Algonkian Regional Park comprises more than 800 acres of land along the Potomac River. It is run by the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority and yields to a variety of uses. Amenities include a golf course, a waterpark, cabins, mini golf, picnic pavilions, boat and RV storage, a boat ramp and a driving range.
The waterpark area and cabins
Mature forest with a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees surrounds the waterpark and cabins. A small brook runs between sections of the parking lots – this brook can provide great habitat for migrating birds to bathe. The tall mature trees surrounding the parking lots are often frequented by migrating birds in spring and fall, leading to the parking lot area sometimes being referred to as 'magical.' A path named the White Trail wanders through the woods among vernal pools and some wetlands. The shrubs and trees get thick at times, providing good cover for thrushes and warblers alike.
The boat ramp and east
The trail from the boat ramp to the east runs along the Potomac River providing visual access to waterfowl, swallows, gulls, etc. At first light during migration, birds often fly into and along the shore, moving from tree to tree in search of food. Warbling Vireos will breed close to the boat ramp. The grassy area to the southeast of the boat ramp is often referred to as the 'Sparrow Field' – it is a wet field, so Marsh Wren and Wilson's Snipe have been found there. The most notable find in the field was a Nelson's Sparrow. Further down the trail, the scrubby area near the crew boat storage area often yields great birds. The forest edge on the eastern side of the driving range has been very productive at times, yielding Mourning Warbler, Lincoln's Sparrow, Black-billed Cuckoo and many other warbler and flycatcher species. The trail runs to the outlet of Sugarland Run which separates it from another hotspot: Algonkian Nature Preserve--Sanctuary Trail – there is no connection from this path. The forest at the end of the trail is often busy during migration. Wood Ducks, grebes and mergansers are commonly found where the creek joins the river. Occasionally low water will allow some minor mud/rock flats to form and shorebirds may work them.
The golf course
The edges of the golf course can provide a lot of good habitat –Rusty Blackbirds like the section near the entrance gate just as you enter the park. Prothonotary Warbler can often be found near the wet pools along the road. Red-shouldered Hawks and Barred Owls have generally been common along the edges, particularly on the eastern parts of the course. Purple Martin boxes are found near the club house and are generally pretty active.
Accessibility: There are several parking areas throughout the park – no fee to park, but it can be crowded on weekends. Occasionally the park hosts special events, so be on the lookout for cross country meets, running races, crew competitions and other community celebrations. Bathrooms are near the picnic pavilions on the west side of park.
Owner/Manager: Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority
eBird Hotspot: Algonkian Regional Park
—Bryan Henson, March 2021