Arkansas is one of the best places in the world to spot eagles. Here in the Natural State, we're fortunate to have open waters, well-stocked fish, and plenty of trees perfect for perching. Beginning in late October and until about February, the eagles will be hanging around in our nearby lakes and rivers. Let's take a relaxing weekend to reconnect to nature and see how many eagles we can find.

1. Shores Lake - Mulberry

Watching them dive from cliffs and hearing their calls echo in the valley makes Shores Lake simply a magical place for eagles. Spend the day at the lake with your camera or take a weekend camping trip at the rec area located at Co Rd., 75, Mulberry, AR 72947.

2. Hobbs State Park - Rogers

Beaver Lake is a hot spot for eagles in the cold months. Take advantage of the state park's eagle watch tours that will be happening every Saturday and Sunday beginning in November until February. The guided tours are only $10/person. Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area is located at 20201 AR-12, Rogers, AR 72756. To reserve your tour spot, visit the state park’s website right here.

3. Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge - Dardanelle

This wildlife refuge does have a handful of permanent eagle residents but winter is still the best time to spot the birds. It's not uncommon to see large flocks of other migratory birds as well, including trumpeter swans and American white pelicans. The refuge is located at 10448 Holla Bend Rd., Dardanelle, AR 72834.

4. Old Post Park - Russellville

If the expansive 6,486 acres of Holla Bend seems too much tour, head just a little further north to the Old Post Park. The park is also situated along the Arkansas River but offers cozier camping spaces. Eagles can be seen posted in the trees near the dam. The park is located near 1063 Lock and Dam Rd., Russellville, AR 72802.

5. Magness Lake - Heber Springs

Magness Lake may be famous for its flocks of trumpeter swans but they certainly aren't the only bird that flies by the water. Families will have fun feeding the swans (with the provided shelled corn) and seeing how many pairs of eagles they can spot nearby. The lake is located along Hays Rd., Heber Springs, AR 72543.

6. Nimrod Lake - Plainview

Try your eagle-spotting luck along all six parks around Nimrod Lake. Have fun camping, fishing, or hiking while you scan the trees for the birds. One entry point to the lake is located at 3 Hwy. 7, South Plainview, AR 72857.

7. DeGray Lake Resort State Park - Bismarck

Even the eagles can enjoy Arkansas' only resort state park. DeGray Lake typically has a large number of eagles stay for winter and can be spotted all along the shoreline. The park offers boat tours throughout the season and hosts the Annual Eagles Et Cetera Festival in January. For more information about these events, visit the state park’s website right here. The park is located at 2027 State Park Entrance Rd., Bismarck, AR 71929.

8. Lake Ouachita - Mountain Pine

The crystal clear waters of Arkansas' largest lake do not go unnoticed by our favorite birds. You may spot an eagle or two while canoeing the lake or while hiking the nearby Caddo Bend Trail. The state park is located at 5451 Mountain Pine Rd., Mountain Pine, AR 71956

9. Andrew H. Hulsey State Fish Hatchery - Hot Springs

In addition to Lake Catherine, the eagles have another favorite spot near Hot Springs. The Andrew H. Hulsey State Fish Hatchery attracts all sorts of birds, including eagles. Come armed with a camera and see what treasures you spot. This area happens to be the only place in the state that the uncommon mountain bluebird was ever seen. The hatchery is located at 350 Fish Hatchery Rd., Hot Springs National Park, AR 71913.

10. White River - Cotter

The White River is a favorite for eagles but one guaranteed place to see some is at His Place Resort. The resort has a pair that returns every year to the same tree. There's nothing quite like fishing the White River with eagles nearby. The resort is located at 89 Chamberlain Ln., Cotter, AR 72626.

Of course these aren't the only places to see eagles in Arkansas. Share your favorite spots with us in the comments below!

We would love to see your eagle photos in our Facebook Group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.

If you're eagle spotting along the White River, be sure to stop for a bite at this lovely waterside eatery.