Lake Henry
Lake Henry is a jewel of a birding spot. The lake and its shore attract large concentrations of waterbirds, especially in migration and winter. Look for American White Pelican, herons, cormorants, gulls and terns. In migration, look for shorebirds including Sanderling and Willet. Burrowing Owls nest in the large prairie dog town along the entrance road. If you are up for a hike of nearly a mile, you can walk north from the west end of the dam to an excellent grove of trees that often attracts migrant landbirds, including many rare eastern warblers and large numbers of sparrows. The area north of the gate is private property, but the owner allows access to birders. In addition to birds, animals including pronghorns, coyotes, and foxes may be seen here. Note: do NOT drive the dam road if it has rained recently.
Restrictions: Most roads inaccessible when wet; be aware of hunters in season (mid-August throuh the end of December)
County: Crowley
Directions: From the junction of CO 71 and CO 96 on the east side of Ordway, go two miles east on Highway 96 to CR 20 and turn left (north; sign for Lake Henry). The parking lot is about a mile and a half north. The dam is northwest of the parking lot.
Habitat: Pond/Lake/Reservoir, Grassland/Prairie, Lowland Riparian, Marsh, Tamarisk
Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours:
Ownership: Crowley County
Admission or Fees: Free
Parking: Gravel parking area
Lodging: Primitive camping along the shoreline, hotel in Ordway, bed and breakast at Sugar City
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car
Delorme: 98 C3
ROC: 123 F1-F2
Latitude: 38.2508
Longitude: -103.710244
Visit the Website for Lake Henry »
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspots?hs=L131615&yr=all&m=