Holistic Birding
Harriman SP - St. John's Road
Overview
St. John’s Church in the Wilderness was founded in 1880 as a small country church serving the surrounding communities. When Harriman State Park was established in 1910, the church remained as the only privately owned property within the park because of its historic cemetery.
Why Bird Here
Recently designated as an eBird hotspot, St. John’s Road can be exceptionally productive during migration and the breeding season. Nesting Ovenbirds, Hooded Warblers, Veeries, and many other forest birds can be found here. The mix of mature forest, roadside edge, and the open area behind the church provides a variety of habitats that attract a diverse array of species. The entire length of the road can be birded, and the open area behind the church is well worth exploring (not when the church is holding services).
Be sure to check out the large snag behind the church—it’s a favorite perch for fledgling Common Ravens in summer, who often make their presence known by raising quite a ruckus!
Visitor Information
Facilities
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No restrooms. When open, nearby Lake Welch has facilities.
Accessibility
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The road has little to no shoulder, so birders should use caution when walking along the roadside, especially because car occasionally pass through at high rates of speed.
Parking
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To bird St. John’s Road, park in the small hikers’ lot.
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Please do not park in the church parking lot or nearby driveways.
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Because the church, cemetery, former caretaker’s cottage, and surrounding grounds remain in active use, please be respectful of services, visitors, and those paying their respects in the cemetery.
