Green River State Park photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Green River State Park is located in the town of Green River and consists of a nine-hole golf course, a campground shaded with cottonwood trees, and a boat ramp into the actual Green River which borders it on the east side. The campground which covers the southwest 1/3 of the park is a huge migrant trap with the biggest trees is the area.  Along the river the dominant species of tree is russian olive, with various other trees and shrubs including: willow, salt cedar, cottonwood, and other deciduous trees.  The riparian habitat is along a natural north-south migrant route following the river.  Sand bars, and beaches here provide more habitat, along with the obvious river habitat which ranges form shallow to deep enough to accommodate diving birds.  There are actually 5 ponds on the golf course as well, all of which can be viewed from roads or trails.  While the boat ramp provides the best views of the open water on the river, you can walk along the shoreline north and south as well to bird the river.  As this is a state park there is an entrance fee.

Birding:
Of the 4 public birding locations in Green River, the State Park as of this writing has the biggest species list, and the most number of visits.  It is also the biggest location, and easiest to access with the most varied habitats.  On the flip side it is also the busiest site due to the campers, golfers, and other outdoor enthusiasts that want to venture far enough form the big city, but not quite to the great outdoors.  In any event the bird species here are varied, and the biggest draw in my opinion is that the camp site is a huge migrant trap.  The large stand of trees is a centerpiece to the park.  Year round you'll find AMERICAN ROBIN, HOUSE FINCH, both LESSER and AMERICAN GOLDFINCH, and NORTHERN FLICKER.  Other species that are present year round may include HORNED LARK, COMMON RAVEN, and WESTERN MEADOWLARK. Both GREAT HORNED and WESTERN SCREECH-OWL call the woodlands here home.  During the winter months DARK-EYED JUNCO and WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW move in.   On the river in the winter months COMMON and HOODED MERGANSER are present, while other waterfowl might be seen as well.  During spring and fall migration a variety of waterfowl, shorebirds, and waders are possible along the river. During spring and fall migration you could put together a pretty good day list with the combo of the waterbirds and the migrants.

Even with the birders that have visited the migrant list isn't enormous.  There are a handful of surprise species that have shown up here late during the fall months including BROWN CREEPER, MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE, TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE, WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH, and RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER.  During the breeding season there are a few species that make a stop here worthwhile, including BLUE GROSBEAK, YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT, ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER, along with the more common LAZULI BUNTING, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, and BULLOCK'S ORIOLE.  I suspect September into October could be very productive here for migrants.  Spending some time scouring the grounds could easily push the area list over 100 species by adding various sparrows and warblers that absolutely pass through.

Directions:
From the intersection of SR-19/Main Street and Broadway in Green River, head east on Main Street for .4 miles. Take a right on Green River Blvd and go south for .5 miles to the park entrance.  Take a left into the park and you can continue .2 miles to the parking area at the boat ramp and go birding from here.

Sand Hollow Reservoir from Google Street View

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Description:
The sprawling 20,000-acre park, which rests mostly on USDI Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, rivals Utah's two largest state parks - Wasatch Mountain and Antelope Island. Sand Hollow already one of the most visited destinations in the Utah State Park system, with recreation opportunities for nearly every user from boaters to bikers, and OHV riders to equestrians. A favorite destination for local off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, Sand Mountain provides 15,000 acres of perfectly sculpted dunes. The red sand is an incredible backdrop for Sand Hollow reservoir. At nearly twice the size of nearby Quail Creek Reservoir, Sand Hollow offers boating and other water recreation in a spectacular setting.  The park opened in 2003 and sits at roughly 3,000' in elevation.  The reservoir comprises 1,322 acres of the park and is the main draw for birders.  As a state park this is a fee area.  Along the west edge of the park is the headquarters, campground, enormous parking area, boat launch and to the south the dam.  From here you can take the park road around the south end which is mostly beaches and flats, leading into the dunes to the south.  Most of the north and east end of the park is only accessible by boat.  Outside of the park gates you can take an old highway around the south end of the park into mostly sagebrush covered hills before flattening out in desert with a small cholla collective.  Being a popular destination for weekend warriors it is often crowded, loud, and not ideal for birding. During the week and early in the day however it is fantastic!

Birding:
When Sand Hollow was built it really changed the face of water birding in Washington County.  It replaced Quail Creek as the largest body of water, and out in the open desert to the south, became the location for migrant waterbirds to use.  With more than 175 species being recorded here it has an impressive list of rarities. 31 species of waterfowl have been seen here including all 3 SCOTERS, LONG-TAILED DUCK, 5 species of GEESE, and TRUMPETER SWAN.  Large flotillas of ducks converge here during the winter months and often number in the 1,000's.  PACIFIC LOON, RED-NECKED GREBE, NEOTROPIC CORMORANT, and BROWN PELICAN are a nice list of vagrant divers that have been observed here.  NORTHERN HARRIER are present around the edges of the reservoir, and in the fields adjacent.  GOLDEN EAGLE is seen fairly often soaring high over the desert here.  During the winter BALD EAGLE can usually be found as well.

The shorebird list is almost as impressive as the waterfowl list with 26 species being recorded.  The big treat here was a PURPLE SANDPIPER several years ago that was the first time the species have been observed west of the Mississippi.  SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, WHIMBREL, SANDERLING, DUNLIN, PECTORAL SANDPIPER, and RED PHALAROPE have all been seen here, showing jsut about anything can show up in the desert at this oasis.  POMARINE JAEGER to date is the only species to show up here, but I imagine all 3 will be recorded eventually.  With 10 species of gulls being recorded, its no surprise that vagrants are in the mix with HEERMANN'S, SABINE'S, WESTERN, GLAUCOUS-WINGED and LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS all being found here.  5 species of tern have been seen with LEAST, BLACK, and COMMON TERN all being notable. During the winter months SAGEBRUSH SPARROW, SAGE THRASHER, and CACTUS WREN can be picked up driving around the south end of the reservoir and checking the sagebrush and cholla patches. During migration various sparrow species may be seen, as well as all 6 regularly occurring species of SWALLOWS in Utah.  LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE can be seen year round, and NORTHERN SHRIKE has been recorded in the winter.

When birding at Sand Hollow I like to start at the entrance station where GREATER ROADRUNNER has be seen and head up to the parking lot stopping on the north end of the west dam.  From here you can scope the deeper areas of the reservoir near the dam.  You can also drive down a small dirt road here for closer viewing of the beach for shorebirds--this is usually only worth while in the morning or mid week when the water sports folks aren't out yet.  Continuing along the road in the parking lot headed north you can scan more beach, water, and the large rocks near the marina.  After working to the boat launch I head back towards the entrance and will take the park road south around the lake to the beaches for more scanning.  Gulls and shorebirds often roost here so these beaches are a good spot to spend some time  As you work east the water gets further away and you can drive to it in some areas.  Towards the east end is where many dabbling ducks are often found.  You can't really go wrong birding here from fall through late spring (May). The summer months are hot, and the place is packed.  But the rest of the year its a must stop while birding the area.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 16 head east on SR-9 for 4.6 miles.  Turn right onto Sand Hollow Road and go 4 miles till you reach the left turn onto Sand Hollow Parkway and into the entrance station.  Alternatively from Exit 10 in Washington, head south to the first light form the freeway and turn left onto State/Telegraph Street and go 1.1 miles.  Turn right on to 300 east and go 1.6 miles.  Turn left onto Washington Dam Road and go 2.8 miles.  Turn right onto Washington Dam Exit and go .2 miles to turn left to enter the Southern Parkway.  Follow this for 3.3 miles then turn left on to Sand Hollow Road.  After .8 miles turn right into the entrance to the park.

Quail Creek State Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Quail Creek Reservoir is a 600 acre man made body of water that was completed in 1985 to provide irrigation and culinary water to the St. George area. Most of the water in the reservoir does not come from Quail Creek, but is diverted from the Virgin River and transported through a buried pipeline. Two dams form the reservoir with a maximum depth of 120' .  The surrounding red rock desert and dry slopes create an oasis in the desert.  There is a campground along the main road with a number of deciduous trees creating a migrant trap.  The shore line provides numerous beaches, sandbars, and exposed rocks.  Near the inlet there are often mudflats when there is low water, and an overgrown riparian habitat created  a lush environment in this otherwise arid location.

Birding:
Quail Creek really is an oasis in the desert.  For over a decade it was the only major body of water in the area and attracted a fair share of amazing birds.  With the addition of Sand Hollow just to the south there is some competition, but the rare birds still find their way here.  For birders this is often a better location due to there being fewer water sports enthusiasts than Sand Hollow.  In any event, the bird list here is approaching 200 species and from October through April just about anything can show up. With 27 species of waterfowl on record the list is impressive.  EURASIAN WIGEON, BLACK, SURF, and WHITE-WINGED SCOTER have all been seen here.  Quail Creek is one of the few lakes in Utah where all 4 Loon species found in Utah have been seen.  RED-THROATED, YELLOW-BILLED, and PACIFIC LOON in addition to COMMON have all been seen here on multiple occasions. All regularly occurring grebes have been seen here as well as RED-NECKED GREBE.  During January 2015 a BROWN PELICAN was here for less than 24 hours and NEOTROPIC CORMORANT has been seen here a handful of times.  During the winter it is not uncommon to see all 3 MERGANSER species here, as well as WESTERN GREBE, and large rafts of gulls that are usually mostly RING-BILLED with some CALIFORNIA GULLS. With these gulls there have been some great finds. MEW, THAYER'S, LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL have all been seen, while HERRING GULL is reported occasionally.  During fall migration SABINE'S GULL are reported form time to time; while in the spring FRANKLIN'S and BONAPARETE'S GULLS are often reported.  All 4 regularly occurring Utah TERN species have been seen as well.  In October 2007 a very confiding LONG-TAILED JAEGER provided a lot of Utah Birders with their state lifer for this species here.

While waterbirds are the focus here, the shoreline boasts its own impressive species list.  Migrant shorebirds can't help but use this location--and that means a variety of species have been seen.  Notably PECTORAL SANDPIPER, BAIRD'S SANDPIPER, MARBLED GODWIT, and LONG-BILLED CURLEW. Moving away from the shore the campground is a great spot to look for migrants in May and during the fall. What is actually expected here is up to interpretation.  The campground host in the past has had feeders for hummingbirds and songbirds.  ANNA'S and COSTA'S HUMMINGBIRD have been seen, as have WHITE-THROATED and HARRIS'S SPARROW.  Some of the best passerine birding though is by the inlet.  The thick riparian habitat here attracts various warblers--with YELLOW and LUCY'S breeding here.  YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT, PACIFIC WREN, and WILLOW FLYCATCHER have been seen here.  One of the better finds here has been a PRAIRIE WARBLER!  The cliffs at the inlet are a good location to look for both CANYON and ROCK WREN.  BLACK-THROATED SPARROW can be found here and RUFOUS-CROWNED SPARROW has been observed as well.  The list goes on and on--really the best way to learn more about the birds here is to go birding at Quail Creek.  You won't be disappointed.

Birding here is all done along the west edge form the main road.  There is a pullout at the dam which is good for scanning the lower reaches of the reservoir for waterbirds. In the spring keep an eye out for BLUE GROSBEAK here.  You can scan the middle portions of the reservoir from the campground, as well as the main beach.  Walking here is easiest by parking in the campground area and walking the trees, and also in the boat launch area to walk or scope.  Near the inlet there are numerous pullouts to scan the upper reaches of the reservoir, and to park and walk into the riparian areas.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 16 for Hurricane/Zion head east on UT-9 for 2.5 miles. Turn left at the light and follow the road 1.1 miles tll you reach the dam on your right.  There is a viewpoint here where you can park.  You can also continue on the road another .9 miles to the campground on your right.  From here is is another .9 miles till the inlet.  Alternatively from southbound I-15 north of Leeds you can take ext 23 and go left under the freeway. Turn right onto N. Main Street and follow this road south for 3.8 miles.  Turn here and youare at the inlet and can follow the raod along the reservoir.

No Photo At This Time photo by Utah Birders

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Description:
The "south end" of Yuba Lake State Park is everything south of Painted Rocks on the "Yuba Lake" section of the reservoir.  This open water area is surrounded by desert, shrubsteppe, and juniper woodlands in the hills to the east and west.  A large floodplain where the Sevier River enters the lake on the south end creates various amounts of wetland, mudflats, beaches and otherwise unique habitats depending on the water levels of the lake.  Due to its dry surroundings this area is an oasis for waterbirds.

