East Fork State Park
Bethel, OH
This large lake is located 25 miles east of Cincinnati in Clermont County. It is a popular destination for local birders.
Specialty Species:
Waterfowl: Check the lake for a chance to see many species of waterfowl during the spring, fall, and winter.
Gulls: Scan the lake for a chance to see many species of gulls during the spring, fall, and winter. Gulls also tend to congregate on the beach.
Terns: Many species of terns can be seen here during the spring, fall, and winter. Check the groups of gulls on the beach for terns that get mixed into the flock.
Shorebirds: Check the beach to see some shorebirds. Also check the end of Bethel-Concord Road when the lake is low and mudflats are exposed.
Where to Bird:
- The Beach
- The Dam area
The Beach: The beach is one of the best areas on the lake to bird. It gives you a great vantage point to view the main body of the lake. Walk along the sidewalk and scan the lake for gulls and waterfowl. Gulls and terns also tend to congregate on the beach. Search the group of Ring-billed Gulls for something a little rarer.
The Dam: The Dam is another good place to scan the lake from. This spot may allow you to see some individuals that were to far away to identify from the beach.
Hours:
6am to 11pm
Fees:
None
Accessiblity:
A few areas are accessible. The beach has paved sidewalks, and you can scan the lake from your car at the dam.
Trails:
Many miles of trails located in the park.
Non-birding Equipment Needed:
- None
Lenght of Visit:
3-4 Hours
Map:
Website:
Directions:
From the East: From the intersection of SR-221 and SR-125 in Georgetown, OH, take SR-125 west. Go 16.65 miles and turn right (east) onto Bantam Road.
From the West: From the intersection of I-275 and SR-125 in Cincinnati, OH, head east on SR-125. After 9.5 miles, turn left (east) onto Bantam Road. After 0.2 miles, turn left (north) into the park.
Address:
3294 Elklick Road
Bethel, OH 45106
513-734-4323
Nearby Birding: