Up in northeastern Colorado lies a paradise for birdwatchers. In fact, it is not just a paradise for Colorado birdwatchers, it is an internationally famous location, and for the avid birdwatcher or bird photographer, this place will provide you with some of the best sightings in the state.
Pawnee National Grasslands is located about an hour east of Ft. Collins and holds over 193,000 acres within its boarders. For the bird enthusiast, these 193,000 acres are a bird paradise. The Grasslands host over 200 different species of birds, and they are serves as the nesting grounds for the endangered Mountain Plover.
The Lark Bunting, Colorado’s state bird, is one of the easiest birds to see on the Grasslands in the spring and summer; they will sit right out in the open along the fences and bushes.
The bluffs host nesting falcons during the summer and nesting Burrowing Owls interspersed in the prairie dog colonies.
Crow Valley Campground, located near Briggsdale, is a hot spot for birds during spring and fall migrations. Many rarities (for Colorado) are sighted here each year, as vagrant eastern species commonly end up stopping among the campgrounds trees to refuel.
Birds such as Magnolia Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, and Red-headed Woodpecker - birds rarely seen in Colorado - have been found right inside the Campground! The Campground has two birding trails, both of which offer excellent opportunities to see many beautiful species.
Pawnee National Grasslands is one of Colorado's premier nature locations, offering activities ranging from bird watching to hiking to stargazing. The Grasslands offer more than just birds: Spring is a great time for wildflower lovers, the region is home to many species of mammals and reptiles, and the clear night skies offer incredible stargazing opportunities.
The area is rich in history, museums, old graveyards, and abandoned homesteads located throughout the region. Keep an eye out for fossils and arrowheads, as many have been found here! (Keep in mind that it is illegal to remove them from the land.)
Briggsdale is the closest town to the Grasslands, but there are very few facilities there. Ault, about a half hour west, has a few restaurants, but we recommended that you bring your own food and water. Crow Valley Campground offers a place to camp, but make sure you make reservations in advance, as spots can fill up quick!
Check out the U.S. National Forest Campground Guide for more information about camping reservations, and this Pawnee National Grasslands Birdwatching Guide for photographers!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