Birding:
Another under-birded hot spot the south end of Yuba doesn't get a ton of visits from birders.  In order to get here you would have to be on the west side of the lake for one reason or another and make an effort to bird the lake as you pass.  That being said it looks quite enterprising and could hold some interesting waterbirds especially during migration.  The fall might be exceptionally interesting given that this is the south end of the water, and nothing but open desert lies to the south.  The current eBird list consists of just a a few species.  CANADA GEESE, MALLARD, NORTHERN SHOVELER, and GREEN WINGED TEAL to name a few of the waterfowl. AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN and DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANTS for diving birds, and even SANDHILL CRANE.  I would image the bird list could potentially look something like Chicken Creek Reservoir if it were birded more often.  The surrounding desert is prime for LARK SPARROW, SAGE THRASHER, and of course HORNED LARKS.  Once upon a time I remember seeing BURROWING OWLS in the area, and GOLDEN EAGLES hunting on the prairie here.  IF you find yourself passing Yuba and have a day to spare, it might be worth exploring this and all the other locations at this unique and isolated state park!

Directions:
You have to make a concerted effort to reach this campground isolated on the east side of the lake.  There are numerous ways to get here, and if you are birding on the the east side of the lake the best route is to drive to the north end of the reservoir and turn right onto Old Botham Road and go east 5.7 miles.  Turn right onto Hwy 28 and go 3.4 miles.  Everything south of this point on the west side of the road within the state park boundaries is part of this hot spot.  Alternatively you could take Hwy 28 all the way from Nephi south to Levan and then continue till you pass the turn off to Painted Rocks--then as mentioned above you are in the south part of the park.

No Photo At This Time photo by Utah Birders

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Description:
 The Painted Rocks area is located on the east side of the lake off Highway 28 between Levan and Gunnison.  This area offers a large day use area, three lane concrete boat ramp, a group campsite and 41 individual campsites with covered tables.  This campground also includes tent pads, restrooms, a garbage collection point, security lighting, potable water system, dump station, and fire pits.  This campground is easily accessible off Highway 28 between Levan and Gunnison. It is controlled from one entrance station.  Day use fees are $7 and $8 for overnight camping. For what Painted Rocks lacks in habitat, it makes up for in species.  Despite being relatively low quality habitat with very few trees for migrants, the shrubsteppe and desert here have isolated the few trees enough to make them work as a trap.  There is also a juniper woodlands component bringing in a variety of birds that would otherwise not be present.

Birding:
Although this area also receives very few birders, a few intrepid individuals have built a decent species lists with just a few visits.  As with other campgrounds on the lake the list here includes a lot of waterfowl.  I would suggest including this on a separate checklist for the Yuba Lake SP (incl. Sevier Bridge Reservoir) hot spot to keep the waterbirds on the water and the land birds as part of the campground list.  Of course this is purely a recommendation and in the end birders can make their own assumptions based off what's on the lists.  VIRGINIA'S and ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER along with WESTERN TANAGER and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK have been observed during migration, while DUSKY and GRAY FLYCATCHER, JUNIPER TITMOUSE, PINYON JAY, and BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER can be found during the breeding season in the juniper.  ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER has been observed in this isolated hot spot, while LARK SPARROW and SAGE THRASHER Are typical of the shrubsteppe. Take a look at the checklist to see the waterbirds observed here, as well as various raptors which use the open hunting grounds year round.

Directions:
You have to make a concerted effort to reach this campground isolated on the east side of the lake.  There are numerous ways to get here, and if you are birding on the the east side of the lake the best route is to drive to the north end of the reservoir and turn right onto Old Botham Road and go east 5.7 miles.  Turn right onto Hwy 28 and go 3.4 miles.  Turn right and drive .2 miles before taking a slight left another .4 miles till you reach the campground. Alternatively you could take Hwy 28 all the way from Nephi south to Levan and then continue till you reach the signs for the run off on your right.

No Photo At This Time photo by Utah Birders

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Description:
The main campground on the west side of the reservoir, Oasis is a 19-unit campground with 7 overflow sites, covered group pavilions with picnic tables, a group camping area, drinking water, modern restrooms and showers, an RV sewage disposal station, loading docks, and boat launching ramp.  Accessible rest rooms, showers, electrical hookups and a campsite are available for campground patrons with special needs.  With shrubsteppe and dry hillsides surrounding the campground on 3 sides, and the reservoir on the 4th, the large and numerous deciduous trees creating a riparian area here are definitely a migrant trap.  Yuba is seldom visited by birders, but anyone traveling north or south along I-15 in the spring or fall should detour here to look for birds.

Birding:
Truth be told I have only birded here once--and at the time I mistakenly submitted a checklist for the lake--not the campground because the hot spot did not exist.  That being said the habitat is ideal for warblers, and other passerine migrants.  YELLOW WARBLER, LAZULI BUNTING, HOUSE FINCH, and BULLOCK'S ORIOLE should be present while the surrounding hill sides usually have LARK and BREWER'S SPARROW, SAGE THRASHER, and plenty of HORNED LARKS.  Really just about anything could show up here, and with some coverage the list could probably creep towards 100 species.  The reservoir can easily be scoped form here, but I suggest creating a separate checklist using the Yuba Lake SP (incl. Sevier Bridge Reservoir) hot spot since it was created specifically for the whole park.  Once there are some more checklists, I will update this to reflect what kind of birds you should see on a typical morning or afternoon here.  Birding can easily be done walking the campground roads.  The whole campground could be covered in 10 minutes, and with an hour you could thoroughly find all the birds using the area.

Directions:
From points north of Scipio, Utah take I-15 exit 202 go east soon turning south and follow the road 1.9 miles on Old State Route 78.  You'll arrive at the reservoir on your left and keep going straight another 2.1 miles on County Road till you reach the campground on your left. From points south of Scipio the campground can be reached by taking I-15 exit 188 west bound towards the gas station/rest stop.  Turn right onto the Frontage Road and continue 3.9 miles.  Turn right going under the freeway staying straight  and continuing 5.9 miles crossing the dam at the reservoir you'll continue another .4 miles till you reach the campground on your right.

