Home // Things to Do // Wildlife Viewing
Things to do in and around LBL
Wildlife Viewing in Land Between The Lakes
Land Between the Lakes offers a wide variety of wildlife viewing opportunities across its forests, wetlands, grasslands, and shorelines. Because the area supports diverse habitats and sits along major migration routes, visitors can see a broad range of animals throughout the year. Over 250 species of birds have been documented here, and mammals such as beavers, deer, and even herds of bison add to the experience of watching nature in motion.
Some of the best places to observe wildlife include the Woodlands Nature Watch Area, where bottomlands and marsh edges attract waterfowl and wading birds, and the Elk & Bison Prairie, which offers a chance to see large grazing animals from a distance. Other notable spots include Long Creek Wildlife Refuge for migrating songbirds, and quiet bays and shorelines where wintering bald eagles are often found.
Wildlife viewing here isn’t limited to a single season. Dawn and dusk are generally good times for sightings, and both warm and cool months offer distinct experiences on the landscape.
Images in this section courtesy Autumn Crawford.
Before You Go
Many viewing areas are easy to access, but conditions can change, so checking maps and current information before heading out is helpful.
Top Places for Viewing
- Hematite Lake
- Honker Lake
- Woodlands Nature Station
- Homeplace Working Farm
- Elk & Bison Prairie
- Lake Shoreline Areas
(for winter bald eagle viewing)
Cell Service & Navigation
Cell service can be limited in parts of LBL. Download details and maps before heading out to avoid frustration.
Best Time to Go
Spring and fall bring increased movement across the landscape, with early and late hours providing the best chances for sightings.
Wildlife Viewing in LBL
What to Expect
Wildlife viewing at Land Between the Lakes can range from easy roadside stops to quiet walks through nature watch areas. Many good viewing locations are accessible by vehicle with short walks or overlooks that let you watch animals with minimal effort.
Birdwatchers will find especially rich opportunities from spring migration through early summer, while winter often brings bald eagles and waterfowl to open water and shoreline areas. For larger mammals, the Elk & Bison Prairie and South Bison Range provide distant views from slow drives through open grasslands.
Because wildlife is most active in low light, mornings and evenings are often the best times to visit. Binoculars or a spotting scope can make sightings easier, and quiet observation helps keep animals undisturbed.
