The Birding Hub
The Birding Hub

Clinton Lake - Model Airport & Marsh

Kansas · Midwest

ModerateView on eBird
Habitat
WetlandLake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Clinton Lake - Model Airport & Marsh is a productive birding destination in Kansas, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and lake habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Great Blue HeronRed-winged BlackbirdMallardGreen HeronVirginia Rail

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

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. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 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.

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 - Model Airport & Marsh for birding?▼
The best months to visit Clinton Lake - Model Airport & Marsh for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Clinton Lake - Model Airport & Marsh?▼
Notable species at Clinton Lake - Model Airport & Marsh include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Clinton Lake - Model Airport & Marsh?▼
Birding at Clinton Lake - Model Airport & Marsh is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Clinton Lake - Model Airport & Marsh?▼
Clinton Lake - Model Airport & Marsh offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.