Saylorville Lake
About Saylorville Lake
Saylorville Lake is central Iowa's premier eagle-watching destination. Managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, this 5,800-acre reservoir north of Des Moines attracts more than 100 bald eagles during January and February, when ice on smaller water bodies pushes them to the open lake. American white pelicans stage here in large numbers during spring and fall migration, and the surrounding woodlands and wetlands hold great blue herons, cormorants, and a rotating cast of waterfowl through the colder months.
Species to look for
- Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus
- American White Pelican Pelecanus erythrorhynchos
- Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias
- Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis
- Double-crested Cormorant Nannopterum auritum
Photographer notes
The dam face and spillway area on the south end of the lake is the most reliable eagle concentration point in winter. Arrive at first light — eagles roost in the cottonwoods overnight and become active as temperatures rise. A 400–600mm lens is useful for frame-filling shots from the overlook pullouts. Pelicans work the open water near the marina in April and September; late afternoon light from the west bank is ideal.
Getting there
From Des Moines, take I-35 north to Exit 90 (Saylorville). Follow NW 78th Ave north to the lake. The Saylorville Lake Visitor Center on NW 78th Ave is a good base — free parking, restrooms, and a lakeside overlook. Multiple additional access points around the perimeter.
Map
Ethics and responsible access
Maintain at least 100 yards from roosting eagles — closer approach causes flushing and burns critical winter energy reserves. Do not use recorded calls or food to attract birds. Stay on established paths; the brushy shoreline provides essential shelter for wintering birds.