Ham Marsh offers 54 acres that include a glacial marsh, sedge meadow, and a reconstructed prairie; an observation blind for wildlife watching is also available. Ham Marsh is north of the town of Independence and west of Hwy 150.
From Independence in Buchanan County, head north on 5th Ave SE toward 1st St E for 1.0 mile; continue onto IA-150 N/Jamestown Ave and travel 1.1 mi; turn left onto Otterville Blvd and drive 3.2 mi; turn right onto Oak St N and go 0.2 mi; continue onto Henley Ave for 1.7 mi; Turn right and you have arrived.
Glacial marsh; sedge meadow; reconstructed prairie.
This is a public hunting area. There is a very small parking area. Otherwise, parking on the side of the gravel road.
There is a mowed grass trail that leads through the prairie fields and to the bird blind and marsh pond. And, it's about a half mile walk to the bird blind area.
Restrooms on site
Wheelchair accessible trail
Entrance fee
Roadside viewing
Content from Karl Fliris and Iowa Ornithologists' Union
Last updated May 21, 2023