Description
An observation deck and accessible boardwalk offer superb birding opportunities as well as excellent views of the freshwater tidal marsh. Bald Eagle and Osprey patrol the skies above the marsh, while herons and egrets hunt in its waters. Late fall is prime viewing season for migrating and wintering waterfowl that stop to utilize Cumberland Marsh for feeding and resting. River otter and other aquatic mammals also find the marsh hospitable. The forest that buffers the wetlands of Holt’s Creek hosts a number of migratory songbirds during the spring and fall. Birding along the hiking trails will typically turn up a variety of species.
Wildlife Sightings
193 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at The Nature Conservancy’s Vandell Preserve at Cumberland Marsh:
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 14 Mar 2026 | 32 | Michael Lipford |
| 14 Mar 2026 | 32 | Allen Cumbia |
| 27 Feb 2026 | 52 | Allen Cumbia |
| 21 Feb 2026 | 51 | Andrew Rapp |
| 16 Feb 2026 | 33 | Eli Kenyon |
Amenities & Accessibility
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Birdability Report Available
Other Amenities: Hiking Trails
Accessibility Considerations
This location has a Birdability Site Review available
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
Maps & Directions
Parking Area GPS Coordinates: 37.548001, -76.982273
From Richmond, head east on I-64, take exit 214 for VA-155/N Courthouse Rd, turn left onto VA-155/N Courthouse Rd, turn right onto VA-249/New Kent Hwy, turn left onto SR-637/Cumberland Rd, in approximately 2.2 miles, keep left and follow the road to the parking area.
Site Information
Managed By:
- The Nature Conservancy
Access Requirements:
- Free, Daily
Contact Information:
- Phone: 434-295-6106
- 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.