Mill Creek Lake is a 189-acre impoundment with a wooded shoreline, located in northwest Amherst County. This is the largest of the three public watershed reservoirs owned by the County of Amherst. Mill Creek Lake Park provides opportunities for birding, fishing, and family outings. There is a short trail going to a point to the right of the boat ramp but otherwise birding is from the parking area. A scope is helpful as birds are often distant from the parking area.
This park can be one of the most productive birding spots in Amherst County year-round. The area boasts an astounding 184 bird species. Thirty species of waterfowl as well as ten species of gulls and terns have been recorded on the lake. Autumn through Spring is the best time to visit. In Summer, you are likely to see more fisherman, boaters, and picnickers than birds. However, this area is worth a visit anytime. Many birds—including rarities—have been found following the passage of storms. During the passage of Hurricane Isabel in September 2003, a Black Skimmer was found resting in the parking lot and Common, Royal, as well as a probable Roseate Tern were seen flying over the lake. This is a reliable spot for bumping into Black, Caspian, and Forster’s Terns in mid-Spring and late-Summer. Bald Eagles are frequently seen year-round and Golden Eagle has been spotted here as well. A slow drive along Rt 610 when approaching Mill Creek Lake can yield good birds including White-crowned Sparrow in Winter.
Rarities that have been found here include Ross’s, Greater White-fronted, and Cackling Geese, Long-tailed Duck, Surf and White-winged Scoter, Red-necked and Eared Grebe, Red and Red-necked Phalarope, Royal Tern, Black Skimmer, American White Pelican, White Ibis, Black-crowned Night Heron, and Tricolored Heron.
Accessibility: The lake is open daily year-round from one hour after sunrise to one hour after sunset. Boats propelled by oar or electric motors are welcome but outboard motor use is prohibited. Facilities include picnic tables and grills, restrooms, play area, boat ramp, and parking.
Mill Creek Lake Park can be accessed from US 60 by turning onto Lowesville Road (Rt. 778) 9 miles west of Amherst then turning right onto Turkey Mountain Road (Rt 610) and bearing left at the first intersection.
Owner/Manager: County of Amherst
eBird Hotspot: Mill Creek Lake Park
—Mike Boatwright, March 2021