Holistic Birding
Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge – Liberty Marsh & Liberty Loop Trail (Oil City Road Entrance)
Overview
Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge stretches along the Wallkill River from Sussex and Vernon, New Jersey, into Pine Island, New York.
The refuge was established to conserve and enhance wildlife populations and their habitats, protect water quality, and provide opportunities for wildlife-dependent recreation, education, and research. It protects the remarkable biological diversity of the Wallkill Valley, with a special emphasis on forest birds, grassland birds, migrating waterfowl, wintering raptors, and other species.
Liberty Marsh is part of a larger network of birding hotspots within the refuge, including Owens Station Road and the Winding Waters Trail. Some are in NY and some are in NJ. Be sure to check eBird for other incredible spots to visit at the refuge!
Please note: Part of the Liberty Loop lies in New Jersey, while another section crosses into New York. If you keep separate eBird lists by state, remember to end your checklist when crossing the state line and begin a new one in the other state.
With 252 bird species documented, Liberty Loop is an excellent introduction to the Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge and is well worth a visit on its own.
The trail loops around several managed wetland units that attract an impressive variety of waterbirds, including ducks, geese, shorebirds, and wading birds. During spring and fall migration, as well as the breeding season, the surrounding woodlands, shrubs, and edges can be alive with songbirds. Winter brings opportunities to observe hawks, owls, and other seasonal specialties.
My favorite times to visit are during migration and winter. Scan the marshes carefully and listen closely—you may even be rewarded with the distinctive call of an American Bittern-or if you’re really lucky-see the bird!
Visitor Information
Facilities
-
Restrooms are available a short drive away at Owens Station Road.
Parking/Fees
-
There is a small parking area.
Accessibility
-
Trails are primarily flat.
-
For current information, visit the USFWS website.
