The first stop on the western portion of the Kentucky wildlife viewing and birding trail is the John James Audubon State Park and Museum in Henderson, Kentucky.
The 692 acre park (including a 28 acre lake and 325 acre nature preserve) preserves the peaceful woods where the famed naturalist walked as he observed the subjects of his paintings.
5-1/2 miles of trails wind through the nature preserve with variations in difficulty and length. The hiking trails also provide the perfect opportunity to observe over 20 species of warblers that settle at Audubon in the springtime.
Visit the world's largest gathering of John James Audubon memorabilia and one of the most extensive collections of his work in the world. Four galleries represent John James Audubon, his life, his work and his legacy.
LEFT: John James Audubon, the first artist or ornithologist to depict life-size birds and animals in their natural surroundings, lived in Henderson for several years. Audubon valued Henderson because of its position on the Mississippi flyway, a bird migration route.
Image Courtesy of the National Audubon Society
LOCATION: John James Audubon State Park and Museum is located just off US-41 at the northern boundary of Henderson encompassing 692 total acres including a 28 acre lake and a 325 acre nature preserve. Lakeside cottages, camping and canoes are available for renting. 270.826.2247.
Henderson also has a historic downtown river walk that includes a collection of bronze bird statues.
