The plus (+) sign on the left of each county line expands to a list of areas in the county. Click on a location name to get more details. eBird hotspots give you access to recent sightings and a bar chart for the area. Additionally you may click on the links for the county name in the table to download a PDF list of places in the county including GPS coordinates and directions or a county checklist of birds recorded there.
Cedar banks along this road may hold Townsend's Solitaire in winter.
From the town of McGregor, take Highway 76 north along the river about 5 miles.
4.5 miles NE of Waukon on Hwy 9,3 miles N on Creek Rd.
- in eastern Allamakee Co. on the Mississippi River. Follow X-52 (Great River Road) about eight miles north out of Harper’s Ferry to Lafayette Ridge Dr. Go east toward the river on Lafayette Ridge for more than 1.5 miles including a curve south. Then continue on Heytman Dr. to the boat ramp, again more than 1.5 miles.
A-26 begins west off Hwy. 26 about two miles from the Minnesota border in the extreme northeast corner of the county. In winter, Golden Eagles are possible in flight along the bluffs to the north for most of the length of A-26, as far west as Hwy. 76, or 13.5 miles.
7 miles N of Waukon on Hwy 76, 6 miles NW on Iverson Rd.
Township. The Solitaire is on Cedar Hill Road.
trees except cedars and this cedar bank comes right down to the road.
North of Harper’s Ferry in Allamakee Co. About 2.5 miles north of Harper’s Ferry along X-52/Great River Rd. turn right, as X-52 curves left, onto Red Oak Rd. Quickly turn right again onto an access road, and follow this about 3/4 mile to a parking area. Tundra Swans - follow Red Oak Rd. (above) upriver about 1.5 miles, and look for a cove where the swans gather.
North of Harper’s Ferry in Allamakee Co. About 2.5 miles north of Harper’s Ferry along X-52/Great River Rd. turn right, as X-52 curves left, onto Red Oak Rd. Follow the narrow Red Oak Rd. upriver about 1.5 miles, and look for a cove where the swans gather.
In northwest Appanoose Co. One half mile north of the dam, or 0.2 miles south of the marina, on the west side of J5T, turn onto Crappie Circle, which leads to three campgrounds.
A quarter mile West of 300th Ave on 590th St about 50 yards North of the road into the marsh. A map can be found on Iowabirds.org.
At the dam at Lake Rathbun in northwest Appanoose Co. At the south end of the dam (J5T), at the lake’s east end, take Island View Pl., where the Corps of Engineers Information Center is. The first road to the right is Indigo Circle, at the end of which is Dedication Point.
At Lake Rathbun in northwest Appanoose Co. At the south end of the dam (J5T), at the lake’s east end, take Island View Place where the Corps of Engineers Information Center is. Follow this winding road about two miles to the campground entrance. The best lake viewing is at the farthest reach of Ivory Circle, near campsites D-27, D-28.
In the southeast part of the county. On the west side of 300 Ave. between 590th and 600th St.
In northwest Appanoose Co. For viewing above the dam, follow Island View Pl. off J5T, at the south end of the dam, where the Corps of Engineers Information Center is. Take the first road to the right, Indigo Circle, to its end at Dedication Point. Also, continue on Island View Place as it curves west, north, and west again, and look for Intaglio Place on your right. Follow Intaglio to the boat ramp at its end. At the north end of the dam, viewing is from the beach area.
In northwest Appanoose Co., on the southwest side of the lake. About one mile from the south end of the dam, J5T straightens out going west. Proceed west 4.5 miles from here to 150th Ave., and follow 150th north a little more than three miles to its end at a field. Walk the path going left (west) to the water. Or, to the right, follow the road through the field and then walk to the water.
DEAN POOL (#7): Take Hwy. 202 south out of Moulton two miles to 570th on your right, as 202 curves left. Take 570th two miles west to 300th, and go south on 300th two miles to 590th. Follow 590th west a half mile to the pool. TO BUCKSHOT LAKE (#4): Return east to 300th, and north two miles to 570th. Turn west and Buckshot Lake is soon along here, on the south side. TO SEDAN POOL (#2): Continue on 570th, which now turns north and becomes 290th, about 1.5 miles to 555th. This includes two jogs left along the way, the first one fairly quickly, the second one a mile after this, at 296th--which you do NOT take. Soon after this second jog left, again going north, get onto 555th going west (left). Short of a mile west on 555th, take the diagonal southwest road on your left, 285th. Follow this 1.5 miles to the unmarked, cement parking area on your left, at a bend. The pool is seen out at the treeline; it can be approached on foot.
The address is 5718 20th Ave Drive, Vinton. It is located North West of Vinton and just West of Rodger's Lake. From Vinton go 2 miles West on US-218N. Turn North on 20th Ave Dr. Go 1.5 miles and the conservation center is on the right.
In northern Benton Co. From I-380 exit no. 41 at Urbana, take Hwy. 150 west and then south almost ten miles to the entrance on your right (west). Alternately, out of Vinton, take Hwy. 150 north less than two miles to the entrance on your left. Soon into the entrance, around a leftward bend, come to a boat launch and dike. The usual woods walk is to head straight west over the dike. Another long walk begins at the end of the entrance road, at its south end, and skirts the area beginning west and continuing northwest. The beginning of this walk is sometimes shallowly flooded.
From I-380 exit no. 41 at Urbana, take Hwy. 150 west about 8.5 miles, including a turn south, past the airport to 55th St. Dr. (not 55th St. itself). Follow 55th St. Dr. west (right) just under two miles, including a turn south, to a typical DNR posts-and-cable vehicle entrance on your right. Alternately, out of Vinton, take Hwy. 150 north three miles to 55th St. Dr., and then as above.
This is well signed and the drive South of Blairstown is nice and has good habitat. The address is 1949 Benton Iowa Rd, Blairstown. Take V-56 South of Blairstown for 1mile. Turn right on 78th Street for 0.5 miles. Turn left on 20th Ave for 2.3 miles. Then turn right on Benton Iowa Road for 0.5 miles. The park is on your right.
The park address is 5901 27th Ave, Vinton. The access road to the park is low and prone to flooding. I would not plan a visit after a heavy rain or when lowland flooding is present. Just on the South edge of Vinton go East on E-24 2.2 miles. Turn left onto 27th Ave. 27th Ave dead ends in the park.
The address is 5621 24th Ave Drive, Vinton, Iowa. From Vinton, drive North on Hwy 150 4 miles. Turn left onto 24th Ave Drive and go 2.5 miles. Turn left into the park.
This park is well signed. It is Northwest of Vinton. From Vinton go West 2 miles on US-218N. Turn right onto 20th Ave Drive. Go 1.5 miles and turn right onto 57th Street Trail. The entrance to the park is well marked on your left.
Alice Wyth Lake, George Wyth S.P.
In Waterloo, Black Hawk Co. The park is along U.S. 218 just east of its meeting with Hwy. 58, on the north edge of the Cedar Falls-Waterloo area. U.S. 218 is well-marked for finding the park. Once in the park, turn left and follow the road as it skirts the first lake (George Wyth) and continue as far west as possible including eventually a sharp curve leftward, taking you back east. During this curve, look for the sign to Alice Wyth lake on your right. Follow that road to its end.
just northwest of Cedar Falls in Blackhawk Co. The wetland is at the intersection of T-75 and C-67, both seen on the state highway map.
Fisher Lake, George Wyth S.P.
In Waterloo, Black Hawk Co. The park is along U.S. 218 just east of its meeting with Hwy. 58, on the north edge of the Cedar Falls-Waterloo area. U.S. 218 is well-marked for finding the park. Once in the park, turn left and follow the road as it skirts the first lake and continue west until you are paralleling the long, narrow Fisher Lake on your left. There are several parking areas here. Continue west, eventually following a sharp curve leftward, taking you back east. This affords more viewing of Fisher Lake.
In Waterloo, Black Hawk Co. The park is along U.S. 218 just east of its meeting with Hwy. 58, on the north edge of the Cedar Falls-Waterloo area. U.S. 218 is well-marked for finding the park. Once in the park, turn left and follow the road as it skirts the first lake and continue as far west as possible including eventually a sharp curve leftward, taking you back east. Follow this road to its end at the shelter. Next walk the trail through the birdfeeder area, which is just beyond the shelter from its left side. Take a short left at the crosspath you come to and then a right at the next crosspath, and begin to look for cedars on the left side, some closer, some farther in. The owls have traditionally been in one of these groups along the trail.
In Waterloo, Black Hawk Co. The park is along U.S. 218 just east of its meeting with Hwy. 58, on the north edge of the Cedar Falls-Waterloo area. U.S. 218 is well-marked for finding the park. See separate entries for Alice Wyth Lake, Fisher Lake, George Wyth Lake, and "George Wyth S.P., Northern Saw-whet Owl."
In Waterloo, Black Hawk Co. The park is along U.S. 218 just east of its meeting with Hwy. 58, on the north edge of the Cedar Falls-Waterloo area. U.S. 218 is well-marked for finding the park. Upon entering, George Wyth is the first lake in front of you. The road left, which skirts the lake, leads to more viewing spots.
In the city of Cedar Falls: Take Rainbow Dr. to Edwards Ave. and turn north. At the intersection with Greenwood Ave, turn east. At the intersection with Reserve Dr, turn north again, and you are at the park.
In Cedar Falls, off University Ave.
This pond in Boone County is one mile south of Bjorkboda Marsh (which is actually in Hamilton County), on the east side of S Avenue. Please see Bjorkboda Marsh directions in the gazateer.
From Highway 30, exit at Highway 17. Area is just north of that intersection on the west side of Highway 17.
This area is located just SE of Ogden along US Highway 30. Turn south on I Ave to traverse the east side of the main tract. Also accessible from US Highway 169 on the west side, south of intersection with US 30 st south edge of Ogden.
Must walk or bike to and from the high trestle from Madrid, 2 miles to the east, or from Woodward, 2.5 miles to the west. Also accessible from parking lot on country graveled road one mile east of the trestle.
From junction of US 30 & US 169 at Ogden, take Boone Co. Hwy P70 north 5.5 mi. and turn right (east) on Co. Hwy. E26. Drive 3 mi. and turn left (north) on Kale Ave. Go 1/4 mi. on Kales, then turn left (west) on 168th Ave. Follow this often muddy and poorly maintained access road to forest gate. Parking space limited to 2 vehicles.
From Highway 17, go west on Highway E52 three miles to park entrance. Or, from this entrance, turn south on P Avenue, staying on the paved road to a south entrance. Also accessible via a North entrance: take County Highway R28 south 4 miles, from junction with US Highway 30 at the south edge of city of Boone.
for 1.0 mile; continue onto IA-150 N/Jamestown Ave and travel 1.1 mi; turn left onto Otterville Blvd and drive 3.2 mi; turn right onto Oak St N and go 0.2 mi; continue onto Henley Ave for 1.7 mi; Turn right and you have arrived.
From Aurora in Buchanan County, head south toward Warren St; turn left at the 1st cross street onto Warren St; turn right onto Slater Ave/Union St and continue to follow Slater Ave for 2.1 miles; turn right onto 136th St for 0.4 mile; continue onto Roberts Ave to the park.
