Written by: Christian Alexandersen

Twice a year, billions of birds fly through Pennsylvania during their migration periods, giving bird-lovers an opportunity to see so many wonderful species.

Pennsylvania is an important part of bird migration because of its location in the Atlantic Flyway – the nation’s primary north–south bird migration route. The Appalachian Mountains create natural corridors that guide birds on their seasonal journeys.

More than 400 species have been recorded in Pennsylvania, making the Keystone State one of the best places to see migrating birds in the northeast. From early September through October, Pennsylvania visitors are treated to hundreds of species.

Our state parks are incredible places to spend time in to take in this fall migration. From shorebirds and waterfowl to songbirds and raptors, Pennsylvanians can see a little bit of everything from our outstanding public lands.

Here’s a breakdown of the park to see the fall migration.

Susquehannock State Park

Located along the scenic Lower Susquehanna River, Susquehannock State Park is the perfect place to view fall bird migration.

From Hawk Point Overlook, you can see hawks, gulls, eagles, ducks, geese, swan, songbirds and shorebirds. Bald eagles, osprey, and the more common turkey and black vultures, regularly soar above the overlook.

Travel a couple miles upriver and you can find the Conejohela Flats, an internationally recognized migratory shorebird resting area. According to the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, as many as 38 species of shorebirds feed and rest on the flats before continuing their migrations.

Presque Isle State Park

Jutting out into the mighty Lake Erie, Presque Isle State Park is an internationally known area for birding. In fact, Presque Isle has been rated by BirdWatching magazine as one of the top birding spots in the country.

More than 339 species of birds have been identified on the peninsula. Visitors can see waterfowl, shorebirds and warblers that make their way through the area as they stop to feed and rest on their migration across Lake Erie.

Gull Point is a standout in the park for birders. Gull Point offers a safe haven and resting spot for migrating and nesting birds. Visitors can view this area from an observation platform reached via the Gull Point Hiking Trail.

Due to the ecological sensitivity of this area, visitors are asked to stay on the designated trail. This natural area is closed to all public use from April 1 through November 30.

Bald Eagle State Park

The mountain ridges surrounding Bald Eagle State Park creates excellent flyways for migrating birds and a perfect place for birders.

In the fall, can find migrating mergansers, cormorants and buffleheads on the lake as they stop at the park to rest and feed during their migration.

Bald Eagle State Park’s diverse habitat attracts many bird species, from flycatchers and swallows to herons and osprey.

Codorus State Park

Designated an “important bird Area” by the National Audubon Society, Codorus State Park in York County has a diverse set of habitats – including wetlands, fields and forests – that bring in vast amount of fall migrating birds.

First and foremost is the 1,275-acre Lake Marburg. With 26 miles of shoreline, it’s a magnet for migrating waterfowls and shorebirds. Ruddy ducks, mergansers and scaups are typical visitors as are grebes, coots, wigeon, yellowlegs, dunlins and sandpipers.

In the park’s wetlands, birders can find herons, kingfishers, red-winged blackbirds and more.

Promised Land State Park

Located within the Pocono Plateau, Promised Land State Park is an incredible place for birders looking to find some fall migratory birds.

Common migratory songbirds such as American redstarts, red-eyed vireos and blackburnian warblers visit the park’s forests. Check out the park’s wildlife observation station located on Lower Lake by the Bear Wallow Boat Launch for the best chance to see waterfowl.

The Masker Museum at Promised Land also features a bird viewing area near Promised Land Lake.

The National Audubon Society has designated Promised Land State Park and surrounding areas as part of the Bruce Lake Natural Area Important Bird Area.

Michaux State Forest

While all 20 of our state forests are great places for birding, Michaux State Forest was recently highlighted for being home to a rare bird.

In August 2026, discovered a clutch of eggs belonging to a Whip-poor-will. This protected, elusive bird species has been on the decline for a number of years. It was an exciting discovery that has led birders to this south-central location in hopes of finding more of these birds.

Though all parts of the Michaux are great for birders to explore, the forest’s four natural areas – Meeting of the Pines, Carbaugh Run, Mt. Cydonia Ponds and Beartown Woods – provide incredible opportunities to spot birds in unique habitats and ecosystems.

 

 

Christian Alexandersen has run one mile in each of Pennsylvania’s 125 state parks. He’s also the host of Hemlocks to Hellbenders– an award-winning podcast all about Pennsylvania’s parks, forests and great outdoors.  Read more blog posts from Christian on our News page.