Lake County's natural spaces create a perfect place for bird watching...
Rolling hills, restored wetlands and established woodlands comprise much of Lake County, Illinois, making it a magnificent destination for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. With more than 30,000 acres of forest preserves, Lake County has a myriad of options for novice and advanced birders alike. Over 300 species of birds have been recorded within Lake County, so you never know what your bird watching adventures will bring!
Many of the area's preserves and natural areas are touted as excellent birding destinations, recognized for their exemplary habitat, due in large part to Lake County's commitment to wildlife preservation. From Red Tailed Hawks and Barn Owls to song birds and Sand Hill Cranes, both nesting and migrating bird species take advantage of the large variety of habitat located throughout Lake County, including a green corridor which runs north to south along the Des Plaines River Trail. The variety of habitats throughout the county includes Volo Bog State Natural Area, home to Illinois' only quaking bog and is a favorite destination for migrating cranes. Head to Fort Sheridan in Lake Forest for a fresh water coastal habitat along the shores of Lake Michigan and enjoy scenic views while watching for beautifully colored song birds.
Lake County is a quintessential birding destination in Illinois where seasonal rarities often show up. The vast amount of land brings incredible numbers of birds to the county every year, and we welcome and support birders who enjoy our feathered friends. Almond Marsh in Grayslake is home to a great blue heron rookery, and rare sedges hide small rodents that the Cooper's Hawk and Peregrine Falcon can't resist.
Need a guide? No problem! Join a resident bird watching expert in the area from the Lake County Audubon Society for a group trip or discussion. If you plan on visiting the Chicagoland area, consider bird watching in Lake County.
Continue here to view a map of our Top 10 Bird Watching locations.
Blog: Springtime Bird Watching
 |
Top 10 Birding Sites
Here is a list of our Top 10 Birdwatching sites throughout Lake County. Includes Ryerson Woods, Fort Sheridan, Independence Grove & more. |
|
 |
Seasonal Birdwatching Guide
This seasonal birdwatching guide gives you a detailed description of the birds you will see at each location. |
|
Return to Lake County Outdoor Guide
18 Results found (1 - 18 shown)
Almond Marsh Forest Preserve (Grayslake)
The highlight of this site is the significant marsh and sedge meadow complex. Approximately 110 acres here enjoy added protection as a dedicated Illin...Read More
|
Bowen Park (Waukegan)
Bowen Park has been transformed into a public park with the widest possible range of recreation facilities. The park houses the Waukegan History Museu...Read More
|
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods (Riverwoods)
Located among pristine woodlands in the Ryerson historic home in Riverwoods, Il., Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods promotes the importance of nature ...Read More
|
Captain Daniel Wright Woods (Mettawa)
This peaceful oasis among the bustling suburbs offers 4 miles of scenic trails: a short loop for hikers, bicyclists and skiers that circles a pond, an...Read More
|
Chain O' Lakes State Park Riding Stable (Spring Grove)
The Chain O' Lakes State Park Riding Stable invites you to "Come Ride With Us". Listen...You can hear the rhythm of your horse against the backdrop of...Read More
|
Chain O'Lakes State Park (Spring Grove)
Located in the heart of Illinois' largest concentration of natural lakes, Chain O'Lakes State Park is a water oriented recreation area with outstandin...Read More
|
Chicago Botanic Garden (Glencoe)
The Chicago Botanic Garden, with its world-renowned plant collections and displays, is one of the country's most visited public gardens and a preemine...Read More
|
Des Plaines River Trail and Greenway (Wadsworth)
The Des Plaines River Trail and Greenway protects land along more than 85 percent of the river in Lake County, providing wildlife habitat, natural flo...Read More
|
Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area & Welcome Center (Riverwoods)
Ryerson Woods is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This area is one of the best examples of a northern flatwoods forest, a rare nort...Read More
|
Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve (Ft. Sheridan)
NOTE: Due to ongoing restoration as part of the Great Lakes Fish and Ecosystem Restoration program, this location will be experiencing closures to sec...Read More
|
Illinois Beach State Park (Zion)
Illinois Beach State Park is located along the shores of Lake Michigan from Waukegan to the Wisconsin state line. The park offers a campground, full ...Read More
|
Independence Grove Forest Preserve (Libertyville)
This scenic 1,135-acre preserve offers a wide range of outdoor recreation and education opportunities centered around a 115-acre lake reclaimed from a...Read More
|
Lake County Audubon Society (Libertyville)
The Mission of the Lake County Audubon
Society is Education, Conservation and
Restoration of natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, and other wild...Read More
|
Lake County Forest Preserves (Libertyville)
As principal guardian of Lake County’s open space and natural areas since 1958, the District manages nearly 31,000 acres of land and offers innovative...Read More
|
Lakewood Forest Preserve (Wauconda)
Lakewood is Lake County's largest forest preserve. This preserve features dedicated equestrian trails and additional trails for hiking, cross-country ...Read More
|
Old School Forest Preserve (Libertyville)
Looking for winter fun, Old School Forest Preserve is the place to be. Bring out the sled, cross-country skis and ice skates and enjoy the outdoors. S...Read More
|
Park District of Highland Park (Highland Park)
The Park District of Highland Park, founded in 1909, operates and manages over 650 acres of land in 44 park areas, and offers approximately 3,000 recr...Read More
|
Volo Bog State Natural Area (Ingleside)
If you're looking for a truly unique outdoor adventure, head for Volo Bog State Natural Area in northeastern Illinois. Just 45 miles northwest of Chic...Read More
|
|
|
 |