Antelope Island photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
So one of the major issues with eBird is how and when hot spots were created.  For Antelope Island State Park there is an overarching location for the entire park including the causeway.  There is also this location which is supposed to be any location on the island.  Originally there were only 3 spots for the park--one for the causeway, one for the island, and one for the ranch.  But over the years, trying to be more precise with the data the various locations for the park have popped up.  On the island there are now the following locations:

Marina
Visitor Center & Loop Road
Lady Finger Point
White Rock Bay
Road to Garr Ranch
Garr Ranch
South
Backcountry (incl. Frary Peak Trail)

These are all very specific locations, some with habitat only found at said locations, while others have overlapping habitats, and in some cases are right next to each other.  Many birders who just use eBird to keep lists will create just one checklist for their entire visit to the island and put it on either the causeway, the island location, or the state park location.  Some will even put it on one of the other specific locations skewing the data slightly for those spots.  It is all confusing and there is no great solution for the near future.  But looking at it from this perspective will hopefully help.  The causeway is a very different habitat from anywhere on the island, and the birds you're going to see are very different.  Separating your causeway list from the island list will help at a basic level.  Keeping lists for even more specific locations will make the data even better.  Birding wise, I'm not going to talk about anything else for this location, as there is lots of information on those pages I mentioned above.  At a minimum if you want to use this spot try to do it separately from the causeway to help keep things clean.

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.  After paying an entrance fee continue about 6 miles across the causeway to the island. For specific directions to locations on the island see pages for the above listed hot spots.

Antelope Island from the South from Google Street View

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Description:
This hot spot location is a little confusing as it appears quite a few people use it for checklists anywhere south of the loop road and White Rock Bay.  Although technically the Road to Garr Ranch and the actual ranch are on the south part of the island, the hot spot was created technically to list birds south of Garr Ranch. But others, also use it in the mountains, and on the trails in the back country of the island.  It may be worth splitting this location into "South of Garr Ranch" as well as "Backcountry" to be more specific and clean things up.  The habitat in these 2 areas is very different.  South of the ranch the habitat mirrors that of the road to Garr Ranch where primarily grasslands and mixed shrubsteppe make up the majority of the habitat.  Some riparian habitat around springs is present, while the dry lake bed is visible from the island.  The backcountry differs in that near the mountain range base it includes the above mentioned habitats, but is primarily more canyon based, with some mixed oak woodlands in the canyons  Several springs in the back country actually create quite impressive riparian habitats in said canyons.  The backcountry generally follows a spine down the west side of the island but is more centrally based and doesn't really reach the real south end.

Birding:
For the past few years Steve and Cindy Sommerfeld have conducted a monthly bird survey and a good portion of it has focused on south of Garr Ranch creating a great list of at least 100 species occurring there.  Unfortunately for most birders the area is hard to access, or closed all together. For right now I will be leaving this open to add details later.

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.  After paying an entrance fee continue about 6 miles across the causeway to the island. At the sign where the road splits stay left and continue up the hill till you see the turn off on your left to Garr Ranch.  Turn left and follow this road 10.6 miles.  The road ends here at parking areas for Garr Ranch on your left, and for some of the back country trails to the south on your right.

Park HQ and Corrals from Bing Birds Eye View

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Description:
White Rock Bay is a campground on the north end of Antelope Island.  The exposed land here is predominantly grassland with mixed shrubsteppe.  Shoreline is also visible from here.  The Buffalo Corrals are used for the annual Buffalo Roundup and are located just behind the park offices.  The habitat here is like a "farm" given the corrals, stables, etc.  There is also a hay barn.  The surrounding habitat is predominantly grassland and shrubsteppe..  The area is generally open year round, although a gate to the corral area is occasionally locked.  Lots of visitors make their way here year round thinking they will see Buffalo.  You do occasionally see them along the road here, but they are only in the corrals during the roundup.

Birding:
Birding wise there are a couple birds found here that draw birders.  Namely both BARN OWL and GREAT HORNED OWL nest in the hay barn near the corrals.  Please if you go to see these birds DO NOT GO IN TO THE BARN!  Stay on the perimeter viewing form your vehicle, or as far out as you can to give the birds space.  They have been using this site for years and have grown accustomed to visitors, so please respect the space and keep this a reliable spot for these species for years to come.  SAY'S PHOEBE are often seen here during the warmer months along with SAGE THRASHER, BREWER'S SPARROW, and LARK SPARROW.  HORNED LARK can be found year round along with WESTERN MEADOWLARK.  The most notable sighting in the area was from April 2013 when a pair of MOUNTAIN PLOVER showed up near the campground for 2 days. Just going to show you never know what might turn up, even in the most likely of places.

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.  After paying an entrance fee continue about 6 miles across the causeway to the island. At the sign where the road splits stay left and continue south for 1.6 miles till you reach a turn off on your left to the White Rock Bay.  Turn here and continue straight.  There will be a turn to your right after about 100'--this goes to the campground.  If you want to go to the corrals don't turn and instead continue straight till you reach the park offices.  Continue around the south side of the offices following the road.  It will hit a fence after about 150 yards.  To the left are the corrals, and a small dirt road to the right leads to the barn.

Lady Finger Point from Google Street View

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Description:
Lady Finger Point is a spit of land jutting out of the northwest edge of Antelope Island on the Great Salt Lake.  The point is a primarily barren rock with sparse shrubsteppe, and shoreline on 3 sides.  The point is a popular trail on the island and a quick walk from the parking area.  The parking area is along the Visitor Center and Loop Road.

Birding:
There are a couple of birds that birders typically visit this area for. Most notably is the resident population of CHUKAR that are often seen around the visitor center and specifically on Lady Finger Point.  This is the most reliable location in Utah for this species, and perhaps one of the best in the United States.  It can be found year round, usually in the rocky areas, but also passing between in the shrubsteppe.  While looking for this game bird you often will hear or come across ROCK WRENS, LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE, WESTERN MEADOWLARK, and HORNED LARK.  During the summer months BREWER'S and LARK SPARROW can be found regularly, while SAGE THRASHER and in recent years NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD have been fairly common here.  SAGEBRUSH SPARROW has been reported sporadically from here. On the point CANYON and BEWICK'S WREN have also been found, while various waterbirds are often observed from the point, including DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT and GREAT BLUE HERON which are often seen on Egg Island from here.