Just south of the town of Peterson: Take US 71 south out of Spencer for about 15 miles until you reach the intersection with State Highway 10. Turn west on 10 and go about 10 miles into Peterson. Continue west through Peterson about a mile to 110th Ave. Turn south on 110th and go another mile to South River Road. This road will travel east and then south for about 4 miles to the park.
Pickerel Lake lies in the extreme northeast corner of Buena Vista county, actually touching Clay county to the North and Pocahontas county to the east.
From US 71 (which bisects Buena Vista county North-to-South) in Sioux Rapids, take County Road C13 east about 11 ½ miles.
In southern Butler Co. Go north on Hwy. 14 out of Parkersburg about five miles to C-51. Take C-51 west three miles to Jay Ave., then north on Jay one mile to 260th St. Follow 260th east into the marsh area. At the east end of 260th, where it turns left, there are dike walks straight ahead (east) and to the right (south). There is also parking for the north-south dike walk off of C-51, just east of the HQ building, 1.5 miles either way from Jay Ave. or from Hwy. 14. SHORT-EARED OWL FIELDS: Drive one mile north on Jay from 260th and where 260th turns right, instead take the B-maintenance road, which starts zig-zagging west and north. When it straightens out and becomes 245th, the DNR parking lot is about one mile west. There are fields the whole length of the B-maintenance road; all those to the south are public, up to roughly across from the parking area; about the first half mile on the north side, going west, is private--generally, look for DNR signs.
From the city of Fort Dodge: Take Highway 20 westbound, and go through Rockwell City. Just west of Rockwell City is Highway 4. Turn north on Highway 4. Continue north until you reach 230th St. Turn east on 230th, and you will be there.
Go 7 miles north of Glidden on N41 and turn east onto Treasure Rd. and go about 1/2 mile east. Treasure Rd is the 1st gravel past the Raccoon River Bridge. When you see the ponds on the north side of road, the BBWD was on the 2nd pond north of the road. There is an opening in the fence here and a deer trail to follow to the north and east (about a 2 minute walk).
Just north on Main St/White Pole Rd outside of Anita.
- in northeastern Cass Co. Less than a mile south on Hwy. 148 out of Anita, look for the park entrance on the west side.
On the northwest edge of Atlantic in Cass Co.. The quarry is on the north side of Hwy. 83/2nd St., just west outside of town.
In Cerro Gordo Co., just south of Clear Lake (the lake itself). Near Ventura, take S-14/Balsam Ave. about three miles south from U.S. 18 to 220th St. Go two miles east on 220th where the marsh is at Dogwood Ave.
On the western half of the south shore of Clear Lake. Along B-35, 1.5 miles east of Balsam Ave., or 1/2 mile west of Dogwood Ave., take Cedar Ave. about 1/3 mile to the access at the lake. Walking the shore, Farmer's Beach is about 1/4 mile west, and Lone Tree Pt. another 1/4 mile beyond this.
The sandbar extends into Clear Lake from McIntosh Woods S.P.
The eastern half of Clear Lake is surrounded by the city of Clear Lake, in western Cerro Gordo County. At the western edge sits the city of Ventura.
- at the north edge of Mason City in Cerro Gordo Co. Take U.S. 65 north and look for signs to the park on the east.
At the Lime Creek Conservation Area on the north side of Mason City. Take U.S. 65 north.
In the northwest corner of Cerro Gordo Co. From I-35 take B-20 west 7.5 miles to S-14/Balsam Ave. 1.5 miles north on S-14 turn east on 325th St. to the marsh parking area shortly on your left.
- on the western north shore of Clear Lake in Cerro Gordo Co. A little more than five miles west along U.S. 18 from I-35, take Cardinal Ave. south one half mile to Lake St. and look for the sign to the area.
From the city of Clear Lake, take North Shore Drive west about 3 miles.
In Mason City, Cerro Gordo Co. One half mile north of U.S. 18 along U.S. 65, go west on 1st St. NW just past the railroad yard to Jackson Ave. and the park.
In Cerro Gordo Co. east of Mason City. Take Hwy. 122 east about 2.5 miles past the edge of Mason City to Warbler, the next road after Vine. Take Warbler 2.5 miles north to 290th and look for the parking area.
Just north outside Mason City in Cerro Gordo Co. Follow U.S. 65 north out of town, and past Lime Creek Conservation Area look for B-20/300th St. to the right (east). Go east on B-20 and quickly come to Spring Park on your right.
In the northwest corner of Cerro Gordo Co., 5.5 miles west of I-35 along B-20.
At the far west end of Clear Lake. Viewing is from S-14/Main St., one half mile south of U.S. 18 at Ventura.
just southeast of Mason City in Cerro Gordo Co. Birch Dr. is two miles east of U.S. 65 along Hwy. 122 out of Mason City, on the south side of the road.
In central Cerro Gordo Co. Two miles south of U.S. 18, take the B-43 exit off I-35 and go two miles west to Hwy. 107. Go south one mile on 107 to 200th St., and west on 200th one mile to the slough, past Heather Ave.
- in central Cherokee Co., just west of Cherokee on C-38 (Main St. in town).
On north side of city of Nashua.
240th street (B54) and Hickory.
South west of Lost Island Lake. From the town of Spencer, take US Highway 18 east to County Rd 18. Turn north on N18 about 2 miles, and the slough was on the west side.
in southern Clay Co. From the intersection of U.S. 71 and Hwy. 10, just north of the Buena Vista. Co. border, take 500th east a little under three miles to the parking area.
- in northeastern Clay Co. Two miles east of Dickens along U.S. 18, take N-14 north six miles to B-17. Go west 1.5 miles on B-17 to the slough.
In northeastern Clay Co. About half a mile west of Ruthven (Palo Alto Co.) along U.S. 18, take N-18 north 4.5 miles into the complex.
In northeastern Clay Co. Four miles north on N-18 from U.S. 18, Smith's Slough is on the west side. An access road going west off N-18, just north of Mud Lake to the east, skirts the north and west sides of the slough.
- in northeastern Clay Co. 3.5 miles west along U.S. 18 out of Ruthven, take N-14 about four miles north to 310th. Follow 310th east (right) more than one half mile to a T-intersection at the lake. The road here parallels the lake shore in either direction about one half mile.
At Mississippi River Pool No. 13 in Clinton Co. The entrance road to the park is north 5-6 miles along U.S. 67 from Hwy. 136 in Clinton, on the east side.
- just west outside the town of Goose Lake in northern Clinton Co. Two miles west of town, go north on 350th less than one half mile to the entrance road on your right, and walk the dike which bisects the lake.
Just north of Clinton in Clinton Co. On the Illinois side, look for the entrance road to Lock and Dam No. 13 about three miles north of Fulton along Ill. Hwy. 84. Viewing for below the dam will be obvious. It is also very easy to scope above the dam from a second parking area there.
From Dexter, 1.5 miles north on Del Rio Road (east edge of Dexter).
Go north from Redfield on County Road P46 for ½ mile to the junction with Linden Road. Turn west (left) on Linden Road and proceed west for 2 miles to the junction with Cadet Ct. (This is a “Y” intersection with the left leg of the “Y” being Cadet Ct.). Follow Cadet Ct. the short distance to the parking lot which is at the end of the road on the right.
Just south of Granger in northeast Dallas Co. At the south edge of Granger, take Xavier Rd. about two miles south from Hwy. 141, past 200th St., to the water on both sides of the road. The west side is usually more productive.
Travel west from Minburn on County Road F31 and cross the North Raccoon River. The first intersection west of the river is with Lexington Road. Turn south (left) on Lexington Road and proceed about one mile to the entry sign.
From Highway 5 in southwest Des Moines, take the exit to Maffitt Lake Road and proceed west 1.5 miles to the reservoir and park.
From Adel, go west on County Road F60, about three miles to the junction with Panther Creek Road. Turn south on Panther Creek Road and proceed to a “T” intersection. Turn left at this intersection to stay on Panther Creek Road. After the left turn, the road will go east for about ¼ mile and then it bends back to the right. Watch for the entrance to the area which will be on the west (right) side of the road, just before the road bends to the east.
SE of Dallas Center. On the east side of S Avenue just south of 260th Street. The property is bisected by the Raccoon River Valley bike trail.
The park is located in the southwest part of the town of Redfield.
On the west side of Xavier Ave. across from Brenton Slough. This is just to the south and west of Granger. From Highway 141, turn left on Xavier and proceed about 1.5 miles to a bridge that crosses Beaver Creek. Brenton Slough is on the east side and Ingersoll Slough is on the west side.
From I-80, take the Earlham exit (Exit 104) and proceed north to I Ave. Stay northbound for just over a mile to a four-way stop intersection. Turn west (left) onto Bear Creek Rd. Follow Bear Creek Rd. for 1/2 mile. The road will turn north, and become Houston Trail. Houston Trail dead-ends at the park.
Coming from County Rd. F60, between Adel and Redfield, turn south on H Ave., about 5 1/2 miles west of Adel (or two miles east of Redfield). Proceed on H Ave. for about four miles to the junction with Bear Creek Rd. Turn east (left) onto Bear Creek Rd. and proceed 1/2 mile to junction with Houston Trail. This is a "T" intersection. Turn north (left) at the "T" and go about 1 3/4 mile to the park.
From highway 44, go north on R30 one mile and turn left (west) on 230th 1/4 mile.. The wetland is on the north side of the road.
From Linden (southwest Dallas County), go 1/2 mile east on Highway F51 to Beaumont Avenue, then south 2 miles to parking lot.
This area is located about two miles southwest of Minburn. It is reached by going west of Minburn on County Road F31. Just west of the North Raccoon River bridge, a driveway on the south side of County Road F31 leads to a parking area.
The wildlife refuge is found on the west side of Lexington Lane near the south end of the public hunting area.
From Woodward, in northeast Dallas County, go one mile east on Highway 210, then south on U Avenue 3/4 mile, then east on 130th Court for 2 miles where County road support ends. The next 2-3 miles follow the Des Moines River to 145th Lane.
From Redfield, in southwest Dallas County, go south on Highway F60 one mile to Delta Circle. Go west 3/4 mile to the area.
From the town of Minburn, take Baker St, to 187th Rd west about 2 miles. The nature area is on the right.
From Eldon, take J12 about 1.5 miles SW; turn left onto J15 and follow it SW about 1.25 miles; turn left on Tulip Ave. and drive S about 1.25 miles; turn left on Venus Tr. and drive SE about 1 mile.
From Bloomfield, take Highway 63 north about 5 miles to the intersection with Highway 273. Turn west on 273 and go about 10 miles to Doe Ave and turn north. The park is about 2 miles to the north on this road.
Located on the North West corner of Lamoni, Take North Mulberry off of West Main three blocks. The road circles the treatment plant, there are areas to pull off and park along this circle.
