Clinton Lake State Recreation Area

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Clinton Lake State Recreation Area is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 221 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Snow Goose, Ross's Goose, and Greater White-fronted Goose among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

3/6/2026Allerton Park23 observed

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Passer montanus

3/1/2026Smith Yard1 observed

Northern Shrike

Lanius borealis

2/26/2026Upper Sangamon River Land and Water Reserve1 observed

Gray Catbird

Dumetella carolinensis

2/22/2026Centennial Park, Heyworth1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

1013/5/2026

Ross's Goose

13/5/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

4303/5/2026

Canada Goose

483/5/2026

Gadwall

63/5/2026

Northern Pintail

73/5/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

13/5/2026

Mourning Dove

13/5/2026

Killdeer

23/5/2026

Ring-billed Gull

3503/5/2026

American Herring Gull

13/5/2026

Turkey Vulture

13/5/2026

Barred Owl

13/5/2026

Downy Woodpecker

23/5/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

13/5/2026

European Starling

103/5/2026

Eastern Bluebird

13/5/2026

American Robin

23/5/2026

American Tree Sparrow

53/5/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

73/5/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Clinton Lake State Recreation Area for birding?
The best months to visit Clinton Lake State Recreation Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area?
Notable species at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area include Snow Goose, Ross's Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Gadwall. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area?
Birding at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area?
Clinton Lake State Recreation Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.