Written by Terrance Davis
Terrance writes for The White Oak Inn, highlighting the best experiences in Ohio’s Amish Country, from events and attractions to stunning outdoor adventures.
Some of the best experiences you can have in and around Ohio’s Amish Country can be spent among the area’s diverse and stunning wildlife. Many of the region’s birdwatching sites also offer great opportunities to take in the local natural beauty. Explore a combination of forest, river, and grassland environments as you enjoy an unplugged Amish Country experience. Follow along with this blog as we take you through some of Ohio Amish Country’s best birdwatching sites and experiences.
Looking to explore all that the Amish Country has to offer? Request a free copy of our Amish Country Vacation Guide to see how you can take advantage of this charming side of the Buckeye State!
In this Blog:
- Birds You May Spot Around Knox County
- When is the Best Time to Go Birdwatching?
- Three Places to Go Birdwatching Near White Oak Inn
- Brown Family Environmental Center
- Honey Run Highlands and Waterfall
- Mohican State Park and State Forest
- Plan a Relaxing Nature Getaway
Birds You May Spot Around Knox County
Ohio’s Amish Country features several different types of birds with varying levels of rarity. Eastern bluebirds can be found around open fields and woodland areas, whereas Northern Cardinals are typically found all around throughout the year. Wild turkeys and pileated woodpeckers are often seen in the woods, while great blue herons can be found near rivers, lakes, and wetlands, meaning there will be both a diversity in bird species as well as environments during your excursion.
When Is the Best Time to Go Birdwatching?
Spring and fall are two of the best times to go birdwatching in Ohio’s Amish Country, as migrating birds pass through the region during these seasons. Early morning is typically the best time of day to head out, when birds are most active and easier to spot and hear. Summer also offers plenty of opportunities to see local species, while winter can be a great time to look for year-round residents such as northern cardinals and woodpeckers.
Three Places to Go Birdwatching Near White Oak Inn
Explore some of these great spots around the inn for your next birdwatching trip in Ohio’s Amish Country. Along with great looks at local wildlife, these spots will also give you a good taste of the surrounding natural environments in this part of Ohio.
Brown Family Environmental Center
This 700-acre preserve sits right in the Kokosing River Valley, offering over 10 miles of hiking trails and many wildlife viewing opportunities, with many birds visible in this reserve’s trees. The Brown Family Environmental Center often hosts special excursions, so we suggest checking their events for upcoming birdwatching expeditions.
Honey Run Highlands Park
This nearly 350-acre nature preserve is home to a wide variety of bird species, such as the barn owl and the horned lark. Honey Run Park also had a rare sighting of a Bobwhite Quail in August 2015, making this a hotspot for seeing rarer birds. The park also features over 10 interlinking trails that offer a range of distances, suited to all experience levels, as well as a massive, 25-foot waterfall.
Mohican State Park and Mohican-Memorial State Forest
Expand your trip into the Mohican State Park and its nearby forest. See the park’s stunning river gorge and wooded areas and possibly encounter species such as Northern Parulas and American Redstarts, especially during spring and summer. While this sits about 30 minutes from the inn, this is a great place to plan a fun day trip during your Amish Country birding adventure.
Plan a Relaxing Nature Getaway
Explore the area’s wildlife with a birdwatching excursion when you make your trip to Ohio’s Amish Country. After a fun day of wildlife watching, return to your cozy and comfortable accommodations here at The White Oak Inn. Enjoy accommodations in our main house, The Ash Room, and our log cabin rentals. See all our stays today and save big when you book directly with White Oak Inn!
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