From Lamoni continue on West Main West out of town(turns into co. hwy J-55). Turn North on Elk Chapel road, go 1 mile to 280thst. turn left or West, in about 1/2 mile the road crosses the lake. You can see most of the water from this road. Just on the west side of the bridge is a small unmarked parking area that is not graveled(if wet, park along the road). There is a mowed trail starting at the gate on the South side of the parking area, this takes you around the lake and through the pine trees. DO NOT USE THIS TRAIL DURING HUNTING SEASON. You can also walk North along the lake to the marshy area but there is no trail.
The best place to bird is on the West end. from I-35 exit 4, go about 2 miles West. This will take you through Lamoni, as you go West out of town there will be a historical site called Liberty Hall. The trail starts from the parking lot. This trail goes around Home Pond and some smaller farm ponds. To start at the East end, from exit 4 turn South beside the Kum-and-go station on to Spruce. Go two blocks to E. second street, turn right or West to the parking lot. this end of the trail follows an abandoned railroad bed.
I-35 south to exit 4 (Lamoni), then turn right (west). Go about 3 miles and turn left on S. Smith St. Go one mile and turn right on gravel road next to golf course. 1/2 mile will be sewer lagoons.
Exit 12 from I-35. Go east on Highway 2 - towards Leon. About 3.25 miles or so, Lakeview Road will be on the left. Lakeview Road takes you along the West side of the lake. There is only one good spot to view the water from this side, and that is at the West end of the dam. The next left, Little River Lake Road, actually goes around to several spots closer to the water, with restrooms, parking and lake access. Taking this road north, the road does a hard right turning into NW 18th st. Follow this for a mile or so and then turn left on 235 th Ave to go the camping and swimming area.
From Lamoni, take Highway 69 east about 4 miles until you get to Dale Miller Road. Turn south and go about 5 miles.
From Interstate 35 take the Lamoni exit and go west to the first turn back north (163rd Ave). Go north to a T-intersection with 160th st. Turn right (east) crossing the Interstate. Once you are across the highway, watch for the first turn back north which will be Slip Bluff Rd. This takes you into the park.
The address is 1282 120th Street, Strawberry Point. The park has more than one entrance, but directions to the main entrance are as follows. From Strawberry Point go South on HWY 3 for 2 miles. Turn right onto W69 (Forestville Rd) and go 4 miles. This becomes 140th Ave. Turn right onto 129th Street and this will take you into the park. From Manchester go North on IA-13 for 6miles. Turn left onto C 64 (150th St) and go 3miles. Turn right onto Firefly Rd and go 1 mile. Turn left onto 129th St and this will take you into the park.
This park is located 3 miles Southeast of Manchester. The address is 2379 Jefferson Road, Manchester. From Manchester, take East Main Street East 0.5miles to X21 (also known as Bailey Dr). Turn right onto X21 for 1 mile. Then follow it to the South and it becomes Jefferson Road. Go 3 miles and Bailey's Ford Park is on your right. The signs to the park are clear.
From Ryan go south on HWY 13 2.5 miles. Turn right and go 4 miles West on 325th St. to 120th St. You will see a poorly maintained parking lot and this gives access to the East side. For access to the West Unit, just North of the intersection of County Rd W63 and 325th St there is a signed but poorly visible entrance to the parking lot on the East side of the highway.
This park is also known as Holbert Park. It is located 2.5 miles Northeast of Greeley. The address is 2511 Oak Road, Greeley. From Greeley, take North Front Street North. There is a slight bend to the East and Front Street becomes Nature Road. Drive 1 mile and turn right onto Oak Road. You will arrive at the park in about 1.5 miles.
This park is located at the SE corner of the town of Delhi. From the middle of Delhi, go to Hwy 38. Turn South on Lake Street and this will take you into the park.
The address is 2124 267th Street, Manchester. From Manchester, take X21 (Jefferson Rd) Southeast 7 miles. Turn left onto 267th St and go 1.6 miles. The park is on your right.
Take Mason Road in Burlington to the east left around the north end of the airport. This is the last stoplight on HWY 61 at the south end of Burlington, just past Culvers and Buffalo Wild Wings if you are coming from the north the first stop light if you are coming from the south Follow this around the airport to Summer St. the next light, and turn south right. Follow Summer St. south a few miles until you see a sign for Cessford Quarry turn east left there and follow it over the RR tracks, looking for the parking lot designated Blackhawk Bottoms. Follow the waking path into the field where you will encounter plenty of water.
North of Burlington in Des Moines Co. FROM THE SOUTH: Just north of the 9-mile marker on Hwy. 99, or 1.5 miles north of Stony Hollow Rd./155th St., take 170th St. east. Proceed two miles to 40th Ave., then one mile north on 40th to 180th St., and finally two miles east on 180th to the landing. FROM THE NORTH: 170th St. is 3.5 miles south of Kingston along Hwy. 99, then as above.
From Mt. Pleasant: Take US Highway 218 south to county road J20. Take J20 eastbound, and the road goes through the park.
This area is at the intersection of County Rd 99 and Pumping Station Rd.
Mississippi River Pool No. 19, "Colusa elevator"
In eastern Lee County. Three miles either north of Ft. Madison or south of Wever, take J-50/190th St. east from U.S. 61 for 4.5 miles to X-50/Green Bay Rd. Proceed south (right) on Green Bay Rd. a little more than two miles, just past the grain elevator, and look for open water. Note that the road ends as a private drive. Shortly before the elevator also see Green Bay Access.
Immediately north of the City of Spirit Lake, in northern Dickinson County. Accessible from all sides by paved roads, state parks, wildlife areas and boat launch sites.
Nn the west shore of Spirit Lake in northern Dickinson Co. This point is about three miles north on Hwy. 276 from the south end of the lake, or 1.5 miles south on 276 from Jackson Co. Rd. 2 (Minn.), and adjacent to East Hottes Lake.
In northwestern Dickinson Co. Take IA Hwy 9 west 3.5 miles from intersection with IA Hwy 86, then turn south on 170th Ave. and go 2 mi. south on gravel road to parking lot on west side of preserve. OR, from the west side of West Okoboji Lake, take A-22 west from Hwy. 86, 3.5 miles to 170th Ave. Go north on 170th a little more than 1.5 miles to the parking area on the right, after 180th St. (both streets and avenues are numbered in Dickinson).
From the town of Estherville, take Highway 9 west to the town of Superior. In Superior, turn north on 1st St. 1st St heads out of town and turns to the right briefly before becoming 330th Ave northbound. Take 330th Ave north to the slough.
Diamond Lake is located just below the Minnesota border, west of Spirit Lake. From City of Spirit Lake, take IA Hwy 9 west to intersection with IA Hwy 86. Take hwy 86 north 3.5 miles to Diamond Lake public entrance road on west side of highway. OR, from Milford take US Hwy 71 north one mile, then take highway 86 west and proceed around west side West Okoboji. Continue north from intersection with Hwy 9 until reaching Diamond Lake entrance.
From US Hwy 71, between cities of Okoboji and Spirit Lake, take paved 170th Street 1/2 mile west to nature center entrance on south side of road.
Just south of Lake Park (city) in northwest Dickinson Co., immediately south of Hwy. 9 along M-27, on the east side. for best site access and viewing, take 140th Ave. south from IA Hwy 9, 1 mile east of Lake Park turnoff on M27. Travel 1 mile south on gravel to see marsh in Dugout Creek valley, then continue 1/2 mile to parking area along road which bisects the wetland.
From the town of Estherville: Take state Highway 9 west to the town of Superior. Continue west through Superior, and Highway 9 and US 71 merge. Take 9/71 into the town of Spirit Lake. To view the north end of the lake, turn north at the intersection of 71/9 and Hill Ave. Continue north on Hill Ave. until it turns into Orleans Pkwy. Continue north until you hit a T-intersection with South Lake Shore Dr. (M-49) Take a right at the T-intersection until you reach the intersection with M-56. Take a right on M-56, and you can view much of the north end of the lake from this road.
At the Minnesota border in northern Dickinson Co. Near the north end of West Okoboji Lake, take Hwy. 86 north from Hwy. 9 five miles to 100th St., at the Minnesota border. Turn right (east) on 100th and follow this as it soon curves south and becomes 215th Ave. The boat ramp and parking area for the lake are about half a mile south on the east side. Also, continue following gravel road south and east until reaching another parking lot, for walk-in access to the enire area.
From Iowa Highway 9, on the east side of the bridge over East Okoboji Lake, take Co. Highway M-56 winding north about 4 miles to the Hales Slough entrance road sign. Turn west and follow entrance road to parking area between lake and marsh. Also, continue about 1/4 mi. north on M-56 to a roadside parking area along the restored grasslands.
From the interrsection with U.S. 71 just north of Milford, turn west on IA Highway 86, following it about 5 miles west and north until arriving at Lakeside Lab along the east side of the highway, OR take IA highway 86 south from its intersection with IA High 9 near the NW corner of West Okoboji Lake.
While there are many accesses to this sprawling complex, best access is via the main entrance road to the area and wildlife unit headquarters. From IA Highway 9, take the main street of downtown Spirit Lake (Hill Ave.) and follow it north around the NE side of East Okoboji Lake to the T-intersection on the south shore of Big Spirit Lake. Then turn left and follow Co. Hwy. M-49 around the SW side of Big Spirit Lake about 2.5 mi. until reaching 125th Street (across from Marble Beach State Park. Turn west on 125th and go about 1 mi. until reach Kettleson Hogsback entrance sign and road on north side. Follow entrance road into wildlife area headquarters and multiple parking areas.
From north end of downtown Milford, take A-34 (a.k.a. 220th St.) east two miles from U.S. 71, to 240th Ave. Turn north on 240th and continue 1 1/2 mi. north. Tract is on west side of road.
Northeast of Milford in northeast Dickinson Co. Out of Milford, take A-34 five miles east from U.S. 71 to 270th Ave. Proceed north on 270th two miles to 200th St., and continue north 3/4 mile to the parking area on the west side, at the only deciduous woodlot.
From downtown Spirit Lake, follow the main street north, winding around the NW side of East Okoboji Lake. Turn west on Co. Highway M-49 at the T-intersection on south shore of Big Spirit Lake. Continue west and north to the entrance of Marble Beach RA on the east side of M-49.
On the east side of Spirit Lake in northern Dickinson Co. Take Hwy. 327 about four miles north from Orleans to 110th St. A few hundred yards further, on the left, is Martha Yarns Dr., and a sign for the beach. Property above ordinary high water mark is all privately owned. Birders should stay on the roadwhile viewing birds on the lake and not try crossing private properties to reach the beach.
From the intersection of Iowa Highways 9 and 86, travel 3 mi. north on 86, then turn east on 120th street. Go 3/4 mi to parking lot on north side of road.
Follow Co. Hwy. M-49 north along the west side of Big Spirit Lake. On reaching the Minnesota state line, turn east on paved road (100th St). Continue across "the Grade" and look for state park entrance sign on S side of road immediately after crossing.
From the DNR Fish Hatchery on the South shore of Big Spirit Lake, go east to junction with Co. Hwy. M-56, then turn north and travel about 3 miles to the slough on the east side of the highway.
The eastern lobe of West Okoboji Lake in northern Dickinson Co. One viewing point is near the U.S. 71 bridge at the north edge of the city of Arnolds Park.
