During January and February, four state resort parks participate in the "Eagle Watch Weekends," a chance to see the American Bald Eagle in the wild. In 1970, the Kentucky Department of Parks conducted its first-ever Eagle Weekend at Land Between the Lakes in western Kentucky, a wintering spot for American bald eagles. During Kentucky's relatively mild winters, eagles would fly down from their habitats in the northern U.S. and Canada to wait until the spring thaw.
The Eagle Weekend was visualized as an opportunity for visitors to see this endangered species in the wild. As the species dwindled due to the pesticide DDT, it was feared that the opportunity to see this noble creature in its winter habitat might someday vanish. The event has now grown from one park to four over several weekends. The tours take place on an excursion yacht, barges, pontoon boats and by van, depending upon the location and tour. The weekends are scheduled at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park, Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park; Kenlake State Resort Park; and Lake Barkley State Resort Park. For specific dates and ticket information, contact the parks at:
Dale Hollow State Resort Park (800-325-2282)
Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park (800-325-0146)
Lake Barkley State Resort Park (800-325-1708)
Kenlake State Resort Park (800-325-0143)
