Discover Your Nature

Best State Parks To See Winter Wildlife

Before you start planning your summer travel, make a last-minute winter weekend getaway experiencing all that the Commonwealth has to offer at an amazing Kentucky State Park! From elk to eagles, winter is the perfect time to enjoy the still serenity and see the stunning wildlife that call these parks home.

Two male elk at Jenny Wiley State Park.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park

Out west isn’t the only place where you can see big wild game. Jenny Wiley State Resort Park in Prestonsburg, Kentucky hosts incredible guided elk tours. The largest elk herd east of the Rocky Mountains is in Kentucky, and you can experience it at Jenny Wiley State Park!

Audubon State Park Museum covered in a light dusting of white snow.

Audubon State Park by Gene Stinson

John James Audubon State Park

This unique state park and museum in Henderson, Kentucky is known for its abundant and diverse bird viewing opportunities. The world-class museum holds the world’s largest collections of John James Audubon’s art and artifacts, including authentic works from his Birds of America published paintings. Birders and wildlife photographers can view winter bird species outdoors on parks grounds, inside the bird observatory, or from a cozy overnight cabin.

A bald eagle catching lunch at Kenlake.

Kenlake State Resort Park

Another great spot bird lovers flock to is Kenlake State Resort Park in Hardin, Kentucky. One of the state park’s most popular weekends is in February during Eagle Watch Weekend. Guests board an Eagle Cruise on Kentucky Lake and can spot bald eagles, occasionally golden eagles, as well as ducks, deer, foxes, and coyotes.

 

Black Bear display at Greenbo Lake State Park.

Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

This state park in Greenup, Kentucky has absolutely beautiful winter views. In the winter, bird species such as sparrows, finches, and hawks can be spotted. With Greenbo Lake State Park’s 25 miles of trails, lots of other wildlife can been seen as well. This region of Kentucky is also known as a resident area for black bears!

 

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