- at the east end of the isthmus (Hwy. 327), which is just north of the town of Spirit Lake, between East Okoboji Lake and Spirit Lake in northern Dickinson Co.
"The grade" - at the western end of the north shore of Spirit Lake in northern Dickinson Co. Just east of Hwy. 276 along Jackson Co. Rd. 2 (Minn.), check the small bay and the rock jetty.
Northeast of Milford in northeast Dickinson Co. (See also separate listings for Bartley Tract, Krummen Tract, Prairie Lake, Reiter-Lair W.A., and Wolthius Tract, all sub-portions of Spring Run, elsewhere on this website). The original core area of 950 acres is most easily reached as follows: from main downtown intersection with Hill Ave. in City of Spirit Lake, take IA Hwy 9 & US 71 east about 4 miles to reach 280th Ave. Turn south on 280th and travel 3 miles to reach the NE corner of the historic core area.
On the west side of Dickinson Co. From Hwy. 9 just south of Lake Park, take M-27/130th four miles south to 190th. Take 190th right (west) two miles to 110th Ave. and the lake is in the vicinity southeast of this intersection.
Northeast of Milford in northeast Dickinson Co. Out of Milford, take A-34 east four miles to M-56/260th Ave. Proceed north on M-56 three miles to 190th St., and continue north 1/4 mile to the parking area on the west side of the road.
From the intersection with Hwy (9 & 71 about 1.5 miles east of downtown Spirit Lake, turn north on Co. Highway M-56. Follow this as it winds north approximatly 5 1/2 mi. until reaching a curve west on the IA/MN state line. Continue 1/8 mi. west; Trickle Slough is on south side of road.
From the town of Estherville: Take state Highway 9 west to the town of Superior. Then take US Highway 71 westbound. Stay on 71 until you get to the town of Spirit Lake. Once in town, turn south on 71, and continue to the town of Arnold's Park. Go through Arnold's Park, and past the Emerald Hills Golf club. You will soon see Okoboji Blvd. to your right. Take a right on Okoboji Blvd. and that will take you along the entire south end of the lake.
Take IA Hwy 86 north from junction with Hwy 9, near NW corner of West Okoboji Lake. State and fedearl lands that comprise this approximately 1,100-acre complex are immediately adjacent on east side of 86. Continue north 2 miles, and most lands on both sides of highway are all part of the complex.
Northeast of Milford in northeast Dickinson Co. Out of Milford, take A-34 east three miles from U.S. 71, to 250th Ave. Proceed north on 250th two miles to a sharp left turn, 202nd St. The tract is on the south side along 202nd, just after the turn, past the Krummen Tract parking area.
Kerper Blvd. exit, Hwy 151. Turn west onto 16th St and park in the Kwik Stop lot.
Take Central Ave (SR 3) north through Dubuque. Turn right on E. 32nd Street, which becomes Peru Road. Follow Peru Road for 2.2 miles until it junctions with Riverside Road. Take Riverside Road around the John Deere plant and start birding. Once you cross the railroad tracks, there is a gravel parking lot 0.3 miles on the right. From here, gravel paths take you around the impoundment or to a vantage point where you can scan the river.
The site lies southwest of the city of Dubuque. From US Hwy 20 at Center Grove, take Cedar Cross Road south for 1.4 miles, then turn right (west) on North Cascade Rd. Follow North Cascade Rd. for another 1.4 miles until you see the Storybook Zoo on the right. Do not enter the parking lot of the Storybook Zoo; rather, follow the gravel road counterclockwise around the perimeter of the property until you come to a small parking area and gate. Park here and follow the road beyond the gate to access the many trails in this park.
Take E. 22nd St. and turn left on Windsor Avenue; after a half mile, the cemetery is on the right. This is a private cemetery, so park along Windsor Ave. and walk in.
Directions to the interpretive center, where you can pick up a map of the park: From city center, take US Hwy 52/60/151 south to Key West. Turn left on US 52 south (toward Bellevue), then immediately take the next left on to Bellevue Heights Rd. Follow this road appx. 0.5 miles to the parking lot of the interpretive center (on the left).
From Hwy 151, take the Kerper Blvd. exit and follow Kerper Blvd. north to its end and turn right either on Hawthorne St. or Lincoln Ave, which will connect you with Volunteer Dr. This road runs north and south along the river and provides opportunities to park along the way to scan the river.
Take Central Avenue north out of Dubuque, where it becomes Highway 52/3. Bear right onto C9Y at the village of Sageville and turn right onto Mud Lake Road just after you pass Sageville Elemetary School on the right. Follow Mud Lake Road to its end (about 3.6 miles) and the entrance to the park.
From city center, take US Route 20 (Dodge Street) west out of town. From the junction with the Northwest Arterial (Highway 32), follow Route 20 west for 4.3 miles and turn left onto Swiss Valley Road. Follow Swiss Valley Road for 2.3 miles and then make a sharp right turn into the entrance to the park. There is an interpretive center here with trail maps and exhibits. Numerous trails lead you through upland forest and prairie habitats.
Take Highway 52/3 north out of Dubuque and proceed about 26 miles to the village of Luxemburg. At Luxemburg, turn right (north) onto Highway 52, proceed 1.5 miles and turn left onto Lake Road. Follow Lake Road for 1.2 miles to a small parking area on the left. Park here and hike the path through the preserve. Alternate access: At Luxemburg, continue west on Highway 3 for 2 miles and turn right onto White Pine Lane. Follow this road to its end and a small parking area. Trail access is limited here.
In the southwest corner of Emmet Co. Two miles south of Wallingford along Hwy. 4, take 250th St. west 4.5 miles to the lake.
North access: From Estherville, east on highway 9 about 8 miles to 470th Ave, then south 2 miles to 190th St, east again very briefly to the first gravel south into the lake.
South access: From Estherville, south on highway 4 about 2 1/2 miles to 200th St, then east 2 miles to the "T". Continue south about 1+ miles to A33, then straight east 2 - 3 miles to the gravel north into the lake.
From West Union head SE on Echo Valley Rd ~2 miles.
1 mile west of Rockford on B47 (215th Street).
West side (county): From Floyd, take Quarry Road north 2 miles. East side (state): From Floyd, take U.S. 218 north 3 miles to 130th Street, then west 1 mile to Idlewild.
Southeast side of Nora Springs. Access is off Cameo.
On the west side of Quail, at 115th Street.
Go North of the town of Floyd on Hwy. 218 for about a half mile. Turn right, east, on County Road T64 and go 1.1 miles. Turn left, north, on Quail Ave. The park will be on your right in less than a half mile.
Start Point: Intersection of IA 3 and US 65 in Hampton. Head EAST 2 miles on IA 3 to Nettle Ave. Turn right (NORTH) and proceed 1.8 miles to park entrance.
Start Point: South edge of Meservy on CR S14. Proceed SOUTH on S14 for 3 miles. The marsh will be on your left (EAST) and there should be a parking area--though poorly marked.
Start Point: Intersection of I-35 and IA 3. Go 2 miles WEST to Dogwood Ave. Turn left (SOUTH) and proceed 2.2 miles. The area is on your left (EAST) and extended east and north. There is parking along the gravel road.
From Geneva go NORTH on CR S56 for about 1.5 miles. Turn left (WEST) on 120th Street. Proceed 1/2 mile to gravel pit on the NORTH side of the road.
pines. Parking is available along the cemetery roads.
Start point: Intersection of I-35 and IA 3. Proceed WEST on IA 3 1 miles. At Eagle Ave turn left (SOUTH) and proceed 1 mile. Interstate Lake will be on your left.
Start point: Intersection of IA 3 and US 65. Head straight SOUTH on US 65 for 4.5 miles. Park entrance will be on you right (WEST) side.
Start Point: Intersection of CR S56 and IA 57 on the north side of town. Proceed .2 mile NORTH to the FIRST entrance to the park (campground area). Lots of trees. The SECOND is .3 miles further NORTH and again the entrance is on you your left (WEST) side. This part of the park is outstanding with numerous ponds, trees, and open areas.
Start Point: Intersection of IA 3 and US 65 in Hampton. Head NORTH 2.3 miles on US 65 to C31/170th Street. Turn right (EAST) and proceed 1 mile to Quail Ave. Turn right (SOUTH) and proceed .1 miles on Quail Ave. Park will be on your left (EAST).
A traditional spot for CWWi. At the northwest edge of Waubonsie S.P. in southwest Fremont Co. is the intersection of Hwy. 2 and L-44/Bluff Rd. Proceed north on L-44 slightly over one mile to 270th Ave. on your right. Take 270th, and after about 1/4 mile it bends strongly left. You will see a conspicuous, large new house up on a hillside overlooking a sloping field alongside the road. Park along here at dusk and listen.
take 200th Street west from I-29 to 175th Avenue. Turn south on 175th Ave. to 210th Street and turn west. Take 210th St. west until you reach the levee. Drive over the levee and there is a parking area (in poor condition).
In the northwest corner of Fremont Co., take the Tabor exit (J-10) going east off of I-29. Almost immediatley turn south on Western Ave., just under three miles to 135th St. going east. 135th runs close along the south shore of Forney Lake, and the water is easily scoped. If you continue east, the first crossroad at the end of the lake is L-44/Bluff Rd. Turning north, there are two parking areas along L-44 at the east end of the wetland.
From Highway I-29, exit at Highway 2 and go east 1 mile to 225th Avenue. Go south and southeast on 225th Avenue, crossing over I-29 about 4 miles to 290th Street. Go west on 290th Street 1/2 mile to Frazer's Bend.
To get to Green Hollow WA go east out of Thurman, turn north at Plum Creek Road (J18) go maybe a mile and turn north on Cemetery Road. the road will turn west and then back to the north , this is where you should start to listen for the Chucks. Green hollow is on the west side of the road about one mile down the road.
From Shennandoah, take westbound Highway 2 to county road L-68 and turn south. This will take you to the east end of the WMA. Stay on L-68, and drive through the town of Riverton. In Riverton, turn west on County Road J-46. Just west of town is the south end of the WMA.
In southwestern Fremont Co. Take Hwy. 2 east from I-29 for 2.5 miles to 240th Ave., a dirt road. Proceed north on 240th two miles to Secret Lake. There's no approach to the lake not involving dirt roads.
In western Fremont Co. Take the Percival/J-26 exit off I-29, and go east on J-26 (200th St.) for 2.5 miles to 220th Ave., a dirt road. The Sheldon Basin area is about one mile south on 220th, near 210th St. To avoid the dirt road, off I-29 instead go south through Percival two miles, along 195th Ave., to 220th St. Go east on 220th St. a little more than two miles to 220th Ave., and then north one mile.
From the town of Riverton, take Highway 2 west about 10 miles.
From Jefferson, south on Highway 4 five miles to Highway E57. Then east five miles to S Avenue. Then south 1/4 mile to parking lot.
In western Greene Co. From U.S. 30, take Hwy. 25 three miles south through Scranton to E-53/250th St. Take E-53 west three miles to the slough. Additional area access available by continuing west on Highway E53 to Highway N58, then south two miles to 270th Street, then east one mile, then north on B Avenue. Also, south on B Avenue two miles to Highway E57.
