Your Guide to Bird Watching in Rim Country

Hey there, ornithophiles! If you want to build in some bird watching time while you're here in Rim Country, we're here to help! The key to a successful bird watching outing is WATER! Stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to (IYKYK). But seriously, head to one of the creeks, rivers, or lakes in the area and you'll be golden! We recently spent the day at Woods Canyon Lake and were amazed by the eagles flying overhead!

Stock image of an Eagle catching a fish from a lake

Refer to this guide from Discover Gila County for a comprehensive birding resource. Keep reading for an intro into birding the area, including where to go, what to bring, and what to look for!

Where to go:

• Green Valley Park in Payson

• Willow Springs Lake

• Woods Canyon Lake

• Rock'n River Ranch in Camp Verde

• Dead Horse Ranch in Camp Verde

• Tonto Natural Bridge

• East Verde River

• Horton Creek

What to bring:

• Binoculars

• Bird watching app or Guidebook (I recommend a book, as cell service is so spotty in Rim Country)

• A notebook for keeping track of your findings

• A good wide-brimmed hat (this will help you see more clearly through your binoculars!

Stock image of a woodpecker

Other things to note:

• Never disturb nesting areas.

• Don't feed the birds or other wildlife

• Practice "Leave no trace" principles while you're birding or doing any other nature-based activity.

• Observe birds from a distance.

Stock image of a Winter Wren

The Strawberry Inn is the perfect home base for your birding adventures! Book now. See you "berry" soon!