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.  After paying an entrance fee continue about 6 miles across the causeway to the island. At the sign where the road splits if you go right you will be on the loop road to the visitor center.  After a few hundred yards there will be a turn out to a parking area on your right.  This is the parking area for Lady Finger Point to the west.

Loop Road from Google Street View

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Description:
The loop road begins when you reach the island. Typically for birding purposes you will want to go to the right at the large sign where the road splits.  From here the road passes through mostly shrubsteppe as it heads west till you reach a pull off at Lady Finger Point.  Lady Finger Point is also a hot spot in eBird and more location can be found on its location page.  The road loops back to the south east here passing through open grassland with mixed shrubsteppe and quite a few exposed rocks.  The Visitor Center rises to your left and can be reached by taking the road up to it.  The habitat surrounding the visitor center is the same, with more exposed rock.  Heading south the habitat is all open grassland and mixed shrubsteppe as you head south along the large beach to your west here.  Imported sand was brought in hoping to make a great beach atmosphere before the lake started receding.  The road eventually turns east and heads across open grasslands before coming to a T intersection.  Going right will take you to the White Rock Bay & Corrals hot spot, or going left will take you back to the north where you can access the Road to Garr Ranch, and Garr Ranch, as well as the Marina, the Causeway, and the start of the loop road again.

Birding:
There are a couple of birds that birders typically visit this area for. Most notably is the resident population of CHUKAR that are often seen around the visitor center, as well as the north part of the loop road.  This is the most reliable location in Utah for this species, and perhaps one of the best in the United States.  It can be found year round, usually in the rocky areas, but also passing between in the shrubsteppe.  While looking for this game bird you often will hear or come across ROCK WRENS, LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE, WESTERN MEADOWLARK, and HORNED LARK.  During the summer months BREWER'S and LARK SPARROW can be found regularly, while SAGE THRASHER and in recent years NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD have been fairly common here.  SAGEBRUSH SPARROW has been reported sporadically from here, usually near Lady Finger Point.  Further south where the grasslands open up there are several BURROWING OWL burrows where you can usually see these birds from March through the fall.  LONG-BILLED CURLEW are often seen in the fields here.  It's not uncommon to see waterbirds passing over the island, so cormorants, gulls, pelicans, and herons often seen while birding this area.  Feeders at the visitor center have attracted a variety of species in the winter months, including GRAY-CROWNED ROSY-FINCH and HARRIS'S SPARROW. In May 2013 a LARK BUNTING was seen on the hillside north of here. No trip to the island is complete without a drive through the loop--you will undoubtedly snag a couple of the main island targets here where photo opportunities are abound since many of the birds have become quite accustomed to the attention.

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.  After paying an entrance fee continue about 6 miles across the causeway to the island. At the sign where the road splits if you go right you will be on the loop which comes back to this sign if you drive the whole loop.

Antelope Island Marina from Google Street View

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Description:
The marina at Antelope Island State Park is used to launch various craft on to the Great Salt Lake.  Most use is by the state as well as sailors launching private sail boats.  The marina has also been used by a minority of "hunters" who have taken to the practice of stalking birding listservs to attempt to hunt the rare ocean species of waterfowl that over winter here in small numbers.  Due to the drying up of the lake the marina sees far less usage then in former years.  The small marina has jetties/breakwalls on the north and west sides, while the causeway provides the break to the east.  To the south is the island with a decent amount of shrubsteppe habitat in direct view of the marina.  The north jetty can be walked while you can drive the west jetty via the south side of the parking lot at the marina.  Just follow the dirt road as it loops to the west.   The habitat at the marina is shrubsteppe as well as disturbed land, with a beach on the north side of the north jetty facing out.  Mud flats inside the jetties, and on the outside provide additional shorebird habitat.  The open water of the Great Salt Lake to the north and the west is the primary habitat at this location.

Birding:
As with several locations on the island, the marina isn't a major birding destination, but a small part of the great birding on the island.  Scanning the shoreline inside the jetties, and on the beach to the north can turn up shorebirds in the spring and fall including RED-NECKED and WILSON'S PHALAROPE.  The beach here is a spot where RED PHALAROPE has been seen historically and is always worth checking.  Small flocks of WESTERN SANDPIPER are occasionally seen sheltering here, and have had BAIRD'S and SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS mixed in. During the winter months SNOW BUNTING has been reported along the west jetty.  Sea ducks like HARLEQUIN DUCK, LONG-TAILED DUCK, SURF, WHITE-WINGED, and BLACK SCOTER have all been observed inside the breakwater as well as to the north from the jetties. Also during the winter look to the brushy areas south of the marina for AMERICAN TREE SPARROW.  In spring and summer breeding RED-WINGED BLACKBIRDS can be seen and heard in the same area.  In May 2013 a LARK BUNTING was seen just up hill from the marina to the south.  One potential for the area that isn't often taken advantage of is a lake watch.  The area on the jetty provides a great vantage point looking north and to see birds following the causeway then heading west around the island in stormy weather.  A LONG-TAILED JAEGER in September 2014 was seen in this general area and these types of rare finds probably pass the island annually going unnoticed as they cruise out over the open water.

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.  After paying an entrance fee continue about 6 miles across the causeway to the island. The marina will be on your right when you arrive.

Road to Garr Ranch from Google Street View

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Description:
The road to Garr Ranch is a 10.6 mile paved road that passes through mostly open grassland and shrubsteppe along the east side of Antelope Island heading north to south.  The open habitat passes several springs where russian olive grows are prevalent.  Bison can be see most of the year along this road and despite their calm appearance have killed people who tried to get to close.  Everything off the road unless marked as a trail is closed to visitors, so stay on the road or in designated pull offs to avoid being ticketed.