From the town of Jefferson, take Highway 4 north out of town about 6 miles until you reach the intersection with 170th St. Turn west on 170th and the lake is about a mile.
From Rippey, go north on Highway P46 1, 2, and 3 miles. Roads going east traverse the area.
From Jefferson, go east on Highway 30 four miles to Highway P33, then 2.5 miles north to 195th street, then 1/2 mile to entrance.
From Jefferson, go 3 miles east on Highwayh E53, then four miles south on Highway P30, and one mile south on Redwood Avenue.
To find Wolf Creek Recreational Area from Hwy 20 follow 14 south through Grundy Center. Two miles west of Grundy Center turn left (south) onto T29 (K Ave) to Beaman. At the north edge of Beaman turn left onto 330th Street, go two miles on gravel and turn right onto M Ave. Wolf Creek is 1/2 mile south on the right side.
About 3 miles northeast of Panora. From Panora. Take Highway 4 north to 200th St. Turn east and go about 2 miles to the lake.
In northwest Guthrie Co. Northwest of Guthrie Center, follow F-32, seen on the Iowa highway map, six miles west from N-70 to Dogwood Ave. There is a parking area just north at Dogwood's first bend right, and also farther along Dogwood, about a mile north of its bend left. Finally, continue north on Dogwood to 165th St., and turn west 1.5 miles to a parking spot with a lane leading into the area.
In northeast Guthrie Co. From Hwy. 4 just west outside of Yale, take F-25/160th St. two miles east to the slough. The entrance is on the north side of the road, and easy to miss. A trail leads off from the parking area. NORTH SIDE: Along 150th, just west of P-30/Wood Rd. (the next road east from the above entrance), a lane leads into a boat launch with viewing of a large slough. A smaller lobe of water is viewable by parking along 150th just before the lane above, and climbing up the short embankment (there can be shallow water in the ditch along the road, requiring knee boots).
One mile south of Panora, Iowa on Highway P28.
In northeast Guthrie County. From its intersection with 1st Ave./Hwy. 144, at the south edge of Perry, take Hwy. 141 ten miles west to P-30/Wood Ave. Take P-30 south two miles to 140th St. and turn left (east) one half mile to the marsh.
Take Highway P28 south of Panora to 268th Street, then east to Winding Trail to its end.
From Bayard, 3 miles west on Highway 141, the south 1 mile on Highway F20 (Hickory Avenue).
From Stuart, Iowa, north on Highway P28 4.5 miles. Area is on both east and west side of highway.
From Guthrie Center, west three miles on Highway 44, then north one mile on Highway N70 to 220th Street. Then west 3/4 mile to site on the north.
From Guthrie Center, go north on Highway 25 6.25 miles to 160th Street. Then east 1.2 miles to entrance for the park. Continue on 160th Street one mile east to entrance to Springbrook Conservation Education Center facilities.
From Interstate 80 West, take Exit 76 at Adair and go north on Highway N54 about ten miles to Frost Lane. Turn right onto Frost Lane and go about one mile to 240th Streen, then east to entrance..
On the east side of Jewell in southeast Hamilton Co. A private lake with viewing to the west from along Saratoga Ave. north of Hwy. 175.
In southwestern Hamilton Co., at the Boone Co. border, one mile west of Hwy. 17, although there is no road directly west to the marsh from 17. FROM THE SOUTH in Boone Co., take Hwy. 17 north two miles past E-18/130th St. to 110th St. Proceed west one mile on 110th to S Ave., and then one mile north to the marsh. FROM THE NORTH in Hamilton Co., take Hwy. 17 south four miles out of Stanhope to 390th St. Proceed one mile west on 390th to Inkpaduta Rd., and then one mile south to the marsh.
In southern Webster City: Take Highway 17 to Ohio St., and turn west. The cemetary is on the south side of the road. The address is 1000 Ohio St.
- in southern Hamilton Co. The lake is two miles south of Jewell along U.S. 69.
Just east of the city of Crystal Lake.
On the north side of the city of Crystal Lake.
Between Britt and Garner, turn north off U.S. 18 onto Lake. Access is about 1 mile north.
Four miles west of U.S. 69 at Goodell, three miles east of Kanawha.
On the southwest edge of Forest City. Take Quail Avenue south off B14.
From Interstate 35, take the Highway 9 exit (Manly/Forest City) and turn west. Take highway 9 to 210th Ave. and turn south. There are signs to guide you.
East end is in Cerro Gordo County in the town of Ventura. West end is in Hancock County - take 250th Street from Ventura west about 1.5 miles to the parking area.
- in Hardin Co. Meier W.R. is about one mile west of Hubbard along Hwy. 175, right along the south side of the road.
In eastern Hardin Co. Go east on Hwy. 175 one mile from its intersection with Hwy. 215 in Eldora, to S-56. The southwest end of the Lower Lake is 1/4 mile north on S-56. Turning right here, a boat launch is a short distance; continuing northward instead leads to a beach area at the northwest corner of the lake. Upper lake: Continue north on this road from the beach area a little more than half a mile, to a campground and other accesses at the south end of the long, narrow Upper Lake.
Just west of the town of Missouri Valley on the Missouri River. From I-680, turn north on I-29 and within a mile will be the Desoto Ave exit. Take this exit and turn west to the refuge.
Starting Point: I-29 Exit 95. Proceed 1.7 miles NE on Vine St/Easton Trail to Main St. Turn left onto Main (aka F20/Easton Trail). Continue 2.5 miles on F20/Easton. MAKE SURE to stay right onto F20/Easton Trail when it separates from Larpenteur Ave.
Southwest of city of Elma. Access is off B17 on the west edge of town.
Less than 1 mile north of Riceville, on the Howard County side of Addison Avenue (T68).
Northwest of city of Elma. Access is off 170th Street, 1 mile west of V18.
SE corner of Hiway 9 and V46.
Traveling on 169 turn west on C26. Continue on C26 for 8 miles, and turn North at Delaware Ave. Continue on Delaware Ave for 6 miles and then turn West onto C20 at the stop sign. Proceed west for a quarter mile. There will be a sign and you will see the pond. You can pull into a little culvert but should not proceed beyond fence (road is mostly mud…and you will get stuck especially in Spring). Otherwise you can drive by slowly and check out the fenceline, the pond or the back fencerow/hedge for any interesting movement.
Coming on Interstate 169 turn East at the stop light onto Wildcat Rd. One block east on Wildcat road you will come to a stop sign where you will turn North onto Sumner Ave. Follow Sumner Ave over the bridge and when you get to the intersection immediately East of the bridge turn north onto N 9th Street. Parking lot is immediately after the turn.
Traveling from 169 turn west onto C29 follow this through the town of Rutland continue on road after blacktop becomes gravel (converts from C29 to 200th street). Continue on 200th St until you reach intersection/merge with Florida Street. Take the south spur winding around and going over the bridge across the W. Des Moines River. Continue on this gravel road until you reach Elm Ave, at stop sign you turn north and follow the road (it merges into 190th St) for 1.5 miles. You will see a long driveway that goes north from the road, take it until you come to a small parking area.
From Interstate 169 turn E on 270th street/C49. Drive on 270th St/C49 for half a mile and turn north onto Gotch Park Road. Continue north for ~3/4ths of a mile, park entrance is immediately north of the river crossing on the East side of the road.
From the town of Fort Dodge: Head north on US Highway 169 until you reach the intersection of County Rd C49. Take a left on C49, and continue on until you reach 320th Ave, which is just past County Rd P19. Take a right on 320th Ave, and the lake will be on your left.
From Interstate 169 Turn West at the intersection with C26. Continue west on C26 for five miles until you come to Georgia Ave. Turn north onto Georgia Ave and continue for a 1.5 miles turning west onto 155th st. Continue westward on 155th street for a mile, coming to the intersection of 155th street and Florida Ave (there will be a sign at this intersection, the thin road to the south is the access road to the property, go south on this road until you come to a large grassy parking area).
Just adjacent to the large bridge spanning the Des Moines River as it intersects highway 169 in Humboldt.
In Iowa Falls: Take Oak St. (Highway 65)north to the intersection with North St. Turn left on North St all the way to the T-Intersection with River St. Turn right on River St, and go about 600 ft to the intersection with Siloam Ave. Turn left on Siloam Ave and travel about 500 ft. The cemetery is on the left side of the road.
From Interstate 169 turn west onto C26. Continue on C26 through Bradgate, access is on the western side of the town of Bradgate. Access road is on the south side of C26. Three Rivers Trail access directly at front end of access road (just off of C26).
- in central Ida Co. Just outside Ida Grove, the entrance to Moorehead is north off Hwy. 175/U.S. 59.
In northeast Iowa Co., just north of Homestead. This area is on the west side of U.S. 151 directly across from where it is met by U.S. 6 coming from Iowa City. On entering, turn left to the parking area. The trails are color-coded, and a map is posted at the parking area.
In northeast Iowa Co., just west of Amana. North side viewing: In Amana, follow Hwy. 220 west for 3/4 of a mile from U.S. 151, and the lake and its parking area are seen on the south side of the road. South side viewing: continue west on Hwy. 220 a little more than one half mile to H St., and turn left. Entering a residential section, follow H to its end at 32nd Ave. Turn right on 32nd and park at the end of the street, in front of some houses. Walk through the clump of trees ahead and turn left onto the sidewalk which circles the lake. At first you'll be walking along a marshy inlet, and then to the main water.
the marsh to the east may be viewed.
South of Homestead in northeast Iowa Co. At the south edge of Homestead, take W Ave. south. Upland Sandpipers are frequently found along W after the first half mile, and in the general vicinity of W and 180th St.
A privately owned prairie restoration in southwest Iowa Co., open to public birding. Take the Ladora/Millersburg exit no. 211 off I-80. Go south on V-52 about 5 miles to 265th St. Turn left (east) on 265th and go slightly less than one mile until it ends at I Ave. Turn left (north) on I Ave. and after about a mile look for the gray pole barn and parking area on your left, address no. 2549. Enter the east property on foot across from the parking area. Henslow's Sparrows are regularly found throughout the grassland here.
At the Mississippi River in southeast Jackson Co. Along U.S. 52, four miles south of Z-34, or 1.5 miles north of Z-40, is Green Island Rd. going northeast toward the river. A half mile or more along curving Green Island Rd., pass through the tiny settlement of Green Island, cross the tracks, and note the first DNR road heading north on your left, with a sign; this road is best ignored. Continue 1.5 miles to the second northbound road. On its east side is continuous wetland. It ends with parking at a large pond/marsh. Walk a few yards back up the road, past the inlet, to a two-rut trail leading east for closer viewing. Back at Green Island Rd., continue one mile east to a large parking area on your left, overlooking an extensive wetland, Blake's Lake, with a dike to the west. Drive the lane going east from the parking area itself, bear left at the fork, and come to a parking area for another dike, with viewing from the east.
In eastern Jasper County, just north of I-80. Take exit 179, go north on Hwy. T-38, then go east on Jacob Ave. Access points are along this road.
