This hot spot has different birding options. First, you can simply drive-and-stop (and bird) along Henricus Park road. There are several places to pull over, with viewing platforms against the marsh. When the road is quiet (often), you can also pull over on the shoulder anywhere along here, to quickly look out at the marsh. The last pullout before you reach the historical park also offers a nice boardwalk over the marsh.

From the parking lot at the Historical Park, you can choose from two trails, described below.

Waterfowl abound here in the winter. Wilson's Snipes and some rail species have been found here. Ospreys are here in the summer, and Bald Eagles year-round. The habitat also attracts migrating birds.

This hot spot represents two adjoining properties: the Henricus Historical Park, and the Dutch Gap Conservation Area.

The Dutch Gap area involves several different organizations with different purposes. These include Chesterfield County, the Henricus Foundation, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, and the Dominion Energy corporation.

Despite the significant environmental impacts of the surrounding industrial developments (particularly the adjoining property of Dominion Energy), Dutch Gap is one of the premier birding hot spots in southeastern Virginia. It is a perennial favorite of local and regional birders.

The River Bluff trail leads east from the parking lot, past the historical buildings, to the river. Heading southwest from the visitor center, the Dutch Gap trail leads to marshes and (optionally) a roughly two-mile clockwise loop, connecting with Henricus Park Road. (See maps.)