Birding Locations – I-65 Corridor Area

This page focuses on birding locations along the I-65 corridor, which generally bisects the central section of Kentucky. These locations are accessible from the interstate highway more quickly than some others. You can explore the websites related to these spots for more information.

Louisville Nature Center & Beargrass Creek Nature Preserve – Located in Louisville, this preserve is a 41-acre urban forest with over 2 miles of hiking trails. 3745 Illinois Avenue, Louisville KY 40213.
Bernheim Forest – Located 25 miles south of Louisville and 4 miles south of Shepherdsville in Bullitt and Nelson counties.
Falls of the Ohio – From I-65 at Louisville, take Exit 0 on the Indiana side and follow signs to Falls of the Ohio State Park. Best viewing is with a spotting scope from the State Park overlook; also walk downstream to view additional exposed rock shelves.
Freeman Lake – Located in Hardin County.
Jefferson Memorial Forest – Located in southwestern Jefferson County, near I-265. It has over 30 miles of hiking trails. The address is 11311 Mitchell Hill Road, Fairdale, KY 40118.
Taylorsville Lake State Park Trail Map – Located in Spencer County, on the shores of Taylorsville Lake. This park offers trails and lake views for birding.
Otter Creek Outdoor Recreation Area – Located in Meade County, about 25 miles southwest of Louisivlle. This park of over 3,000 acres is on the shore of the Ohio river and offers birders river views and multiple trails.
Transient Lakes Page at Eastern Kentucky University – Located in Warren County, Chaney Lake and McElroy lake are considered to be transient because they dry up for part of the year. This website provides more information and directions.
Caution! If you plan to visit, be aware that these lakes are on private property and access is restricted to specific areas, or from the road. Please reseach access rules before and you go, and respect property rights while you are there.