The 11 Best Places and Times to See Bald Eagles in Oklahoma

Bald eagles call Oklahoma home year-round, with numbers in the hundreds. However, these numbers spike as eagles from Canada and the Upper Midwest fly over in search of food in the state’s unfrozen waters. But where can you catch a glimpse of these elegant migratory birds? Keep reading to discover the best places and times to see bald eagles in Oklahoma for the best chance to spot one. 

When Are the Best Times to See Bald Eagles in Oklahoma? 

The best time to see bald eagles in Oklahoma is in winter. Eagle convocations travel from Canada and the chilly northern states to temporarily reside in warmer climates. In fact, the large and stunning reservoirs entice the state’s eagle population to its shorelines from October to April. Since they primarily eat fish, they choose their winter nests according to their proximity to fish and small mammals they can prey on. 

The Best Places to See Bald Eagles in Oklahoma

1. Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge

One of the best places to see southern bald eagles in Oklahoma is the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge. Hike along trails and stop by the observation decks to see the eagles in their natural habitat. What’s more, dedicated bird watchers are encouraged to sign up for the Eagle Tour & Loon Watch – weekly get-togethers from late January to early March where members look for eagles spotted on the refuge’s live webcam.  

2. Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge

The Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge in North-Central Oklahoma is home to sandhill cranes, whooping cranes, mallards, and, of course, bald eagles. With over 32,000 acres of land, 12,000 of which are salt flats, there is more than enough to see. After digging for hourglass selenite crystals, hike the Sandpiper Trail to reach the bird observation platform. Then, complete the Eagle Roost Nature Trail to Creek Bay to see the biggest congregation of bald eagles in the state. 

3. Keystone Lake

Keystone Lake in Keystone State Park is a popular fishing and water recreation area. However, the incredible lake views outside of Tulsa serve as the perfect backdrop for eagle photos. Visitors can see the elegant bird dive for fish below the water’s surface along the 330-mile shoreline or roosting on the lip of their nests among the trees.

4. Lake Thunderbird State Park

Lake Thunderbird State Park is one of the best places to see a bald eagle in Oklahoma because it’s located along their migratory path. The eagles safely roost among the tall oaks to hunt from December to February. Bring a pair of binoculars to find them along the hiking trails, or check in with the helpful park rangers to find the year’s most popular nesting spots.    

5. Lake of the Arbuckles

The Lake of the Arbuckles in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area is more than just a popular fishing spot. Wintering bald eagles and other bird species come here to roost because of the clear waters. Don’t forget to attend the annual Bald Eagle Watch. It allows you to see the birds from the best spot in the park and meet other bird watchers.   

6. Arcadia Lake

The stunning Arcadia Lake is filled with fish and the surrounding woodland patches provide shelter, bringing eagles to the area every year. Additionally, the annual Arcadia Eagle Watch is held in the park office. Rangers teach visitors more about eagles before heading out as a group to spot them along the impressive lake. Here, you have a chance to see them gracefully carrying fish from the water or roosting high in the trees.  

7. Lake Altus-Lugert

The best place to see bald eagles in the Quartz Mountain State Park is roosting in the cottonwood trees along the northern shore of Lake Atlus-Lugert. But if you can’t find them here, head to the southwestern point of the Twin Peaks to check out the nests. Eagles are frequently spotted in these park areas from late December until the beginning of March. Head to one of these points shortly after sunrise or an hour before sunset for the best chance of seeing the wintering eagles.    

8. Grand Lake

Enjoy one of the many lodges and sightseeing spots within the Grand Lake State Park. You have the option to see the birds soar over the water by boat or along any of the six hiking trails that stretch across the park. But you’re likely to see more of them at once perching beneath the lake dam where they hunt for food.  

9. Tenkiller Lake

Eagles are drawn to the 130-mile shoreline of Tenkiller Lake for its fish, making it one of the best places to see bald eagles in Oklahoma. The beautiful blue lake is located in the Cookson Hills within Tenkiller State Park. Here, you’ll glimpse the wintering southern eagles and other migratory birds. What’s more, Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge is less than an hour away. As a result, you can attend multiple birdwatching events. 

10. Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve

The Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve contains over 39,000 acres of protected tallgrass prairie, the largest in the world. In addition to the free-roaming bison that call it home, over 300 bird species, including bald eagles, find refuge in the preserve. Vegetation is sparse in the park during winter, making it easy to see roosting and flying eagles against the beige and umber scenery.   

11. Illinois River

The Illinois River attracts eagles to its shores because of the large number of trout swimming in its waters. You can spot them while hiking through the forested trails of the Ozark Hills or driving through Tahlequah. Last year, an extremely rare leucistic eagle was spotted eating an armadillo before perching in a tree along the river.

Summary of the Best Places and Times to See Bald Eagles in Oklahoma