Stockton Lake and State Park

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Stockton Lake and State Park is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 218 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Horned Grebe, Common Loon, and Bald Eagle 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

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

3/4/2026Stockton Lake--Dam1 observed

Red-throated Loon

Gavia stellata

3/3/2026Stockton Lake--Cedar Ridge Campground1 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

3/2/2026E 487th Rd, Aldrich US-MO 37.54715, -93.612243 observed

Mute Swan

Cygnus olor

3/2/2026Dunnegan Memorial Park3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Horned Grebe

12/28/2026

Common Loon

112/28/2026

Bald Eagle

32/28/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

12/28/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

112/28/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

52/28/2026

Downy Woodpecker

22/28/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

12/28/2026

Northern Flicker

92/28/2026

Eastern Phoebe

12/28/2026

Blue Jay

12/28/2026

Carolina Chickadee

72/28/2026

Tufted Titmouse

12/28/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

12/28/2026

Brown Creeper

12/28/2026

Eastern Bluebird

102/28/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

132/28/2026

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