The ODFW Visitors' Guide
Northwest Region
Fern Ridge Wildife Area Management Plan (pdf)
Best time to visit: All year for bird viewing.
What to see and do
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The Royal Avenue Viewing Platform.
-Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife- |
At the wildlife area: Fern Ridge Wildlife Area is managed primarily for waterfowl wintering and nesting. More than 250 species of birds use the area during different seasons of the year, making this an excellent birding destination. Shorebirds, raptors and wintering waterfowl including ducks, geese and swans can be seen during late fall and winter. Lake and marsh habitats provide excellent viewing opportunities. Wintering waterfowl are best viewed on open water areas of the reservoir and in flooded cropland fields on the southeast portion of the area. Seasonal public access restrictions apply to protect wintering waterfowl. Maps and bird checklists are available at area headquarters and parking area information kiosks. There are boat and canoe access sites and nature trails to provide lake and wildlife area access during spring and summer months.
Nearby: Richardson Park and Campground is located on Fern Ridge Lake, and is the closest public campground to the Eugene area. Camping, picnicking, swimming, a marina and boat ramp are available.
Directions
Fern Ridge Wildlife Area surrounds Fern Ridge Reservoir and is located five miles west of Eugene on either side of Hwy. 126. Cantrell Road borders the area on the south. Access points are located around the perimeter of Fern Ridge Reservoir with parking areas, canoe access sites and parks providing lake and wildlife area access.
Address and Phone
Fern Ridge Wildlife Area
26969 Cantrell Road
Eugene, OR 97402
(541) 935-2591
Northwest Region | Southwest Region | High Desert Region | Northeast Region