Lewis Park is located behind the high school in Colfax. From I-80, take the Colfax exit 155 and go south into Colfax. Turn left onto East Division Street until it comes to a T. Turn left onto North League Road and take the first right and follow the gravel road on the right into the park.
Located in southwest Jasper Co., just south of Hwy. 163 at the Prairie City exit. "Walnut Creek N.W.R." in the older Sportsman's Atlas edition. Road construction is currently underway (summer and fall 2015), so take 129th St. south from Hwy. 163, then turn left onto 102nd Ave. to reach the visitor center.
From Newton, take Highway 6 east about 5 miles to the intersection with Highway 224. Turn north on 224 another 5 miles until you get to CR F27. Turn right for about 3 miles and you are at the park.
On the upper Coralville Reservoir, Hawkeye W.A., northwest Johnson Co. A few miles north of I-80, take the North Liberty/F-28 exit off I-380. Go west on F-28 about 3.5 miles to Greencastle Ave. Take Greencastle 1.5 miles north to Swan Lake Rd., just after a pond on your right. Turn right (east) on Swan Lake, a B-level road here, 0.8 mile to the Babcock entrance road on your left. Follow this to its end at a small parking area. Where the road turns left to the parking lot and boat ramp, an old road goes NE from this left turn and may be walked sometimes.
This can also be accessed from Swan Lake, going W. The road is often in better shape coming from the E.
Ciha Fen, a recent Johnson County Conservation Board acquisition in the far NE corner of Johnson Co. It is an 80 acre property of botanical and geological interest, containing on of only 2 nutrient poor fens in the state of Iowa. It is underbirded.
From Iowa City, take Hgw 1 n, through Solon, continuing ~1.5 mile 145th St. [or come S from Mt Vernon on Hgw 1 for 4.25 mile] Go East for 6.45 mile. The road appears to change names. You will come to and cross the new Sutliff Br. At this point Lisbon Road continue N and White Oak Ave goes S. Take White Oak Ave S, past Sutliff, for a total of 2.37 miles. Go E for a bit less than 1.5 miles. there will be assign, a small parking area and a gate on the N side of the road. Do not block the gate on weekdays when the JCCB crews may need to get in. This is the SE corner of the property. The Ciha Fen property is divided roughly in half by an E-W fence. There is a gate at the W border to enter the N 40.
The dam is located 4 miles N of Iowa City. There are numerous points of access to view the water, or to bird the woods around the reservoir. Directions for most are are below.
South of North Liberty in Johnson Co. ABOVE THE DAM(beach): Two miles north of I-80 along Dubuque St. (an Iowa City exit), or 2.5 miles south of North Liberty along Dubuque St., look for the Army Corps of Engineers sign to the dam on the east. From there follow the signs for the beach area. MORE VIEWING: At one point you have a choice of heading toward the beach/dam area (right) or the campground (left); the campground also affords viewing of the reservoir.
from the Swisher/Shueyville exit of I380, take CR F12 east about 5 miles until it ends at CR W6E or Ely Rd. Go south on Ely Rd about a mile, then turn right on 140th St. Go west on 140th St .5 miles to a gravel field driveway on the north side of the road. Just NW of the ATV Park Park there and walk North Northeast about 250 paces to a large oval shaped semi open area surrounded by large willows with dense green ground cover about 12 to 18 inches high and a half inch of standing water.
- on the lower Coralville Reservoir north of North Liberty in Johnson Co. Take the Shueyville exit east off I-380. After about a mile turn south on Sandy Beach Rd. in Shueyville and follow this winding road, paying attention to the signs, a little more than four miles to viewing of the reservoir.
access the area from the opposite side of the water (opposite from Sandy Beach) by taking highway 965 north out of North Liberty, turn right at the sign to Scales Point, follow the road toward Scales Point until the road takes a 90-degree turn to the right and there is a small parking lot with a gate. Park there, walk through the woods down to the water's edge and follow the shoreline until you find where the shorebirds are feeding.
East of Dubuque, 0.9 mile North of the West Overlook Rd and 1.8 m S of North Libery.
the bridge area of W60 (Hwy. 965).
At Lake Macbride, north of North Liberty in Johnson Co. Follow F-28 off I-380 into and through North Liberty. Turn north at Front St. in North Liberty and continue following F-28 about 4.5 miles to Cottage Reserve Rd., just over the causeway. Turn left on Cottage Reserve, and then take the next left and follow this road to Cottage Reserve Woods at its end, at the boat launch. There is a short lane on your right leading to the woods trail.
North of North Liberty at the lower Coralville Reservoir in Johnson Co.
VIEWING ACROSS FROM MARINA: 0.9 mile S of where Hwy. 965 from where it crosses I-380, take Meadow Rd. to the east. There is a very short distance until Curtis Bridge Rd goes off to your left. [the First Left]. Drive a short distance and park. You walk down to the Lake. In the winter, you can drive almost to the water.
This is a working marina so please respect the private property.
CURTIS BRIDGE BOAT RAMP: 0.3 south of where Hwy. 965 from crosses I-380, take Curtis Bridge Rd. to the east. Follow the road 3/4 of a mile, including an initial sharp left turn, to its end at the water.
In southwest Johnson Co. Take Hwy. 1 about eight miles west from U.S. 218 near Iowa City. The parking lot is on the north side right where Hwy. 1 bends due south. The basic walk is a wide trail that simply goes straight north into the park, ultimately to a tract of woods. In the woods you eventually come to a bridge at a stream; along the woods walk there are side spurs on the right worth walking. There are another couple of trails across the bridge and to the right which are less neatly defined.
It is located in the north W half of the rectangle bounded by 240th St [north], Kansas Ave and the Heartland Express facility [west], Alexander Way [east] and Nick Dr on the S. Coming into N Liberty from the I 380on F 28/Penn St, turn N on Kansas, drive a short distance to Nick Dr [<0.2 mi], turn Right and immediately turn Left on an unnamed gravel road that leads to some electrical boxes [< 0.2 mi]. As you drive in there is a small wetland on the W, a ‘Federally and Locally Protected Wetland’. To view Goose Lake from the N, continue past Kansas and turn Left on Alexander Way. Turn W on 140th [a gravel road than eventually ends at a private house].
At Coralville Reservoir, Hawkeye W.A., in northwest Johnson Co. A few miles north of I-80, take the North Liberty/F-28 exit off I-380. Go west on F-28 about 3.5 miles to Greencastle Ave. Take Greencastle two miles north, crossing Swan Lake Rd. just after a pond on your right, until you’re on the dike. SHOREBIRDS: In season there is usually a population or two that can be scoped from the road, to the east. Depending on conditions, you can often leave the road and walk east for a stretch to see more pockets of shorebirds--start just north of the inlet that reaches to the road. Also, with correct water levels on the west side, shorebirds often congregate along the far shore of the bay to your right. You can walk closer to them along the north shoreline, and a little farther west through the grass here is a second inlet with shorebird habitat. In all cases, boots are recommended.
In Hawkeye W.A. in northwest Johnson Co. Two fairly small wetlands straddle Greencastle Ave. directly south of Swan Lake Rd. The east side is always an open pond, and the west side is a grassy marsh with little or no open water. A few miles north of I-80, take the North Liberty/F-28 exit off I-380. Go west on F-28 about 3.5 miles to Greencastle Ave. Take Greencastle 1.5 miles north to the ponds.
At the upper Coralville Reservoir in Hawkeye W.A., northwest Johnson Co. A few miles north of I-80, take the North Liberty/F-28 exit off I-380. Go west on F-28 to the first road, James Ave., and take this north 2.5 miles, including a very slight jog to the right at Swan Lake Rd., until it makes a sharp right turn. Park along here and walk the dirt lane, starting at the "Refuge Now Open" sign, west toward the reservoir. The shoreline can also be approached at the end of James, by continuing another mile.
From I-380, turn west on F-28 until you get to Greencastle Ave. Go north on Greencastle and turn west at the first 4-way intersection. This intersection is near the Gun Club Ponds. Go west and Round Pond will be on the north side just past the power lines.
In Hawkeye W.A., northwest Johnson Co., on the upper Coralville Reservoir. A few miles north of I-80, take the North Liberty/F-28 exit off I-380. Go west on F-28 to the first road, James Ave., and take this 1.5 miles north to Swan Lake Rd. Go west on Swan Lake one mile to the Sand Point parking area lane, across from Swan Lake itself. It's a 15- or 20-minute walk out to Sand Point.
- in Swan Lake S.P., at the southeast edge of Carroll in central Carroll Co.
North of North Liberty in Johnson Co. Follow F-28 off I-380 into and through North Liberty. Turn north at Front St. in North Liberty and continue following F-28 about 4.5 miles to Cottage Reserve Rd., just over the causeway. Turn left on Cottage Reserve, proceed and then take the first right. Follow this road all the way around to the boat launch on the lake. See also Lake Macbride, north arm, Opie Rd.
On the north shore of the north arm of Lake Macbride, northern Johnson Co. Out of Solon, from Hwy. 1, take Hwy. 382 a little more than three miles west to Opie Rd. on your left. This is just over a half mile west from Ely Rd./W6E if coming from the north. Follow Opie Rd. south one half mile to a parking lot at the water; there is also a boat ramp with parking a couple of hundred yards west from here.
road goes north (right) between two houses. Pavement ends shortly.
Dirt road leads to a fork. Either way leads to a parking area.
about 7 3/4 mi. Go right on gravel Cemetery Rd. Follow Cemetery Rd.
such, but there is a small sign that says " Wildlife Restoration."
vegetated swale and follow to the pond.
In southwest Johnson Co. From U.S. 218 near Iowa City take Hwy. 1 west less than four miles to F-52/Black Diamond Rd., on your right. Take F-52 about 3.5 miles west to the Redbird parking area on your right, just past Hazelwood Ave. Across the road is a field tract, which is also part of Redbird. Shortly south of the parking area there, along the trail, is a marshy pond which can be productive when wet.
Just west of Solon in northeast Johnson Co. IF COMING FROM HWY.1 - turn west on Hwy. 382, Main St. in Solon, and follow it west to the west edge of town, where there is a fork. At this point follow Main St. slightly to the left, rather than 382 slightly to the right. Quickly come to a T-intersection, Chabal St., and turn left (south). Come soon to another T-intersection, Sovers St., and turn right (west). The trailhead is at the first bend left (south), where there is a church in front of you, and a high school field to the right. IF COMING FROM NORTH OF LAKE MACBRIDE and west of Solon along Hwy. 382, look for Chabal St. on your right just at the west edge of Solon; then as above. IF COMING FROM THE LAKE MACBRIDE AREA - take Mahaffey Bridge Rd. north to 180th St., and then take 180th east (right), along the south shore of the lake's north arm, 1.7 miles to Racine Rd. Turn left (north) on Racine, and the trailhead is at the first bend to the right, where the church is.
In the lower Coralville Reservoir area, northeast of North Liberty in Johnson Co. Follow F-28 off I-380 into and almost through North Liberty. Turn north at Front St. and continue following F-28 about three miles to the Sugar Bottom entrance, immediately past the first causeway and on your right. There is often gull viewing on the reservoir at the campground's beach area, when it is open.
