There are many amazing experiences to have in nature throughout Kentucky, including scenic hiking trails, remote wilderness, and the sighting of an array of wildlife. Most people think of horses when they think of the Bluegrass State, but Kentucky is home to so many species of animals that it’s become a hobby of several locals to see how many they can witness in the wild. Birdwatching in Kentucky is a popular activity for those who love nature and are fascinated by these incredible, flying creatures. If you’d like to experience one of the best places for birdwatching in Kentucky, head to the western corner of the state and the Ballard Wildlife Management Area.

Managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, Ballard Wildlife Area is a hidden gem of a destination in Western Kentucky.
Facebook/Ballard County Wildlife Management Area
It's located 30 miles west of Paducah along the Ohio River and is open to the public March 16th - October 14th.
Several roads wind through and around the area, which is a part of the Mississippi River floodplain.
Photo Courtesy of Matt Stevens
Within the area, there are 25 miles of gravel roads that are open to visitors who wish to view the wildlife and natural beauty of the land. You can read more about the roads and trails on the Ballard website.
This stunning landscape offers a variety of views and many species of wildlife.
Photo Courtesy of Matt Stevens
Birding is a popular activity in the area and a bucket list - worthy destination for those who enjoy spotting birds in the water, nesting in the trees, and flying through the air.
Photo Courtesy of Matt Stevens
Time spent here will feel as if you've stepped into the pages of a National Geographic Magazine.
Photo Courtesy of Matt Stevens

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These photos, so beautifully captured by Matt Stevens, give you an idea of what you may see with a visit to Ballard Wildlife Management Area.
Photo Courtesy of Matt Stevens
Over 350 species of birds have been documented in Kentucky, and you can see many of them while exploring this wildlife area.
Photo Courtesy of Matt Stevens
Tiny hummingbirds and other small birds love to call this landscape home.
And on the opposite side of the size spectrum, the majestic Bald Eagle also nests and lives in the area.
Photo Courtesy of Matt Stevens
If you time your visit right, you may be lucky enough to see these incredible birds in different stages of life.
Photo Courtesy of Matt Stevens
Newly born babies peek their heads up from the nest, growing Eagles learn the land, and hopefully you'll be able to witness the breathtaking sight of a Bald Eagle soaring through the sky.
Many other birds can be found around the Ballard Wildlife Management Area if you're patient enough to look for them.
Photo Courtesy of Matt Stevens
If you've never experienced the landscape of Western Kentucky, this is a wonderful place to do so.
Photo Courtesy of Matt Stevens
The waterways, fields, and wildlife are truly unique to this section of Kentucky and they are more reasons to appreciate the outstanding natural beauty of the Bluegrass State.

The Ballard Wildlife Management Area is a wonderful place to go birdwatching in Kentucky and should be on your radar as a unique destination in the Bluegrass to witness a wide array of these fascinating animals. Have you been birding in Ballard? What is your favorite spot for birdwatching in Kentucky? Let us know in the comments!

For more information on Ballard Wildlife Management Area, visit its website and follow along with its fans’ Facebook page.

Special thanks to Matt Stevens Photography for sharing his incredible photos of the area. You can see more of his work on his website and also follow along with him on Instagram.

And for another area of Kentucky for viewing all sorts of wildlife, check out our previous article.

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864 Wildlife Lodge Rd, La Center, KY 42056, USA