Clinton Lake

Kansas · Midwest

ModerateView on eBird

Habitat

Lake

Best Seasons

Spring Fall

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Clinton Lake is a productive birding destination in Kansas, with 274 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, and Mallard 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

Greater White-fronted Goose Canada Goose Mallard Bufflehead Wild Turkey

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Crested Caracara

Caracara plancus

3/6/2026stakeout Crested Caracara, Lawrence (2026)1 observed

Birding Tips

1
Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.
2
Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.
3
Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in Kansas

Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area

Largest US inland marsh and critical Central Flyway shorebird stopover.

Quivira National Wildlife Refuge

Unique inland salt marshes with nesting Snowy Plovers and migrating Sandhill Cranes.

170th Road (Quivira National Wildlife Refuge - 40th Avenue)

Wetland birding hotspot in Kansas with 220 recorded species.

Kansas Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in Kansas →

Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City: The Complete Urban Migration Guide

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Clinton Lake for birding?▼

The best months to visit Clinton Lake for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.

What birds can I see at Clinton Lake?▼

Notable species at Clinton Lake include Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Mallard, Bufflehead, Wild Turkey. The area supports lake habitats.

How difficult is birding at Clinton Lake?▼

Birding at Clinton Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Clinton Lake?▼

Clinton Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.