Lake Frederick

Virginia · Southeast

ModerateView on eBird Directions

Habitat

Lake

Best Seasons

Spring Fall Winter

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Lake Frederick is a productive birding destination in Virginia, with 213 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Hooded Merganser, and Ring-billed Gull among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Canada Goose Hooded Merganser Ring-billed Gull American Crow Wood Duck

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Swainson's Warbler

Limnothlypis swainsonii

7/20/2026Shenandoah NP--Fox Hollow Trail2 observed

Bobolink

Dolichonyx oryzivorus

7/15/20261658–1684 Rokeby Rd, Upperville US-VA 38.96743, -77.8560615 observed

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Nyctanassa violacea

7/14/2026Abrams Creek Wetlands Preserve (City of Winchester)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

157/13/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

17/13/2026

Eastern Kingbird

37/13/2026

Blue Jay

17/13/2026

Purple Martin

27/13/2026

American Robin

37/13/2026

Northern Cardinal

17/13/2026

Birding Tips

1
Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.
2
Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.
3
Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in Virginia

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

Virginia's iconic barrier island refuge with 320+ species, wild ponies, and Atlantic Flyway migrants.

Huntley Meadows Park

DC area's premier wetland with boardwalk access to nesting herons, rails, and diverse marsh birds.

Great Falls Park

Potomac gorge park with breeding Cerulean Warblers, dramatic river views, and rich spring migration.

Virginia Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in Virginia →

Birding Guides

Fall Bird Migration Guide

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Lake Frederick for birding?▼

The best months to visit Lake Frederick for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.

What birds can I see at Lake Frederick?▼

Notable species at Lake Frederick include Canada Goose, Hooded Merganser, Ring-billed Gull, American Crow, Wood Duck. The area supports lake habitats.

How difficult is birding at Lake Frederick?▼

Birding at Lake Frederick is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Lake Frederick?▼

Lake Frederick offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.