New Bird Overlook Now Open at Lake of the Woods

Bird enthusiasts or those simply looking for a quiet place to reflect have a new spot to explore at Lake of the Woods. The Gloria and Richard Rayburn Bird Overlook recently opened near the Elks Lake Pavilion, offering benches, a shaded picnic table, and educational signage at a point overlooking a bend in the Sangamon River.

According to the Champaign County Forest Preserves, the elevated overlook provides a rich habitat for birds because of its union of water, woodland and floodplain. Birds who live near water (great blue herons, wood ducks and others), in trees (pileated woodpeckers, eastern wood-pewees and others), and at ground level (barred owls, indigo buntings and others) can all be observed here.

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Signage at the overlook emphasizes that observers should be patient. Visitors are encouraged to sit down, quietly watch, and wait for birds to arrive.

The overlook is accessible by a short, paved path from dedicated parking, making it stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, as well as easily navigated on foot.