Birding:
In general you don't just come here to bird the road to Garr Ranch.  You are here because you are going to Garr Ranch--so of course it is worth taking the time to take note of the birds along the way.  Not surprisingly some good stuff does show up along the route, and there are even a few specialty birds that are relatively easy to find here.  The exact number of species occurring along the road is hard top determine--the number in eBird is too high and includes a lot of lists that are obviously from the causeway, the ranch, or the entire island (because Red Knot and Sanderling probably aren't going to be seen here).  With that being said the most notable species seen along this route is the GRASSHOPPER SPARROW which can be found at several locations along the road.  Often just listening in large grassland patches will produce the species in April or May.  This stretch has become the go to place for this species in Utah.  BURROWING OWL, CHUKAR, LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE, SAGE THRASHER, and ROCK WREN are all seen regularly along the route in the right season.  NORTHERN SHRIKE are often seen here in the winter months. Raptors hunt the open lands here year round with both PEREGRINE and PRAIRIE FALCON being seen sporadically.  During the winter ROUGH-LEGGED HAWKS can usually be seen during the drive.  There are some shorebirds that are actually quite common here during the breeding season.  WILLET and LONG-BILLED CURLEW are usually seen and hear right on the road edges.  LONG-EARED, SHORT_EARED, and BARN OWL are reported infrequently along the road; and all three have been known to roost in russian olive patches that are off limits to visitors.  BLUE GROSBEAK are occasionally seen in the summer months at some of these patches, and during migration just about anything could turn up.  ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER, COMMON REDPOLL, and LARK BUNTING have all been seen on this 10 mile stretch.  BREWER'S SPARROW, LARK SPARROW, HORNED LARK, and WESTERN MEADOWLARK will be some of the most common birds you see an here all spring and early summer.  The best way to go birding along the road is to stop at the pullouts, overlooks, and spots near springs and tree patches and spend a few minutes listening and watching.  Also keeping your eyes out while your drive for stuff darting across the road, or soaring overhead.

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.  After paying an entrance fee continue about 6 miles across the causeway to the island. At the sign where the road splits stay left and continue up the hill till you see the turn off on your left to Garr Ranch.  Turn left and your are on the road to Garr Ranch, which goes 10.6 miles to the ranch.

Garr Ranch from Google Maps Contributor

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Description:
The Fielding Garr Ranch is a ranch located on the southeastern portion of Antelope Island State Park at Garr Springs which is one of the strongest and most consistent springs of the 40 known springs on the island.  The ranch was initially established in 1848, the year after the first Mormon pioneers arrived in Utah.  This location is no secret to birders who have been coming here for decades due to the migrant trap conditions the ranch creates.  With its location jutting out on the east side of the island, the large stand of cottonwoods, russian olives, and various other deciduous trees is an oasis on the island and the Great Salt Lake.  The springs at the main ranch are surrounded by thick riparian habitat with wetland habitat on the east side.  To the north and west are dry hillsides, grassland, and shrubsteppe.  To the south are large agricultural fields with 2 more springs surrounded by small patches of russian olive as well.  A large picnic area just south of the parking lot as a huge lawn with no undergrowth, but a great canopy with trees over 60' tall.  Between the main spring and the springs to the south is a large wild field that has had a big brush pile in the center for a number of years.  The field is lined around the edges by trees which provide easy viewing.  East of the small wetland on the edge of the ranch are vast dry lakebed where the Great Salt Lake formerly came to the shores of the island.

Birding:
Birding on Antelope Island during the spring or fall mean a visit to Fielding Garr Ranch, referred to by birders as just "Garr Ranch". This migrant trap has had no shortage of rarities of the years and is as a reliable place as it comes for various migrants.  The trap quality of the location has had its share of fallouts and when birding here you never know what you might find. Over 200 species have been recorded at the ranch--the most famous of which has been a long staying pair of GREAT HORNED OWL that have nested here year after year.  The ranch staff takes great pride in sharing this info with birders and non birders alike. Interestingly the ranch has played host to quite a few owl species with BARN and LONG-EARED OWL also showing up every once in a while.  Both FLAMMULATED OWL and NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL have been observed during fall migration on multiple occasions.  But the owls aren't the reason birders come here--its the passerine species.  EMPIDONAX FLYCATCHERS are always a treat with all 5 of the regularly occurring Utah species present in spring and fall for side by side study.  LEAST FLYCATCHER has shown up here as well--while ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER and EASTERN PHOEBE although not empids have been seen as well.  The SOLITARY VIREO complex is also a fall favorite here with CASSIN'S VIREO being a regular migrant--this may be the single best location for this species in Utah.  With those Cassin's there have been several BLUE-HEADED VIREO.  This is often a complex identification with the range of Cassin's Vireo's here coming from almost Plumbeous to basically Blue-headed.  Many more Blue-headed are reported than have actually been documented.  VEERY has been seen here, while VARIED THRUSH is reported with some frequency; perhaps not annually but pretty close to it.  The star of the passerine show is no surprise though--its the wood warblers. With at least 21 species reported here the list is impressive.  Big flights in the fall of WILSON'S WARBLER make it an easy find here.  While NASHVILLE WARBLER is all but guaranteed in late August and early September.  TOWNSEND'S WARBLER are usually findable here in the fall as well, all the way into October.  The springs attract NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH most years in the spring and the fall making it the most reliable location in Utah for this species.  AMERICAN REDSTART are occasional as are BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER.  The rarest of the bunch include sightings of: TENNESSEE, MAGNOLIA, BLACKPOLL, BLACK-THROATED BLUE, YELLOW-THROATED, and CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLERS.  Other colorful passerine species have also popped up from time to time with ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK being recorded several times, along with INDIGO BUNTING. One of the best birds to show up was a PAINTED BUNTING that showed well over 5 days in 2013.

Birding here is easy. Strolling through the grounds there is always something to look at.  AN easy way to bird is starting at the parking area and birding the trees to the northeast along the back of the stables.  These open trees often have flycatchers and warblers during migration. Working south walk along the main entrance south of the barn towards the ranch house.  There are usually hummingbird feeders here in the fall which attract the 4 regularly occurring migrants in August and early September.  RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD is often a constant this time of yeah and the feeders allow close views.  A RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD was photographed here in 2010 visiting the feeders.  From the house walk east past the spring house through the gate towards the wet areas. At the gate look right and there should be a large bird feeder although it seems to rarely have feed in it.  On your left is a usually damp "stream bed" where Waterthrush are occasionally seen.  Straight ahead is a small pond that runs into a mostly wetland area heading east.  Bird activity is usually quite good right here.  Walking back toward the spring house and then going south through the trees is a great spot to look for vireos and Nashville Warbler.  If you go back west around the south end of the springs the trees are very thick and birds are often zipping around high above your head here.  If you walk all the way back to the spring on the east end you might spot a VIRGINIA'S RAIL coming out of the marsh.  This is also where the GREAT HORNED OWLS often roost in the trees.  Turn around and head south along the fence line and you'll be in a large field.  The trees surrounding the field to the east and south are often good for empids and warblers, as well as WESTERN TANAGER.  The large brush pile in the field is a good spot to check in the winter for sparrows. WHITE-THROATED and "RED" FOX SPARROW have both been seen here.  Heading south through the gate its a short walk to the next set of springs where waterthrush tend to show up from time to time as well.  You can continue further south to the last spring as well before turning around and heading back to the field with the brush pile.  Often in the northwest corner near the ranch house there are LARK and other SPARROWS depending on what time of year you visit.  Head into the picnic area and you can bird the trees here fairly quickly.  RED-EYED VIREO has been seen here on several occasions.  You're back at the entrance and if you've been thorough you've probably seen most of the birds here.

