Description
Sandy Bottom Nature Park is comprised of 456 acres, almost all of which remains in its natural state. Habitats include forest, wooded and marshy wetlands, open water, and lake edge. Platforms on the water’s edge are convenient spots to view flocks of migrating bufflehead and other waterfowl, as well as transient shorebirds that feed along the lake margins. Boats may be rented to further explore the aquatic habitats. Visitors may wish to call ahead to inquire about the numerous guided walks and other programs offered by the nature center. Brochures are also available to explain some of the features along approximately eight miles of trails. Because the habitat has been left in a relatively unmodified state, breeding and migratory birds are abundant, as are many species of reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. The gardens outside the nature center are excellent places to study butterflies and the local varieties of dragonflies.
Wildlife Sightings
200 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at Sandy Bottom Nature Park:
- Canada Goose
- Gadwall
- Hooded Merganser
- Ring-billed Gull
- Great Blue Heron
- Downy Woodpecker
- Fish Crow
- Carolina Chickadee
- Tufted Titmouse
- White-throated Sparrow
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 20 Feb 2026 | 12 | Berrett Robison |
| 16 Feb 2026 | 11 | Nic Ducharme |
| 15 Feb 2026 | 9 | Hannah Miller |
| 14 Feb 2026 | 12 | Karthik Krishnamurthy |
| 13 Feb 2026 | 28 | Marc Nichols |
Amenities & Accessibility
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Amenities: Bike Trails, Camping/Lodging, Hiking Trails, Interpretive Program/Events, Observation Tower/Platform, Visitor/Nature Center
Accessibility Considerations
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 1255 Big Bethel Rd., Hampton, VA 23666
From I-64, take exit 261A for Hampton Roads Center Pkwy. Turn right onto Big Bethel Rd.
Site Information
Access Requirements:
- Free, Daily, Sunrise-Sunset
Contact Information:
- 757-825-4657, sbottom@hampton.gov
- 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.


