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Cedar Bluff Reservoir
During fall and spring migrations, the lake is home to many kinds of ducks, geese, and shorebirds. Throughout the winter, Canada geese are seen on the former fish hatchery ponds located below the dam. Winter also draws bald eagles to Cedar Bluff. Look for them from the road across the dam. During summer, hawks and turkey vultures soar effortlessly for hours on thermals created by the dam. A good viewing spot is the hilltop adjoining the south end of the dam. A visit to Cedar Bluff should include a driving tour of the Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area at the western end of the reservoir. If muddy, the roads may be impassable without 4-wheel drive. Wildlife sightings can include both mule deer and white-tailed deer. Also watch for eastern cottontails, black-tailed jackrabbits, and the large stick nests of the eastern wood rats. Summer birds include black-billed magpies, rock wrens, and Bell's vireos. During winter, hawks take advantage of the rodent populations in the surrounding prairie. Watch for red-tailed hawks, ferruginous hawks, northern harriers, prairie falcons, and American kestrels. At dusk watch for long-eared owls and the moth-like flight of short-eared owls as they swoop low over the prairie searching for prey. Wild turkeys are often seen. Check chalk outcrops and gravel areas around the reservoir for fossils.
Ownership: The
entities responsible for management of Cedar Bluff are below. US
Bureau of Reclamation (785) 726-4745; 17,600 acres Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (785)
726-3212
Questions or comments about Natural Kansas may be directed to Jim Mason
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121 utility
campsites. 
No developed trails.