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.  After paying an entrance fee continue about 6 miles across the causeway to the island. At the sign where the road splits stay left and continue up the hill till you see the turn off on your left to Garr Ranch.  Turn left and follow this road 10.6 miles.  Garr Ranch will be on your left when you arrive; pull into the parking area and you're there.

Antelope Island photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
This hot spot was created to fill a niche missing in eBird data--that being specifically form the mountain range going down the center of the island.  This backcountry is only accessible via trails by, foot, bike and horse; and many locations are still closed to the public.  The Frary Peak Trail is one of the most used trails in the park so data from that location will definitely be helpful.  The terrain is mostly dry hillsides, slopes, and rocky canyons.  There is some grassland and shrubsteppe habitat, as well as small springs in various locations with riparian habitat.  Some oak and juniper woodlands exist as well.  I have never been in the back country to know the true extent of what habitat may be found so will be reaching out to others in hopes of filling this gap

Birding:
Birds to be expected in the drier rocky areas and grassland areas are typical of elsewhere on the island and include ROCK WREN, CHUKAR, and BURROWING OWL.  LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE can be found year round while NORTHERN SHRIKE are present during the winter.  Raptors hunting over the open land here include GOLDEN EAGLE and both PEREGRINE and PRAIRIE FALCON year round.  In the winter ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK replace the SWAINSON'S HAWKS found in the summer.  Flocks of GRAY-CROWNED ROSY-FINCHES with BLACK ROSY-FINCHES mixed in have been reported in the winter; while SAGE THRASHER, LARK SPARROW, and BREWER'S SPARROW are usually found in the sagebrush areas during the breeding season.  Check out the Antelope Island Trails map, or ask for a map when you arrive at the gate to the park for more information!

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.  After paying an entrance fee continue 6 miles across the causeway to the island.  Depending on where you want to bird in the backcountry there are various access points so please consult a map from the entrance station.

East Canyon Reservoir from Google Street View

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Description:
East Canyon Reservoir is a 608 acre lake sitting in East Canyon State Park, open year round.  The park sits at about 5,700' in elevation in a valley/canyon in the Wasatch Mountains.  The reservoir is mostly surrounded by shrubsteppe, with some cliffs, and some conifer and other habitat.  SR-65 follows east side of the south leg, and the south side of the east leg, while SR-66 follows the north shore to the dam in the northwest corner.  There is a campground and picnic area where a day use fee is imposed.

Birding:
The reservoir is ice free usually form March through November and during spring and fall migration it is a popular birding location to look for migrating divers and waterfowl.  COMMON LOON and WESTERN GREBE are both common here during migration.  HORNED GREBE are seen occasionally while PACIFIC LOON is recorded almost annually.  RED-THROATED LOON have been reported on multiple occasions as have RED-NECKED GREBE. Diving ducks like COMMON MERGANSER and HOODED MERGANSER can often be found, and all 3 SCOTERS and LONG-TAILED DUCK have been recorded..  BALD EAGLE are a common sight during the late fall through spring here.  NORTHERN SHRIKE are infrequently encountered along SR-65.  On September 10, 1981 there was a reported Parakeet Auklet.  However unlikely this sounds, the observer described the birds perfectly.  This unprecedented report is generally regarded as a mis-identification of a scoter, grebe, or some other waterbird--but was worth mentioning here due to its magnitude.

Directions:
The reservoir can be reached from 3 different directions, via SR-65 from the south and the northeast, and from SR-66 from the northwest.  The most direct route from Salt Lake is to take I-80 east bound and take exit 134 north on to SR-65 towards East Canyon. It's about 15 miles to the reservoir, on your left.  This road is closed during the winter.

Yuba State Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Yuba State Park is comprised of a number of specific birding locations that include: Sevier Bridge Reservoir, Oasis Campground, Painted Rocks, and the Yuba Lake at the South End.  The main feature of the park is Sevier Bridge Reservoir, the easiest section of the lake to look for birds.  The surrounding hills are mostly shrubsteppe with some Pinyon-Juniper habitat as well.  The Oasis Campground is a migrant trap in an otherwise treeless landscape.

Birding:
COMMON LOON and rafts of WESTERN GREBES are often seen here during migration.  Decent numbers of waterfowl use the lake, with divers in the deeper areas, and lots of dabblers in the shallows.  The shrubsteppe surrounding hill are good for SAGE THRASHER, LARK SPARROW, BREWER'S SPARROW, HORNED LARK, and occasionally VESPER SPARROW.  ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER, PINYON JAY, and BEWICK'S WREN have all been observed here.  The riparian areas attract a variety of migrants, including the usual warblers, WESTERN TANAGER, empids, and other songbirds.  Notable sightings form here include a November TRUMPETER SWAN and PACIFIC LOON.

Directions:
From I-15 north of Scipio, take Exit 202 South/East about 2 miles to the reservoir on your left.  You can continue south along the west side of the lake, or go east to points on the north and east side of the reservoir. Alternatively, from the south and the town of Scipio, take I-15 exit 188 and go west/north towards the gas station.  Turn right on to the Frontage Road and go 3.9 miles.  There will be "underpass"  to your right that goes under I-15, turn here and go 5.7 miles to the reservoir on your right.

