Fran Uhler Natural Area is located along the Patuxent River between Bowie State University and the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center and features five miles of woodland trails open for hiking, bicycling, and nature study. This is a popular area for local bird watching groups.
According to local bird groups, over 160 species have been reported here. Spring migration can be very good, especially along the gravel lane in Fran Uhler, and also on the foot trails to the wetland areas. Both American Woodcock and sometimes even Whip-poor-wills can be heard in spring. Fall migration can be active or quiet – it’s hard to predict. Breeding birds include Wood Duck, Wild Turkey, Barred Owl, Brown Creeper (some years), and Prairie Warbler.
The park is also a great area for trainspotting as you walk the trail adjacent to the MARC railroad track. The Fran Uhler Natural Area and Uhler NRMA are linked to the main part of the WB&A Trail by the 2-mile-long Horsepen Branch Spur Trail.
Park at the Bowie State MARC train station Park and Ride off Lemon Bridge Road. Please use ONLY this lot for parking. All on campus parking at Bowie State University (including VISITOR) is BY PERMIT ONLY and is enforced.
The main trail of this park has a surface of old pavement and gravel, it is flat, but it can be muddy most of the year. There isn't much shade along the trail and can be quite buggy too. It runs parallel to the railroad tracks which for much of the park has no barrier PLEASE STAY AWAY FROM THE TRACKS USE ONLY THE TRAILS. Park is open from dawn to dusk only. Dogs are allowed on leash. Please obey all park rules posted at the park entry.
Please place the cache back carefully as found.
Happy Caching!
Cache has been approved by the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George's County