In Hawkeye W.A., northwest Johnson Co. A few miles north of I-80, take the North Liberty/F-28 exit off I-380. Go west on F-28 to the first road, James Ave., and take this 1.5 miles north to Swan Lake Rd. Go west on Swan Lake one mile to the Sand Point parking area lane, across from Swan Lake itself, on the north side. The woods along this lane and the general area around the parking lot are locally referred to as "Swan Lake Woods."
In Hawkeye W.A. in northwest Johnson Co. A few miles north of I-80, take the North Liberty/F-28 exit off I-380. Go west on F-28 to the first road, James Ave., and take this 1.5 miles north to Swan Lake Rd. Go west on Swan Lake one mile to the lake.
At the south edge of Iowa City is the major intersection of Gilbert and U.S. 6, just east of the Iowa River. Turn south on Gilbert, away from downtown, and go about 1.5 miles to Sycamore St. on your left (east), at the south edge of the large body of water on your right. Go a little more than one half mile east on Sycamore until it bends sharply left. At this point, continue straight ahead on the paved drive, heading for the isolated apartment complex ahead. Park in the farthest east spaces of the apartments' lot. Sycamore Bottoms is to the southeast over the hill. Look for the grass path just off the parking lot.
Trueblood is a 150+ acre park in S Iowa City, between Gilbert St / Sand Rd and the Iowa River. It is just S of McCollister Blvd. It contains Sand Lake , a 95 acre former sand and gravel quarry. In season it is good for waterfowl, and the area between the river and lake is good for Eur. Tree Sparrows. Formerly it was known as Sand Lake, Sand Lake Park, the S&G Quarry.
In Iowa City in Johnson County. Take the Dubuque ST exit off of I-80, about a mile west of the Iowa River. Go north a little over a half-mile on Dubuque ST towards the bridge over the river. Turn left (west) into the parking lot just before the bridge.
From the City of Cascade, take 1st Ave. W / Hwy. 151 Business west about one-half mile; then take Butterfield Road south about five miles; Butterfield Road ends at Indian Bluffs WMA.
NORTHEAST ACCESS: From X-40 in Morley, take Main St./E-45 east three miles to 160th Avenue. About one quarter mile south on 160th, just past the creek, take the unmarked gravel road right (west) to a view of the marsh. SOUTH ACCESS: Return to 160th Avenue, drive south 1.5 miles to 35th Street. Take 35th Street west (right) less than one mile to 170th Avenue. Take 170th Avenue north (right) to its end at a parking area and boat ramp.
From Monticello, take Oak E [it turns into Co Rd 38 and veers SE] for 3 miles. Turn E on 190th and drive for about 2 miles. After Camp Courageous the road [it is now Park Rd] becomes steep, narrow with a number of tight corners. Park Rd is closed in the winter.
From the intersection of Highways 1 and 151 in western Jones County, take County Road E34 north about three miles. Just before crossing the Wapsipinicon River and reaching the City of Anamosa, turn right on Upper Park Road to enter the park.
This park is located 2 miles North and 2 miles East of Sigourney. The main entrance to the Park is on 242nd Ave and there are clear signs directing you on Hwy 149.
From North English, go South on Hwy 149 3.5 miles. Turn East on 135th St and then make an immediate left onto 268th Ave. Go 0.5 miles and watch for a partially hidden sign for Coffman Woods on your left. There is room for parking, and then walk in along the path to the shelter. From South English, go North on Hwy 149 and make an almost immediate right onto 135th St. Note that on Hwy 149 there is no sign directing you to Coffman Woods.
In the extreme northeast corner of Keokuk Co. Seven miles east from North English in Iowa Co., along F-67, take S Ave. south two miles, including turns, to the parking area on your left. From the Iowa City area, take Hwy. 1 west and southwest as if to Kalona. About eleven miles along from U.S. 218 take 540th/F-67 west twelve miles to S Ave. Take S Ave. south two miles, including turns, to the parking area on your left. As the summer wears on, the grass leading to the water gets extremely high.
Haysville Bend is 2 miles West of Haysville on G48. There is a small brown "Haysville Bend" sign and green "Public Hunting" signs. From Delta go South on HWY 21 3.5 miles and turn left onto G-48 and go 2.5 miles.
Hall St. leaves the southwest corner of Algona, crosses the Des Moines River, and forks to become Orton Rd and Call Park Dr.
Blazing Star is north of the intersection of 410th St. and 120th Ave.
The new section is on the west side of 120th.
that first mile of gravel.
From Highway 69, turn west on County Road B30. Take B30 for about 5 miles to Lake Road and turn south.
intersection of county roads A21 and P20 in northwestern Kossuth.
of 370th St. and 150th Ave.
In the town of Algona, take Highway 169 to East Oak St and turn east. Go on East Oak St until you get to the intersection with North Phillips St. Turn north on North Phillips and continue to the cemetery. The entrance is at the intersection of North Phillips St and East Pine St.
- just north of Algona in southern Kossuth Co. Starting from Algona, Smith Lake Park is three miles north on U.S. 169 from U.S. 18.
East side of P60/190th Ave between 170th and 180th St. If you're looking for SMLO, this year's new planting is at the corner of 200th Ave and 180th St.
- in central Kossuth Co. Two miles north of Burt along U.S. 169, take B-14/330th St. east 2.5 miles for viewing of the slough.
the field at 120th Ave. and 270th St between Algona and Burt.
In western Lee Co. Out of Donnellson take U.S. 218 south two miles and continue south on Hwy. 27, the road to Argyle, where 218 bends southeast; 5.5 miles from this point enter Argyle and turn west on 295th St., where there is an old wooden church. Go three miles west, including the transition from 295th to Belfast Rd., and including several turns toward the end, to the edge of the Croton Unit. A short turnoff to a parking area is on the right along a straight stretch of road. A very rough trail leads north into the woods from here, easiest to explore by simply following the creek. Walking the road from the parking space west to the bridge is also productive.
In downtown Fort Madison along Highway 61, and next to the BNSF railroad bridge.
In eastern Lee County. Three miles either north of Ft. Madison or south of Wever, take J-50/190th St. east from U.S. 61 for two miles, past the railroad tracks, to 355th Ave. Follow 355th south about one mile to the marsh at left (east).
In eastern Lee Co. Heron Bend is about seven miles downriver from Ft. Madison along U.S. 61, between 260th and 270th Sts., east side of the highway.
In western Lee Co. Out of Donnellson take U.S. 218 south two miles and continue south on Hwy. 27, the road to Argyle, where 218 bends southeast; 5.5 miles from this point enter Argyle and turn west on 295th St., where there is an old wooden church. Go two miles west including the transition from 295th to Belfast Rd. Soon there will be a sharp turn right, and at the following sharp turn left is the junkyard area where the wrens have been found.
US Hwy 218 into town. Turn right (southwest) on S. 2nd Street, go one block, then left (southeast) on Johnson Street for about three blocks to Mississippi Drive. Follow Mississippi Drive southwest to near its end where a boat access area is found.
Off U.S. 61/Hwy. 2, follow 20th St. to its end at the river. This is a standard Ft. Madison birding stop with no known prohibition against scoping from this location. If sun angle is a problem, return to U.S. 61, proceed upriver and cross the bridge into Illinois at Hwy. 2/Ill. 9. Take Ill. 96 downriver through Niota, and at the first bend leftward, leave 96 and continue on the gravel road straight ahead. Soon take your first right, another gravel road, and scope the backwater directly along the road (Illinois birds). Continue from here looking for places to scope the river itself through small clearings in the trees (a bit tricky).
In the town of Keokuk, there is a boat ramp where people feed ducks, and watch Bald Eagles come in to roost.
In southern Lee Co. (1): Enter into Montrose from U.S. 61, now driving on Main St., straight to the river, where there’s a park. (2): Exit Montrose upriver on 1st St./River Road (You should pass the cemetery on your left), until it fairly soon meets U.S. 61. Scope from the small Linger-Longer rest stop here. (3): Enter onto U.S. 61, heading upriver toward Ft. Madison. Look for the first road east toward the river, 276th St., at a gas station-convenience store. Follow 276th to the river and scope from where it turns sharply left. * See the Nauvoo entry for Pool 19, which often affords better viewing of the duck rafts, and the majority of which are still Iowa birds.
This marsh is in the town of Montrose just off US Highway 61.
In Cedar Rapids, Linn Co. Take the H Ave. exit off I-380 in town, and the lake appears quickly to the west. H Ave. ends at Shaver Rd., and parking is found directly across the road, and by following Shaver south (left) and then turning right, before the tracks. From this second lot, waterfowl also populate the channel found by walking past the lake toward Quaker Oats.
In Cedar Rapids: Take I-380 to eastbound Highway 100. Go east on Highway 100 about 3 miles until you reach the intersection with Highway Bus. 151. Turn south on 151 for about a mile, and the cemetery is on the west side of the road.
On the border of Marion and Cedar Rapids. Take the 29th street exit off Interstate 380 and continue along 29th Street past 1st Avenue. 29th Street will become 29th Street Drive and then 30th Street Drive. Turn left at Tama Street. The entrance to Faulkes Woods will be on your right at the dead end.
Go to Cedar Rapids on highway 380 and take the Diagonal Drive exit. Continue on Diagonal Drive, which turns into 8th avenue, which turns into Mount Vernon Road. Continue going east on Mount Vernon Road until you get to Bertram Road with "A Touch of Class" convention center and an Indian Creek Nature Center sign on the right. Turn right onto Bertram road and then drive across a large blue bridge. Continue along Bertram Road until you reach the Nature Center parking lot at the intersection of Bertram and Otis Roads.
From the town of Anamosa: Take Cherry St NW out of town. This road turns into Ridge Rd (E28). Take Ridge Rd about 4 miles northwest, and then it turns into Buffalo Ridge Rd. Go a little more than a mile northwest, and this road will intersect with Hart Rd. Take a left for about 1/2 mile on Hart Rd, and there will be Matsell Park Rd, where you will turn left and enter the park.
- on the west edge of Cedar Rapids in Linn Co. About 4.5 miles west on U.S. 30 from I-380, take Stony Point Rd. less than three miles north to Worcester Rd. Turn left (west) on Worcester to the park.
32nd St. Dr. in SE Cedar Rapids.
In western Linn Co, ten miles northwest of Cedar Rapids. For all points except the south section of the lake: From Blair’s Ferry Rd. at the north edge of Palo, take Palo Marsh Rd./W-36 three miles north to the park entrance road on the left (west). The drive you come to skirting the lake does not completely circle the lake. Turning left it will end at some jetties and boat launches, on the south shore (the lakeside pines with owl sightings are reached from the parking area here), and to the right it will end in the campground, which is actually away from the north shore, and without scoping possibilities. However, look for a lefthand turnoff just before the campground, at the top of a rise, which leads to good viewing of the lake and of an inlet. Probably the most consistently fruitful waterfowl viewing is from the shelter area near the dam, just after you turn right onto the road skirting the lakeshore.
The Roller Dam is on the Cedar R, downriver from downtown Cedar Rapids.
