York River State Park

The 2,531 acres of York River State Park offer upland forests, riparian thickets, marshy creeks, brackish inlets, a pond, and open fields. With so many habitats close at hand, it is not surprising that birders have recorded 70 species in a morning’s outing. There are a number of trails throughout the park, though birders seem to favor the Taskinas Creek Trail, which offers a glimpse at the greatest diversity of habitats, including estuaries, bottomland marsh and hardwoods, as well as, mixed deciduous and pine forests. Other trails recommended by birders include the Backbone Trail, Woodstock Pond Trail, and Majestic Oak Trail. A variety of dragonflies and damselflies may be seen in the wetlands and butterflies are plentiful. During winter, diving ducks often congregate on the York River behind the visitor’s center. Kayaks and canoes are available for rental seasonally, allowing for exploration by water.