Great Salt Plains State Park

Oklahoma · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Great Salt Plains State Park is a productive birding destination in Oklahoma, with 225 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, and American Wigeon among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

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

Franklin's Gull

Leucophaeus pipixcan

3/4/2026Ingersoll Cattle Pens1 observed

Whooping Crane

Grus americana

3/1/2026N2740 Rd, Jet US-OK (36.6895,-98.1277)3 observed

Neotropic Cormorant

Nannopterum brasilianum

3/1/2026Great Salt Plains SP--Sandy Beach1 observed

American Avocet

Recurvirostra americana

2/22/2026Salt Plains NWR, Eagle Roost Trail2 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Start birding at dawn when desert birds are most active before the heat.

  2. 2

    Check around water sources, which concentrate desert species.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Great Salt Plains State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Great Salt Plains State Park for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Great Salt Plains State Park?
Notable species at Great Salt Plains State Park include Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Great Salt Plains State Park?
Birding at Great Salt Plains State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Great Salt Plains State Park?
Great Salt Plains State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.