Spring is an ideal time to spot bird species that even the most devout birdwatcher hasn’t seen before. Mass spring migrations give birders ample opportunity to observe their favorite birds. During this time, males boast vibrant colors in the pursuit of finding mates.
Many state parks boast trails and forests that offer the opportunity for birdwatching. Below are six places for great birding and camping in the U.S.
1. Indian River Marina, Delaware
At Indian River Marina you’ll find a natural setting with miles and miles of ocean shoreline as well as the shore of the bay for additional exploring. Indian River inlet’s north shore has cottages to rent for your stay if you so desire. Premium birding is available. The list of birds you’ll see is long but some are Blue Grosbeak, Spotted Sandpiper, Eastern Towhee, Palm Warbler, and Eastern Meadowlark. When you aren’t birdwatching, take time for paddling, hiking, and deep-sea fishing. This park has it all, and is a premium spot for a spring vacation.
2. Chena River State Recreation Area, Alaska
The quarter-million acres of this state recreation area have rolling hills, forests, and rivers that bring people from all over to this region to have fun in the spring weather. Birdwatching is a perfect pastime for visitors. Songbirds, waterfowl, woodpeckers, and raptors such as great horned owls are abundant. There are favorite trails to best view the many types of birds that live here. One is the Angel Rocks Trail where you can take a 3.6-mile loop by a lake. Another is the Chena River Nature Trail which is a moderate hike of 2.6 miles. Other activities that will keep you busy during your visit are berry picking, biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
3. Elk Knob State Park, North Carolina
This state park is a popular backcountry camping experience. You can get away from it all in this remote area and experience some breathtaking views. One of the campgrounds is within a hollow and surrounded by Elk Knob and Snake Mountain as well as the area known as The Peak.
The special thing about visiting here is that this park is home to the Golden-winged Warbler, a rare bird who comes to North Carolina to breed. There are only about 1,000 birds left and this state park is about the only place you will be able to see one, as most of them stay hidden on private property. Besides adding an incredible bird to your bird list, you can find wonderful hiking trails and trout fishing here.
Recommended: Wildlife Appreciation in State Parks
4. Hamlin Beach State Park, New York
Hamlin Beach State Park encompasses slopes on the south shore of Lake Ontario, west of Rochester. This topography makes it a premier location for migrating waterfowl and gulls during the spring. Tens – and sometimes hundreds – of thousands have been recorded flying through here during migration. Annual migration including Greater Scaup, Black Scoters, Red-breasted Mergansers, Red-throated Loons, Common Loons, and Bonaparte’s Gulls. The park itself boasts crystal-clear water, sandy beaches and 264 tent and trailer campsites.
5. Cross Timbers State Park, Kansas
Nature lovers come to Cross Timbers State Park to experience the outdoors and plenty of fun activities. There are 15 miles of trails that take you along the Toronto Reservoir. This includes an interpretive trail that is fun for the whole family. The Blue Water Trail is an excellent trail for paddlers. This is the first aquatic interpretive trail in Kansas.
This state park is ideal for a spring visit, with plenty of songbirds, bald eagles, plovers, sandpipers, and other interesting birds living here. The Toronto Wildlife Area sits adjacent to the park where you may catch glimpses of quail, raccoon, and white-tailed deer. The park offers over 170 campsites, many that have full RV hookups as well 96 primitive camping sites. There are also three cabins available. Whichever method of camping you choose, Cross Timbers State Park is sure to please for your spring adventures.
6. Grayson Lake State Park, Kentucky
Grayson Lake State Park not only lets you experience boating and canoeing, but around the lake you will find an 18-hole golf course that will give you some exciting challenges. The sandstone canyon walls provide some especially fascinating views for visitors. In the spring, birding is excellent. Find prairie warblers, cerulean warblers, and blue-winged warblers. It is not uncommon to see an American Bald Eagle perched at the top of a tree or hill.
Hiking is great, with several trails that take you around the park. The Beech-Hemlock Forest Trail will take you around the campground and along the shore of the lake. The Lick Falls loop trail is a 3-mile trail to try. Other activities that the whole family will enjoy are picnicking, and fishing for bluegill, crappie, and catfish. The mountain air is refreshing and gives you the opportunity to clear your head and satisfy your ‘get-away-from-it-all’ desires.
Are you ready for your adventure? Plan your camping trip!
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.