Rice Lake State Park

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rice Lake State Park is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 228 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and Downy Woodpecker among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

Loading map...

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

Green-winged Teal

Anas crecca

2/25/2026Lake Kohlmeier1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

23/5/2026

Trumpeter Swan

23/5/2026

Wild Turkey

13/5/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

13/5/2026

Bald Eagle

23/5/2026

Barred Owl

23/5/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/5/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

13/5/2026

American Robin

53/5/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

12/21/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12/21/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

12/21/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

32/21/2026

Eastern Bluebird

12/21/2026

House Sparrow

12/21/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

32/21/2026

Mourning Dove

12/21/2026

Rough-legged Hawk

12/21/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

22/21/2026

Blue Jay

72/21/2026

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 Rice Lake State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Rice Lake State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rice Lake State Park?
Notable species at Rice Lake State Park include Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rice Lake State Park?
Birding at Rice Lake State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Rice Lake State Park?
Rice Lake State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.