White Lake Refuge

Tennessee · Southeast

ModerateView on eBird

Habitat

Lake

Best Seasons

SpringFallWinter

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

White Lake Refuge is a productive birding destination in Tennessee, with 228 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Common Loon Bald Eagle Double-crested Cormorant Ring-billed Gull Bufflehead

Live Bird Data

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
Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.
2
Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.
3
Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

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

Where to See Bald Eagles in North America: A Seasonal Viewing Guide

11 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit White Lake Refuge for birding?▼

The best months to visit White Lake Refuge for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.

What birds can I see at White Lake Refuge?▼

Notable species at White Lake Refuge include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake habitats.

How difficult is birding at White Lake Refuge?▼

Birding at White Lake Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at White Lake Refuge?▼

White Lake Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.