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Description
Seven Islands State Birding Park is a 416-acre park along the French Broad River that is being managed to restore natural forest and grassland. The peninsula of land features natural trails, rolling hills, and views of the Smoky Mountains. The diverse natural landscape of aquatic and grassland habitats and the openness of the landscape makes the park a great place for birding.
The park is located along the migratory path of many bird species and during the breeding season many birds can be found nesting at the refuge. Many birders simply walk along the paved road (Kelly Lane, indicated on the map), which runs through the area to a dead end at the French Broad River. The park also includes nine miles of hiking trails, which trace through woodlands, fields, and alongside the river. Birds you can observe include Northern Bobwhite, Wild Turkey, Prothonotary Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, Bald Eagle, Osprey, Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting and Orchard Oriole.
Winter is a favorite time to bird Seven Islands, as the grass fields can host ten or more species of sparrow. For example Grasshopper Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, Vesper Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Lincoln's Sparrow, Fox Sparrow and Chipping Sparrow.
Details
Access
Seven Islands State Birding Park is located in Kodak, Tennessee, about 19 miles east of Knoxville (roughly a 30-minute drive). Take I-40 East toward Exit 402 (Midway Road). Follow signs to Kelly Lane, which leads directly to the park entrance. Free parking is available at the main trailhead. Press P on the map for directions.
Besides the Kelly Lane paved road a network of marked trails trace through woodlands, fields, and alongside the river. Restrooms can be found at the park entrance.