by: Nora Noonan
I'm usually one to vote for sunshine, warmer temperatures, and pretty much any excuse to leave my winter coat in the closet. But I'll admit, winter around Lake Red Rock has a pretty incredible way of making a case for itself.
The Lake Red Rock area is recognized by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources as one of Iowa's coveted eagle sanctuaries and critical wintering grounds, and for good reason. While bald eagles can be spotted throughout the year, winter is when things really come alive.
This fall, I was taking a walk around the Horns Ferry Bridge area when I happened to look up and spot a bald eagle enjoying a freshly caught fish. (Yes, I managed to get a photo, too!) Not a bad afternoon walk, if you ask me.
It's moments like these that remind me how much wildlife we have right here in Marion County. And while I might prefer a sunny fall afternoon over a freezing winter morning, the eagle activity around Lake Red Rock during the colder months is something worth bundling up for.
So, what's the big draw? The Red Rock Dam.
The open water below and around the dam creates ideal fishing opportunities for bald eagles, especially during the winter when much of the surrounding water freezes over. With fish readily available in these areas, eagles gather near the dam to hunt, making it one of the best places in Iowa to watch these incredible birds.
In fact, people travel from the Des Moines metro and beyond just to catch a glimpse of them through their camera lenses. And if you're going to make the trip, you'll want to bring yours, too!
Here are a few places to start:
Howell Station Recreation Area
Located near the Red Rock Dam, Howell Station is a great place to watch for eagles near the open water. Keep an eye out for birds soaring overhead, perched in nearby trees, or swooping down toward the water for their next meal. Don't forget your camera!
Another great spot near the dam, Fifield offers beautiful views and opportunities to watch eagles in their natural habitat. Take a little time to look around, especially near the water. You might be surprised by how many you spot.
I'll admit, I'm a little partial to this one after my own eagle sighting! Horns Ferry is a great place to get outside, enjoy the Des Moines River scenery, and keep an eye out for wildlife. Whether you're out for a walk or hoping to catch an eagle on camera, it's worth adding to your list.
You don't have to be a professional birdwatcher to enjoy eagle watching. In fact, you don't even need to know much about birds.
A few things to keep in mind:
Bring your camera: People travel from across Central Iowa and beyond to photograph the bald eagles around Lake Red Rock. You'll want to be ready when one makes an appearance.
Pack your binoculars: Eagles don't always sit conveniently close for a photo. A little zoom can make all the difference.
Look toward the water: Especially around the Red Rock Dam, where open water provides excellent fishing opportunities.
Visit during winter: I know, I know. But this is when eagle activity really picks up around Lake Red Rock.
Give wildlife some space: Enjoy the show from a respectful distance and let the eagles do their thing.
Whether you're visiting Lake Red Rock for a weekend outdoors, taking a scenic drive, or making a dedicated trip to photograph bald eagles, there's something pretty special about seeing these birds in the wild.
