North Fork Buffalo Creek Reservoir (Wichita Co.)

North Fork Buffalo Creek Reservoir (Wichita Co.)

Iowa Park, Texas 76367

Tips for Birding

This spot is fantastic for waterfowl and gulls. The bad news is, it is a big lake and viewing can be challenging in places (definitely need a scope). It can be good for shorebirds in migration. And it is probably the best spot for Sandhill Cranes and all five geese species in the county. They will fly in and out of the lake at dusk and dawn and congregate in the wheat fields on the west side. It is also one of the best spots for wintering Bald Eagle in the area although all the lakes in the area can and do have eagles. Besides the lake the area below the dam is marshy and has lots of willow trees. Winter Wren, Sora and Virginia Rail have been seen and spring migration is decent for warblers, but not as good as Lake Wichita. Below the dam is also good for woodpeckers.

Birds of Interest

This lake is much better for waterfowl, gulls and shorebirds than it is for passerines. This is a reliable spot for Grasshopper Sparrow in late Spring/early Summer, as well as, wintering longspurs on the western side. This spot is also your best chance at a wintering loon in the county.

About this Location

This lake can be entered from the east via Harmony Rd or the west via Burnett Ranch Rd (both exit off of Highway 287). This lake allows hunting so it is possible that you will run into duck hunters. The best conditioned road is the Burnett Ranch Road and is paved all the way to the boat ramp. The dirt road coming in from the east is iffy sometimes, especially after a rain.

This hotspot along with the lake has a combination of mesquite scrub, agriculture fields and limited trees. Hackberry's are the dominant tree and can be found on and below the dam. Wheat fields to the west.  

Notable Trails

No trails really, but there are roads in and around all parts of the lake. The main road is maintained periodically and can be bad right after a rain, but the side roads are not and can get rough.

Features

  • Roadside viewing

  • Restrooms on site

  • Wheelchair accessible trail

  • Entrance fee

Content from Scotty Lofland

Last updated October 31, 2023