Hersey |
Amenities & Accessibility
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- 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
GPS Coordinates: 38.865392, -77.041411
From Previous Site on the Great Falls Loop of VBWT:
From Monticello Park in Alexandria, travel north (left) on Russell Road 0.2 miles and turn left onto West Glebe Road. Go 0.8 miles and turn left onto South Glebe Road/SR 120 North. Proceed 0.1 miles and turn right on I-395 North. Travel to the George Washington Memorial Parkway and follow if south for approximately 0.5 miles to the exit for Roaches Run. The parking lot is on the right side.
Site Information
Managed By:
- National Park Service
Access Requirements:
- Free, Daily
Contact Information:
- National Park Service: 703-289-2500
- 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.