Great Camping & Western Bird Watching in Utah & California
Birding, or bird watching, is a popular hobby all over America. Western bird watching is especially popular due to the diverse ecosystems that line this part of the United States. Did you know that Salt Lake City is one of the best western bird watching locations to observe upwards of 250 species of birds – all in one place? The Great Salt Lake is visited by 3-6 million birds each year. Some stay to nest, others are just passing through. One thing is for sure though: it’s a sight to behold for birdwatchers everywhere. The Great Salt Lake is an important resting point for migratory birds on their way to South America, which is why so many of them come to stay.
Utah Camping & Western Bird Watching
Yellow-headed Blackbird at the Great Salt Lake, photo courtesy of sltrib.com
But the Great Salt Lake isn’t the only place in Utah that hosts a number of bird species- Cache Valley is a wonderful place to observe raptors and there are even a few marshland areas to observe waterfowl in the area as well. Logan Utah has several nearby roads with areas to pull over so there’s plenty of opportunity to stop for awhile and just observe the avian life in the area. Up in the mountains, there’s opportunity to observe songbirds as well!
You don’t have to head out to Southern Utah to go bird watching, though. Salt Lake City itself has several areas to check out the local bird life. Miller Bird Refuge is only a few blocks away from our Salt Lake City budget campervan rental depot. This small park within the city is perfect for taking a relaxing stroll, and is home to a few different species of birds.
Western Bird Watching in California
Utah isn’t the only place rich for western bird watching though. California has more recorded bird species than any other state in the contiguous United States. California is home to a wide variety of habitats- from ocean shoreline, to marshland, to high altitude desert, California basically has it all when it comes to western bird watching. Picking where to start can be difficult, with such an array of options it’s no wonder!
Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary in Northern California hosts up to 300 species of birds. If you’re looking to visit one place with the most diversity, Arcata Marsh is definitely the stop for you. For those ocean lovers, this is a good spot to hang out near the shore while observing the local bird life. The visitor’s center has plenty of information about the local species, and information on the latest sightings as well.
Arcata Marsh, photo courtesy of redwoods.info
California Camping & Western Bird Watching
If you’d like to do some camping while you’re enjoying some western bird watching, Yosemite National Park is another great place to observe California’s birds. Late spring through summer is the best time to visit, as some of the higher elevation roads can be shut down due to snowfall. The elusive Black Swift can be found in Yosemite’s lower elevation areas- though it’s a tricky bird to spot! We have a budget campervan rental depots in San Francisco and another in Los Angeles which are with 3 hours of these great California birdwatching and camping locations.
Lost Campers can provide you the vehicle to get you to all these great birding places and more, all while sticking to a budget. Summer reservations are coming in fast- be sure to get your reservation confirmed soon!