Binder Lake can be an exciting place, especially in winter. It gets a fine mix of diving waterfowl. Common Loons, a variety of grebes, Long-tailed Ducks, scoters, Common Goldeneye and more may be found here among the Canada and Cackling Geese. Trumpeter and Tundra Swans may rest on the ice. In early spring, American Woodcock may be observed near the northwest shore. The viewing blind near the area below the dam provides opportunity to watch shorebirds and Tree Swallows

Directions: From US 50 west of Jefferson City take the Apache Flats/St. Martin's exit, continue west on Bus. 50, turn right (north) at South Binder Lake Rd., left (west) on Rainbow Dr., and right (north) on Binder Park Rd. In winter, the road along the west shore connecting this main entrance with the north end near the dam may be closed. To reach the north (dam) end of the lake, take the Country Club Rd. exit off US 50 to a right (second road past the service station) onto Rainbow Dr., go .5 mile to Henwick. Go right onto Henwick to the lake and Binder Park Rd. on the left.

Binder Lake Rd. crosses the lower end of the lake. Birders may pull off and view the lake on one side and a marshy area on the other. The road has several large pull-off areas along the west side. The two fishing docks provide excellent viewpoints for scanning the length of the lake with a scope. The pond for shorebird viewing from the blind is east of the dam, off Henwick.

The road along the south end and along the west side give excellent views of various points on the lake from a vehicle. The road along the south end has narrow shoulders so pull off as far as you can to bird from a car and use caution if you get out along it to set up a scope.There is no ADA access trail to the blind at the marsh. In winter, for safety in icy conditions, Binder Lake Rd. is often closed south of the boat ramp.

The Audubon Trail along the east side may be entered near the pavilion on southwest side of lake.