3 Favorite Spots for Birdwatching Near Fayetteville, AR

Surrounded by national forests, nature reserves, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the state, the city of Fayetteville, AR, is a perfect base for enthusiasts of a vast array of outdoor activities, including birdwatching. If you are looking for the best spots to see some beautiful local birds and spend quality time with your family or a group of friends, these are some nearby destinations you should check out.

3 Favorite Spots for Birdwatching Near Fayetteville, AR

1. Roaring River State Park

Covering an area of over 4,000 acres, Roaring River State Park is one of the best spots for birding enthusiasts from all over the region. This expansive public recreation area is located in the southwestern corner of Missouri and about 55 miles northeast of Fayetteville. Getting here takes about an hour by car, driving along routes I-49 and US-62. Whether you are planning a day trip or a weekend escape, Roaring River State Park is always an excellent choice.

Established in 1928 by the Missouri Department of National Resources, Roaring River State Park is a popular spot for different outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, camping, wildlife photography, as well as fishing along the riverbank. For birders, some of the species that can be easily found here include northern shoveler, blue-winged teal, hooded merganser, common goldeneye, American wigeon, and common nighthawk. Roaring River State Park can be visited free of charge all year round.

2. Hobbs State Park

Spanning over 12,000 acres across the Benton, Carroll, and Madison counties in northwestern Arkansas, Hobbs State Park is home to a wide variety of bird species, including turkey vultures, eastern phoebe, ovenbird, Louisiana waterthrush, bald eagles, and yellow-rumped warblers. Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area regularly hosts an event titled “Birds and Breakfast,” in which birders of all ages come together and learn more about the bird species from a local expert.

Hobbs State Park is located about 30 miles northeast of downtown Fayetteville, making it possible to reach it in less than 45 minutes by car along State Highway 45. Although birding is one of the park’s most popular activities, the area is also an excellent destination for hiking, picnicking, and mountain biking. Those wanting to stay in the park can do so at one of the five designated primitive campgrounds.

3. Woolsey Wet Prairie Sanctuary

Established as a wetland mitigation site in 2006, Woolsey Wet Prairie Sanctuary is one of the most popular birding spots around Fayetteville. Covering a little under 50 acres of territory, this place is home to a vast array of bird species, including brewer’s sparrow, Cassin’s sparrow, purple gallinule, and northern shrike. Getting here from the Fayetteville city center takes about 15 minutes by car, driving west along Wedington Drive.

If you are planning to buy a new or used vehicle to check out these beautiful spots and go on road trips with your friends, don’t think twice and visit us at Crain Kia of Fayetteville! We have an extensive inventory of cars, as well as friendly sales agents who will help you find the best deal.

Image via Pixabay.com by Lancier

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