Antelope Island Causeway from Google Street View

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Description:
The Antelope Island Causeway is the lead in to Antelope Island State Park.  The 6 mile causeway is lined by the Great Salt Lake.  The first several miles in recent years have been dry on the south side, and dry and/or brackish water on the north side.  After the first bridge shallow water and mudflats appear on both sides of the causeway, eventually the water reaches the shore of the causeway for the remainder of the road to the island.  The 2nd bridge near the island had deeper water that flows rapidly from the south side into the north.   Besides the the primary habitat mentioned above the road is lined with short grass and some shrubs including Rabbit Brush that provide additional habitat for some prairie birds.

Birding:
The causeway is the go to spot for many birders week in and week out.  It has produced every species of shorebird recorded in Utah at least once.  The largest migrant flocks of WILSON'S PHALAROPE come through each July, numbering in the 100,000's.  Smaller numbers of RED-NECKED PHALAROPE also move through in spring and fall.  There are several records of RED PHALAROPE as well.  Large numbers of peeps--mainly WESTERN SANDPIPER come through, mixing in lesser numbers of birds that would otherwise be rare in Utah, including: SEMIPALMATED, PECTORAL, and BAIRD'S SANDPIPERS, DUNLIN, RED KNOT, and SANDERLING.  But those birds are jsut the tip of the iceberg.  Almost annually other shorebirds are recorded here including: AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVER, RUDDY TURNSTONE, WHIMBREL, and SEMIPALMATED PLOVER.  This congregation of shorebirds leads to the real rare stuff, including: CURLEW SANDPIPER, RUFF, WANDERLING TATTLER, BUFF-BREASTED and WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER, and the states only SHARP-TAILED SANDPIPER.  The list goes on and on.  But the spring and fall shorebird migration is augmented by the winter sea ducks that show up here.  All 3 SCOTERS and LONG-TAILED DUCK are usually recorded yearly as well.  Gulls are a sight here year round.  During the breeding season 1,000's of California and FRANKLIN'S GULLS line the causeway.  Each fall 100's and sometimes upwards of 1,000 BONAPARTE'S GULLS pass through.  Along with these tiny gulls, the occasional SABINE'S GULL is found and there are several records of both LITTLE GULL and BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE.  The causeway has also had several sighings of both PARASITIC and POMARINE JAEGER. The winter is also a good time to look for rare northern songbirds like SNOW BUNTING and LAPLAND LONGSPUR along the edges of the road.  There was a one day wonder SNOWY OWL here on December 2, 2011--a bird many suspect should show up at this location more often.  If you are going to be in Salt Lake City during the fall, winter, or spring, and have a day or even a half day, the causeway is the one place most birders would recommend you must visit.

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.

Antelope Island photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Antelope Island State Park is a 28,800-acre park, surrounded by the Great Salt Lake, and open year round.  The northern portion of the island is mostly grasslands and shrubsteppe as well as arid hillsides. The southern portion has a small mountain range that has some coniferous and aspen forest. There are also numerous springs on the island that provide riparian habitat.  The most notable is at Fielding Garr Ranch, which is one of the most prolific migrant traps in Utah. On the island are now the following locations in eBird:

Antelope Island (island only)
Marina
Visitor Center & Loop Road
Lady Finger Point
White Rock Bay
Road to Garr Ranch
Garr Ranch
South
Backcountry (incl. Frary Peak Trail)

But the most notable birding location in the park is The Causeway, a 6 mile road connecting the mainland to the north end of the island.  Being a state park there is a daily or annual fee to enter, as well as the Davis County Causeway fee specific to this park.

Birding:
Antelope Island is the most popular birding destination in Utah.  Utah birders flock to the causeway and island almost every week of the year in search of birds.  The causeway is world renowned for the enormous flocks of shorebirds, specifically WILSON'S PHALAROPE, and EARED GREBES that can be found here during migration.  Gulls, waterfowl, divers, and waders can all be found along various stretches of the causeway.  More information about the specifics can be read on the causeway page.  The island is a great location to see CHUKAR, BURROWING OWL, ROCK WREN, SAGE THRASHER, WESTERN MEADOWLARK, and LARK SPARROW during various times of year.  LONG-EARED, SHORT-EARED, GREAT HORNED, and BARN OWL are also permanent residents here.  Garr Ranch has an impressive list of songbird migrants.  It's remote location on the southeast side of the island is literally an oasis in a salty desert. You can read more about birding specific locations at the park through the links above!

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.  After paying an entrance fee continue 6 miles across the causeway to the island.

Gunlock Reservoir photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Gunlock State Park is home to Gunlock Reservoir, a 266-acre reservoir. The park is located approximately 15 miles northwest of St George. It is a primitive area and there are no facilities aside from bathrooms. The park offers camping, swimming, boating, and fishing.  There are view points over the reservoir at the damn, from the campgrounds, and several spots near the inlet.  A scope is useful for scanning the lake.  There are some trees around the reservoir, but it is mostly arid hillsides.  From the inlet up river along the Santa Clara river is excellent riparian habitat.  Below the dam the Santa Clara River also provides excellent riparian habitat as well.  Desert/Black willow and Fremont Cottonwood are the primary deciduous tree types present.

Birding:
The reservoir is used by migrant waterfowl and diving birds and can be fairly productive at the right time.  There are often numerous COMMON LOON on the water in late March and November.  As of recent years there have been free flying MUTE SWAN present near the inlet quite often.  Occasionally LONG-TAILED DUCK and Scoters show up during the winter months. In 2003 a REDDISH EGRET spent about a month at the lake.  Various shorebirds may be present in spring and fall and there is a record for RED PHALAROPE here as well.  SABINE'S GULL occasionally use the waterway during fall migration.  The riparian area above the reservoir is known for nesting COMMON BLACK-HAWKS, SUMMER TANAGER, LUCY'S WARBLER and has had BROWN-CRESTED FLYCATCHER.  The riparian stretch below the dam also hosts some of the same species as above and acts as a decent migrant trap during migration.  The arid hillsides around the reservoir are inhabited by BLACK-THROATED SPARROW and more notably, RUFOUS-CROWNED SPARROW.  The canyon walls play host to both CANYON and ROCK WREN, as well as WHITE-THROATED SWIFT.  During spring migration in early May, VAUX'S SWIFTS have been observed over the dam on multiple occasions.

Directions:
From I-15 in St. George, take exit 6 at Bluff Street and go north 3 miles to Sunset Boulevard.  Turn left and stay on Hwy 91 for 11 miles to the fork.  Take the right fork and go another 5.3 miles to the state park, which will be on your left.