Site Details

FDR Park - Dubuque County

GPS Coordinates: 42.4685997, -90.728989

Management: City

Description: Tucked out of the way and little-known, even to Dubuque residents, is a birding gem known as FDR park. Much of this park has been converted to a mountain biking trail system which gets moderate use on weekends. On weekdays, the park is deserted and provides a peaceful birding destination. The best times to bird this park are during spring and fall passerine migration. It is one of the more reliable spots for Whip-poor-will and Fox Sparrow during migration.

Habitat: Deciduous forest with adjacent agricultural lands.

Directions: The site lies southwest of the city of Dubuque. From US Hwy 20 at Center Grove, take Cedar Cross Road south for 1.4 miles, then turn right (west) on North Cascade Rd. Follow North Cascade Rd. for another 1.4 miles until you see the Storybook Zoo on the right. Do not enter the parking lot of the Storybook Zoo; rather, follow the gravel road counterclockwise around the perimeter of the property until you come to a small parking area and gate. Park here and follow the road beyond the gate to access the many trails in this park.

Public Hunting Area Search for area boundary information on the DNR interactive atlas