VIRGINIA BEACH — Owl Creek Landing celebrated its official ribbon-cutting on Sept. 18, joining the Adventure Park and Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach.
Described as the first of its kind in the United States, Owl Creek Landing features the first spiral tower with the longest steel slide in America — The Whorl — an expansive canopy walk, a children’s treehouse playground and a forest path spread out over 38 acres.
The Virginia Beach Observation Tower is fully ADA-accessible, and parts of the canopy walk are ADA accessible, as well.
“When we’ve seen kids come here, even with their parents, we see very few phones coming out of their pockets, so that is a huge accomplishment as far as we’re concerned because it means that they’re enjoying the space and they’re able to actually use the area as we had predicted,” said Bahman Azarm, Founder and CEO of Outdoor Venture Group, the parent company for Owl Creek Landing.
After the ribbon cutting, guests were invited to enjoy the pathways, the observation tower and the slide.
Hours of operation vary for the park based on the time of year. To learn more about the park, as well as tickets and pricing, visit its official website.
What future improvements are planned for Owl Creek Landing and the surrounding area?
Table of Contents
- 1. What future improvements are planned for Owl Creek Landing and the surrounding area?
- 2. Discover Owl Creek Landing: Virginia Beach’s New Outdoor Adventure Spot Opens to the Public
- 3. What is Owl Creek Landing?
- 4. Activities & Amenities at Owl Creek Landing
- 5. Getting There & park details
- 6. The Ecological Significance of Owl Creek
- 7. Benefits of Visiting Owl Creek Landing
- 8. Practical Tips for Your Visit
- 9. Recent Developments & Future Plans
Discover Owl Creek Landing: Virginia Beach’s New Outdoor Adventure Spot Opens to the Public
What is Owl Creek Landing?
Owl Creek Landing, Virginia Beach’s newest public access point for outdoor recreation, officially opened its doors in early September 2025. Situated on 108 acres along the serene Owl Creek, this expansive park offers a diverse range of activities for nature enthusiasts, kayakers, hikers, and families.The project, a collaboration between the City of Virginia Beach and various conservation partners, aims to provide enhanced public access to the natural beauty of the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge watershed.This new park is a significant addition to Virginia Beach’s growing network of outdoor spaces, catering to both residents and tourists seeking adventure and tranquility.
Activities & Amenities at Owl Creek Landing
Owl Creek Landing isn’t just a pretty face; it’s packed with features designed to maximize your outdoor experience. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
* Kayaking & Paddleboarding: A dedicated launch facility provides easy access to Owl creek, perfect for exploring the calm waters and observing local wildlife.Kayak and paddleboard rentals are planned to be available on-site in the near future through a partnership with a local outfitter.
* Hiking & Walking Trails: Over 3 miles of trails wind through diverse habitats,including maritime forests,wetlands,and open meadows. Trails are designed for varying skill levels, from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes. Expect to encounter interpretive signage detailing the local flora and fauna.
* Fishing: Owl Creek is known for its abundance of fish, including striped bass, flounder, and speckled trout. A fishing pier provides convenient access for anglers of all ages. A valid Virginia fishing licence is required.
* Wildlife Observation: The park is a prime location for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.Keep an eye out for migratory birds, waterfowl, and other native species. Binoculars are highly recommended!
* Picnic Areas: Several designated picnic areas with tables and grills offer the perfect spot for a relaxing lunch amidst nature.
* Educational Opportunities: Planned programs and guided tours will focus on the ecology of the area, conservation efforts, and the history of Owl Creek.
Getting There & park details
Owl creek Landing is located at 1205 North Landing Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23455.
* parking: Ample parking is available, including designated spaces for vehicles with trailers.
* Hours: The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
* Accessibility: Trails are designed with accessibility in mind, with some sections offering paved surfaces suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
* Restrooms: Restroom facilities are available on-site.
* Pet Policy: Leashed pets are permitted on the trails. Please be responsible and clean up after your pet.
The Ecological Significance of Owl Creek
Owl Creek isn’t just a recreational resource; it’s a vital part of the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge watershed. The creek and surrounding wetlands play a crucial role in:
* Water Quality: Wetlands act as natural filters, removing pollutants and improving water quality.
* Flood Control: Wetlands absorb excess rainfall, reducing the risk of flooding.
* habitat Provision: Owl Creek provides essential habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species, including several threatened and endangered species.
* Erosion Control: Vegetation along the creek banks helps to stabilize the shoreline and prevent erosion.
The growth of Owl Creek Landing incorporated sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact and protect the delicate ecosystem. These include using permeable paving materials, preserving existing vegetation, and implementing erosion control measures.
Benefits of Visiting Owl Creek Landing
Beyond the obvious recreational opportunities, a visit to Owl Creek Landing offers a wealth of benefits:
* Improved Physical Health: Hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities promote physical fitness and well-being.
* Reduced Stress: Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health.
* Connection with Nature: Owl Creek Landing provides a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world and appreciate the beauty of Virginia’s coastal ecosystem.
* Educational Value: Learning about the local ecology and conservation efforts can foster a greater gratitude for the habitat.
* Community Building: The park serves as a gathering place for families,friends,and community groups.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
* Check the Weather: Virginia Beach weather can be unpredictable.Be sure to check the forecast before you go and dress accordingly.
* Bring Water & Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized,especially if you plan on hiking or kayaking.
* Wear Sunscreen & Insect Repellent: Protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes.
* bring Binoculars: Enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
* Respect the Environment: Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
* Check for Program Schedules: Visit the City of Virginia beach Parks and Recreation website for information on upcoming programs and events at Owl creek Landing. [Link to VB Parks & Rec Website – Placeholder]
Recent Developments & Future Plans
The opening of Owl Creek Landing marks the first phase of a larger plan to enhance public access to the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge watershed. future plans include:
* Expansion of Trail Network: Additional trails are planned to connect Owl Creek Landing to other parks and natural areas in the region.
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