Field Birding on the Indiana Birding Trail: Tippecanoe River

Tippecanoe River State Park is a scenic stop on the Indiana Birding Trail, known for its diverse habitats and great opportunities to see migrating birds in early autumn. The park spans over 2,700 acres of river, woods, wetlands, and open space along the Tippecanoe River.

This Field Birding on the Indiana Birding Trail outing is designed for birders of all experience levels. First-time visitors and returning birders alike will find a relaxed, supportive way to enjoy the early colors of fall and the rhythms of migration while making progress on the Indiana Birding Trail Checklist Challenge (see details below).

Katey Powell will lead the trip, with a focus on fall seasonal migrants, strategies for birding along the Tippecanoe River corridor, and identification tips for vireos, warblers, thrushes, and early sparrows. The group will meet at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time at the Tippecanoe River State Park Nature Center parking area.

Registration

Registration is required and limited to 20 participants. Event tickets are $5 per person for Indiana Audubon members and $15 per person for non-members.

Accessibility

This outing includes walking on park trails that range from flat river edges to gentle woods paths. Most walking will be on unpaved surfaces with light elevation changes. Please bring your own binoculars. Spotting scopes and cameras are welcome.

Admission

Indiana State Park entrance fees apply and are paid at the gate, currently $7 per vehicle for Indiana residents and $15 per vehicle for non-residents. Annual passes are available as well.

Checklist Challenge

This field trip counts toward the Indiana Birding Trail Checklist Challenge, a free yearlong activity. Visit trail sites to earn points, collect badge stickers, and qualify for prizes through seasonal and year-end drawings in 2026.

Questions

For any questions about this event email info@indianaaudubon.org or call 765-205-1255. If you require accommodations to participate, please contact us as early as possible. While we may not be able to meet every request, we will make every reasonable effort to do so.

Photo Credit: WikiCommons