The easiest way to check this section of river is to drive Water Street making periodic stops. There is a parking on Water St at King St that will accommodate 9 or 10 vehicles. Parking is otherwise very limited, but there are several areas to pull over and park. From the east side of the river be sure to scan along the west bank beneath the cedars where a great many Mallards and other dabbling ducks often congregate, as well as around the two islands (Prince Andrew and Gordonstoun). Isabel Morris Park (just north of the community centre) is also a good place from which to scope the northern portion of the river toward Katchewanooka Lake. Another option is to view the river from the west side by driving south on Bridge Street to the lights and turning north onto Clementi and then a right onto D’Eyncourt St. then left onto Hague Blvd. and north to the Lakefield Community Beach, where there is a municipal parking lot.

A good variety of waterfowl has been observed here in winter over the years. Mallard, Common Goldeneye and Common Merganser are the species most commonly encountered and Trumpeter Swan and Mute Swan are both regular. Until relatively recently this section of the river has been the most reliable location in the county at which to observe Mute Swan. It is always worth checking, as some local seasonal rarities have turned up over the years, including Long-tailed Duck, White-winged Scoter and Red-necked Grebe. In December 2014 the county’s second record for Ross’s Goose was established at Lakefield Community Beach.

This location covers the Otonabee River from just above the Lakefield Dam at Bridge Street north to its confluence with Katchewanooka Lake. It is primarily a location at which to view overwintering waterfowl and other waterbirds. Except during the coldest periods this section of river remains ice-free. Note that that there is no left turn onto Water Street when approaching from the south on Bridge Street (CR 29); and vehicles southbound on Water Street may only make a right turn at Bridge Street. To access Water Street, drive north through the village north to Concession Street, turn left and proceed to Water St.