The Lake Monticello marina is located near the dam on the east end, offering a fairly expansive view of the lake at one of its widest portions, and with a relatively unobstructed vantage. This should always be one of the stops on any Lake Monticello birding circuit, as it allows you to see into several coves that are not easily viewed otherwise. Birding here is best in the winter months, when the lake can be attractive to a variety of waterfowl. However, any individual birding day can be hit or miss — you may come here and find little or nothing of interest. If you have the proper access to bird the lake at your leisure, it is best to try to come here during times when freezing temperatures limit the availability of open water elsewhere and drive waterfowl to congregate on larger lakes.
Apart from its obvious attractiveness as a spot to scan for waterbirds, the marina also has some noteworthy passerine birding. It has a sizable stand of pines that is one of a relative few reliable locations for Brown-headed Nuthatch in Fluvanna County. It is also a suitable spot for Pine Warbler year round, and can be good for mixed passerine flocks in winter.
Accessibility: Lake Monticello is a gated community that is only accessible with advanced permission coordinated with a resident.
Owner/Manager: Lake Monticello Owners’ Association
eBird Hotspot: Lake Monticello (gated community/restricted access)--Marina