Klamath County Is Home To Over 350 Bird Species.
The Klamath Basin is unmistakably bird country. It is one of the top birding locations in the nation, and is one of the largest migratory stopovers for birds in the western United States.
Birding in Klamath is a year-round activity with natural high-elevation valleys surrounded by mountains. The region contains diverse habitats from desert lakes, wetlands and rivers to rain forests along the edges of the Cascade Mountain range making this area a birder’s paradise.
As a major waterfowl and wetland species nesting site, and stopover and wintering areas for various species, the Klamath Basin is located along the Pacific Flyway, the largest flyway in North America. In winter, you are likely to view the largest concentration of Bald Eagles in the lower 48 states.
You may see Tundra Swans, Snow Geese, Canada Geese, egrets, herons, hawks, owls, grebes, and many more species at one or more of the six National Wildlife Refuges in our area, or many other birding hotspots in Klamath County. Be sure to check out our birding resources to help you plan your trip and see real-time birding recommendations.
National Wildlife Refuges
Klamath County in southern Oregon is home to six national wildlife refuges, each offering a unique and diverse range of wildlife habitats and recreational opportunities. These refuges are part of the larger Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex and cover over 200,000 acres of land.
The Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge is the largest of the six and provides important habitat for migratory birds such as snow geese and sandhill cranes. Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge was the first national wildlife refuge established in the United States and is home to over 200 species of birds, including bald eagles and peregrine falcons.
Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge is known for its wetlands and is a popular spot for bird watching and hunting. Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a small refuge with a unique, natural volcanic lake that provides habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife. Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a seasonal refuge that provides important breeding habitat for waterfowl and other birds, though closed to public access.
Finally, Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is a high elevation marsh that is home to a variety of waterfowl and other birds, as well as mammals such as black bears and mountain lions. Together, these six national wildlife refuges in Klamath County offer visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty and diversity of southern Oregon.
Birding Hotspots
- Klamath Wildlife Area, Miller Island
- Putnam Point
- Wood River Wetland
- Link River Trail
- Wingwatchers Lake Ewauna Nature Trail
- Moore Park Nature Trail
- Eagle Ridge/Shoalwater Bay
- Veteran’s Park
- Running Y Resort – Skillet Handle Trail
- View more Top Birding Hotspots and real time bird counts in Klamath County at ebird.org
Guided Birding Adventures
- ROE Outfitters is your gateway to adventure in Southern Oregon. We’ve been guiding families and friends on the rivers, lakes and through the forests and fields of this region since 1984. We consider it a privilege to share in your adventure to Southern Oregon and we are excited to introduce you to all that we love and admire about the area.
- Lonesome Duck for World Class Birding and Wildlife Watching: Lonesome Duck is a nature lover’s dream. Bird watching is a major attraction. Lonesome Duck Ranch is located near the north end of the Klamath Basin along the Pacific Flyway. The ranch itself is a great birding destination and nestled in the sagebrush and Ponderosa along the beautiful Williamson River.
- Sky Lakes Wilderness Adventures offers unique birding kayak tours for nature enthusiasts, providing an up-close experience with various bird species in their natural habitat.
- View more birding guides here.