From C Street, turn onto Ely Rd across from the Alliant plant. Go through the single lane underpass (after stopping), turn left onto Old River. Go past the Shack Tavern and pull off just past the dam. There is a lane tbetween Old River Road and the Cedar.
About three miles east of Cedar Rapids. The park's north entrance is one half mile west on Hwy. 100 from Hwy. 13, and shown on the Cedar Rapids inset on the state highway map. Enter and soon take the first right turn, and then very quickly another right turn, and follow this road to various birding spots throughout the park. After paralleling Hwy. 100 for a stretch, in winding fashion past grasslands, the road turns sharply left away from the highway, and soon you come to the parking lot in front of the lodge. Here the road becomes a loop, and can be taken in either direction to various parking areas and trails.
in southeast Cedar Rapids. The park is just east of 12th Ave. SE and 19th St. SE.
in Linn Co., northwest of Cedar Rapids. On the north side of Cedar Rapids, take Blair’s Ferry Rd. west off I-380 five miles, including several curves, to Feather Ridge Rd. Take Feather Ridge one mile north (right) to Morris Hills Rd. Take Morris Hills west one mile to the park.
In eastern Louisa Co. Two miles north of Wapello on U.S. 61, just north past the Iowa River, take K Ave. west about 1.5 miles to the slough’s Main Access entrance road on your left, where K bends right. From the parking area enter the fields at right and take the trails to the edge of the slough, walking generally northward. A trail will eventually parallel the shoreline. There is also viewing as you first approach the parking area.
- in eastern Louisa Co. Just west of Grandview, take U.S. 61 south a little more than three miles from Hwy. 92 to G-56, which is a gravel road east off U.S. 61 (or, take U.S. 61 north 3.5 miles from its intersection with Hwy. 99 in Wapello). Go east on G-56 three miles to a T-intersection at X-61. Turn north on X-61 and then very quickly turn east on 120th St. Continue east on 120th, downhill and then into the wildlife refuge.
From Wapello, go east on Cty 99 (formerly State 99) for 2-3 miles to 114th Ave. Follow that gravel rd for 2.2 miles. At that point land is on each side of the rd. with cables to prevent vehicles from driving on the area.
In southeastern Louisa Co. Begin in Toolesboro on Hwy. 99. Follow the sign for the access pointing you north, along Prairie St. At the bottom of the hill is a gate, which begins the public area. The road runs between wooded backwaters. 0.4 miles from the gate come to a parking area on the left. The trail from here leads beside a section of wetland to the right. This wetland is larger than appears and can be circumvented, not smoothly, from its far side. Otherwise the main trail, sometimes very muddy, leads eventually between two woodland ponds; ultimately through open land to a small lake. Continuing on the road leads along more wooded backwater, to the access.
In southeastern Lucas County: From the town of Chariton, take US Highway 34 east to S56 and go south about 6 miles to 420th St. Go east on 420th St. about 2 miles until you encounter water just past the 320th Ave intersection.
In central Lucas Co., the marsh begins about a mile south of Chariton on both sides of Hwy. 14, just south of the Chariton River. The east side is generally the most productive. The Oak Marsh Education Center is on the left side of the highway at the south end of the marsh.
Go east of Chariton on Highway 34 for approximately three miles. The entrance will be on your right. A DNR administered wildlife management area adjoins the park to the south.
In western Lucas Co. Just west outside of Lucas, the entrance is on the south side of U.S. 34 less than one half mile west of its intersection with U.S. 65, marked 137 TR. The forest road is indicated with a brown sign when traveling westbound, but this sign is not visible when traveling eastbound. After crossing a wooden bridge of questionable merit over the railroad tracks, travel straight on for less than a mile to the forest entrance. A signed left turn leads to a birdy pond with an adjacent picnic and camping area about a mile east of this intersection. Traveling straight will lead past two small picnic/camping areas until exiting the forest at the south end.
Southwest of Lucas in western Lucas Co. About two miles south on U.S. 65 from the town of Lucas, look for signs to the Whitebreast Unit to the west. If visiting the Lucas Unit, simply exit this forest unit to the south and turn right at 467th St. intersection. After about a mile you will enter the Whitebreast Unit. Note that the only vehicle access to this unit is from the east. The forest road has a western terminus and you cannot exit the forest from there to points west.
In southern Dallas Co. From Booneville, just west-southwest of Des Moines, take F-90/360th St. west one mile to Badger Creek Ave. Take Badger Creek Ave. south two miles. The entrance to the park is on the west side of the road.
Jensen Marsh is at T75N R26W Sect. 1, mostly in Madison Co.
Evidently the eastern end of the site just crosses the county line into Warren Co.
This is south of Bevington, north of St. Charles.
Parking is at the west end of this rather linear site. Walk east along the dike, stopping frequently to scope the very many waterfowl as your moving along disturbs them.
We approached from the south on R35, turned right at the sign.
In extreme northeast Mahaska Co., about 1.5 miles south of Barnes City. The main entrance is east off V-13, 1/4 mile north of G-17, and difficult to spot. Where the the main entrance road forks, both roads lead to parking on the water, and together these cover scoping for the entire north arm and the middle third of the lake. The remaining east part of the lake is viewable from Victoria Ave. crossing the water: Return to V-13 and drive south one mile past G-17 (120th St.) to 130th St. on the east (left). Proceed east on 130th for 1.5 miles to Victoria Ave. and turn north (left). Victoria crosses the lake at 3/4 of a mile. Returning to V-13 from here is much simpler by retracing your route than by continuing north toward Barnes City.
In southeast Mahaska Co., about five miles east of Oskaloosa alongside Hwy. 92. A parking area for the northeast side of the marsh is at T-60/Snyder Rd. A parking area on the southeast side of the marsh is just up Snyder Rd., on the right. The west end of the marsh can be viewed by walking in that direction from the end of the southside parking area, a short distance through grass, although there is no actual trail.
In northern Marion Co. Scope above the dam from the overlook behind the Visitor’s Center at the south end of the dam (T-15), and from a small turn-in at the north end of the dam. The dam is at the southeast end of the lake. Access the spillway from the dam’s south end, east side of T-15.
North of the dam at Lake Red Rock, in northwest Marion Co. Take T-15, the road to the dam at the lake's southeast end, south from G-28, which skirts the north shore. Look for Bos Landon Golf Course on your left and then the Eagle Creek subdivision on your right. At the sign for Eagle Creek, follow the entrance road to its end at a cemetery, and the open water is to the right.
Various areas can be accessed by making a loop around the lake from north of Knoxville east to near Pella and back to Knoxville.
In the northwest corner of Marion Co. Along Hwy. 14, either two miles south of Monroe (in Jasper Co.), or three miles north of G-28 at Lake Red Rock, take Carpenter St. going west; 6.5 miles west along Carpenter, after passing 72nd Ave. to the north, take 68th Ave. south to the Boxcars boat ramp area along the Des Moines River. (In the Sportsman's Atlas, 68th Ave. is not marked and appears, misleadingly, as a very short spur before Carpenter dead-ends).
- on the north shore of Lake Red Rock in Marion Co. About 5.5 miles east along G-28 from its intersection with Hwy. 14, take the entrance road south to the marina.
In northwest Marion Co. From the town of Runnells in extreme southeast Polk Co., travel five miles south on Hwy. 316 to Dubuque St. (Dubuque St. is about four miles south of Runnells W.A.). Before reaching Dubuque you will pass the road to the town of Swan, to the east, and Dubuque will be one more mile south from here. Proceed east on Dubuque three miles to where it curves south (right), becoming 40th St. At this point, however, take the gravel road going north, to your left. Follow this to the parking area at the water. Walking the area requires boots. Start out straight ahead north from the parking area, walking an old roadbed. The roadbed is often under shallow water in a couple of short stretches, but not deeper than standard rubber boot height. Eventually turn right (east) for more viewing, although these sections can be very mucky in places.
Along the north side of Lake Red Rock in northern Marion Co. Follow G-28 a little more than three miles east from Hwy. 14, over the causeway to the park's entrance to the north.
On the north shore of Lake Red Rock in northern Marion Co. Gulls are viewed by looking north from the causeway along G-28, about three miles east of Hwy. 14.
In northern Marion Co. From the south end of the dam, follow T-15 three miles, first south and then curving west, to S-71. Take S-71 north (right) about three miles to the Whitebreast Point area. Turn left just before S-71 goes downhill to the water (which is itself a viewing point), and scope from--among other places--the boat ramp area off left, and Whitebreast Point itself at the end of the road, about one mile.
Start Point: Intersection of IA 330 and S75 (about 1/2 north of Albion in Marshall County. Head WEST on S75 for ~ 1/2 mile. Continue straight WEST on 160th (NOT S75 which goes north) for another 1.2 miles to Lafayette Ave. Turn right (NORTH) onto Lafayette and continue 1 mile on Lafayette (go around a corner to the west). BEFORE you get to the next curve going NORTH there will be a lane heading SOUTH--should have a posted sign there but.… Take this lane heading SOUTH and then turn WEST. Proceed to the parking area.
Start point: Intersection of t CR S75, CR E18, and IA 311 at the south edge of Liscomb. Proceed 1 miles SOUTH on S75. Turn right (WEST) onto 125th and proceed 1 mile to Knapp Ave. Turn left (SOUTH) and go 1/4 mile. Turn right (WEST) into the lane going to Grammar Grove. Proceed to the parking lot.
From the WEST: Start at intersection of US 30 and IA 300 (this is several miles west of Marshalltown). Proceed WEST to Exit 181 (appox 2 miles. Take the exit and follow it eastward to Oaks Ave/Highland Acres Rd (1.4 miles). Turn left (NORTH) and proceed .7 miles to 233rd Street. Turn left and proceed .6 miles to parking.
From the EAST: Start at intersection of US 30 and Marshalltown (Exit 185 do NOT get off this is just a start point. Proceed WEST and TAKE next the exit marked Oaks Ave (appox 2.5 miles_. Turn right (NORTH) and proceed .7 miles to 233rd Street. Turn left and proceed .6 miles to parking.
From Marshalltown center--intersection of IA 14 and E35 go NORTH .6 miles to Riverside Street. Turn left (WEST) for .3 miles then bear right (NW)onto N. Center Street. Proceed 1.4 miles to Sand Rd and turn left (WEST). Proceed 1 miles to parking lot. This should be on the left (SOUTH) side of the road partway through a curve.
From intersection of IA-330 and 180th (north end of the town of Marietta) follow 180th Street 2.4 miles as it winds west and north. At Knapp Ave turn right (NORTH) for 1/2 mile to the parking lot on the right (EAST) side of the road.
From Marshalltown center intersection of IA 14 and E35 go NORTH for .5 miles to E Marion Street. Turn right (EAST) and proceed 1.4 miles. Park of the side of the road. Marsh is on the SOUTH side of the road.
Start point: SE corner of St Anthony (NW Marshall County). Proceed 1 mile WEST on CR E23. Prairie Creek WMA is on the NORTH side of the road just BEFORE you get to Binford Ave.
400th Street, one-half mile west of north/south stretch of Hiway 9.
Begins at Nature Center 1 mile west of Osage on Hiway 9.