Tawas Point State Park

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

$12 per vehicle (Recreation Passport)

Hours

Open daily, dawn to dusk

About This Location

Tawas Point State Park is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 303 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Mourning Dove, Black-capped Chickadee, and White-breasted Nuthatch 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

Mute Swan

Cygnus olor

3/3/2026580 N Huron Rd, Au Gres US-MI (44.1030,-83.5719)15 observed

Red-winged Blackbird

Agelaius phoeniceus

2/27/20266th Ave & Dead Creek1 observed

Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

2/27/2026705 Harbor St, Oscoda US-MI 44.40810, -83.327852 observed

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

2/22/20266743 Roanoak Drive, Oscoda Township, Michigan, US (44.474, -83.335)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

13/3/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

23/3/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

13/3/2026

House Sparrow

103/3/2026

American Tree Sparrow

33/3/2026

Common Grackle

33/3/2026

Northern Cardinal

23/3/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

13/2/2026

Tufted Titmouse

13/2/2026

American Robin

13/2/2026

Pine Siskin

23/2/2026

Bald Eagle

23/1/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  3. 3

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

  4. 4

    Consider purchasing an annual parks pass if you plan to visit multiple times.

  5. 5

    Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Tawas Point State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Tawas Point State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Tawas Point State Park?
Notable species at Tawas Point State Park include Mourning Dove, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Sparrow, American Tree Sparrow, Rock Pigeon, American Herring Gull, Cooper's Hawk, Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Cardinal, Redhead. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Tawas Point State Park?
Birding at Tawas Point State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
Is there an entrance fee at Tawas Point State Park?
The entrance fee at Tawas Point State Park is $12 per vehicle (Recreation Passport). Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk.
What amenities are available at Tawas Point State Park?
Tawas Point State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.