Chilatchee Creek Park and Campground sits adjacent to the 27-mile-long Dannelly Reservoir. The woods are a pine-oak mix of varying densities. The central part of the park is largely open, mature canopy with a grassy understory, while the periphery of the park is all-ages, with dense under- and mid-stories. From spring through fall there are numerous White-eyed Vireos, Carolina Wrens, Hooded and Kentucky Warblers and Common Yellowthroats in the understory. Indigo Buntings, Eastern Wood-Pewees, and Blue Grosbeaks are easy to find here, too.
Canopy species present include Northern Parulas, Yellow-throated and Pine Warblers, Brown-headed Nuthatches, Yellow-throated Vireos, Yellow-billed Cuckoos, Barred Owls, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, and Orchard Orioles. You can find Wild Turkeys and Northern Bobwhites all around the property. At the northeast corner of the property is a picnic area with a wooden deck that overlooks a patch of mixed woods; it's a good spot to take a quick survey of what's in the area. From here, a sandy dirt path leads to a small pier with a good view of the Dannelly Reservoir. Winter brings a few gulls, Forster's Terns, some waterfowl and Bald Eagles.
Chilatchee Park and Campground is level and open, with paved roads throughout, and can be birded comprehensively in a couple hours. The campground is popular with boaters and fishermen, and the 33 campsites are in steady demand. There is a fee for campsites, so birders are advised to request free short-term admission at the gate.
Contact Chilatchee Creek Park
2267 Chilatchee Creek Road
Alberta, AL 36720
Phone: (334) 573-2562
Service Area
