The Audubon-Designated Area in Iowa Where You’ll See Dozens of Bird Species in a Single Afternoon

You'll find the Yellow River State Forest in Allamakee County in extreme northeastern Iowa - about 40 minutes east of my hometown of Decorah. The closest communities to the forest are Harpers Ferry and Waukon Junction. This stretch of wilderness butts up against Effigy Mounds National Monument and stretches westward, from the Mississippi River bluffs, deep into the Hawkeye State's Driftless Area.

There are many things that make the Yellow River State Forest the wonderful and unique place that it is: a true rugged-wilderness feeling in a state that's often thought of as nothing but one big cornfield; the potential for peace and solitude; deep, creased valleys and soaring bluffs above rushing streams. At more than 8,500 acres, it's one of the largest remaining swaths of hardwood forest west of the Mississippi River and home to Iowa's only fire tower. And it's not only people who find this place so incredible, Yellow River State Forest has been designated a Globally Significant Bird Conservation Area - and for good reason: The Upper Iowa Audubon Society reports that more than 172 species have been recorded in the area. This means you could see literally dozens of bird species in a single day at this iconic Iowa birding area.

Perhaps best known as a haven for the threatened red-shouldered hawk, the Yellow River State Forest is a year-round home to several other species of raptors, such as barred owls, as well as those that migrate seasonally up and down the Mississippi River flyway.

Several species of woodpeckers, flickers, and sapsuckers also make their homes in the forest.

Migrating waterfowl and songbirds visit the forest every year, including several species of warblers like this ovenbird. Many spend their summers at Yellow River State Forest before heading back south when colder weather begins to set in.

The best way to explore Yellow River State Forest - whether you're birding or simply enjoying a day trip to the forest - is by getting out on its more than 50 miles of multi-use trails. This is one of the most remote parts of the state, so I recommend downloading trail maps from AllTrails Plus - which offers offline navigation when you don't have a signal - before you head out.

If you're birding, visit the Iowa Audubon Society website to see a species checklist for the area. And you'll definitely want to bring along a good pair of binoculars! What are some other awesome birding areas in Iowa? Let us know by visiting our Nominations page.