The Birding Hub
The Birding Hub

Reelfoot Lake State Park

Tennessee · Southeast

EasyView on eBird
Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Reelfoot Lake State Park is a productive birding destination in Tennessee, with 219 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Bufflehead, American White Pelican, and Red-bellied Woodpecker among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

BuffleheadAmerican White PelicanRed-bellied Woodpecker

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Red-tailed Hawk (abieticola)

Buteo jamaicensis

2/27/2026Madie Thompson Rd, Tiptonville US-TN (36.2799,-89.4343)1 observed

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

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Amenities

Parking
Restrooms
Trails
Visitor Center

More in Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Elevation-diverse Appalachian park with northern breeding species and rich warbler variety.

Amnicola Marsh

Wetland birding hotspot in Tennessee with 203 recorded species.

Barkley Wildlife Management Area

Wetland birding hotspot in Tennessee with 205 recorded species.

Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

How to Identify Birds Like an Expert: The Four Keys to Field Identification

11 min read

The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Birdwatching: Gear, Identification, and Etiquette

8 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Reelfoot Lake State Park for birding?▼
The best months to visit Reelfoot Lake State Park for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Reelfoot Lake State Park?▼
Notable species at Reelfoot Lake State Park include Bufflehead, American White Pelican, Red-bellied Woodpecker. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Reelfoot Lake State Park?▼
Birding at Reelfoot 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 Reelfoot Lake State Park?▼
Reelfoot Lake State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.