Welcome to the Observation Zone

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​Borrowing professional birding gear is as easy—and free—as checking out a library book through the Birding Rental Kit Program at the Willow River State Park Nature Center.

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Our mission is to help you connect deeply with nature, whether you are aiming to spot a bald eagle soaring over the river gorge or listening to the song of a hidden prairie warbler. This program is a fantastic, family-friendly way to turn any ordinary hike along our 15 miles of trails into a real-world wildlife expedition.

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A Special Thanks to Our Partners

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This program was made possible by the generosity of our fellow birding enthusiasts at the St. Croix Valley Bird Club. Their donation of high-quality supplies is what allows us to offer these kits to the community. They are an outstanding organization dedicated to bringing birders together, sharing knowledge, and supporting local habitat conservation.

The Aviary Toolkit: What’s Inside Your Pack

Each lightweight, durable backpack serves as your personal mobile field station, packed with everything you need to track and identify the park's winged inhabitants:

• High-Powered Binoculars: Premium optics to help you zoom in on high-canopy nests and distant river predators without disturbing them.

• The Field Guide: A pocket-sized, illustrated reference book specifically tailored to Midwest bird species so you can instantly identify what you spot.

• The Tracker's Checklist: A custom park checklist to help you keep score of the species you encounter during your expedition.

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How It Works (It’s 100% Free!)

Ready to claim your gear and hit the trails? Getting your kit is simple:

• Where to Go: Pick up and return your backpack at the Willow River State Park Nature Center during open hours (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM daily). Kits are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• What to Bring: Just a valid ID. Borrowers must be 18 or older, or have a legal guardian present to sign.

• The Paperwork: Fill out a quick, simple waiver form at the desk, and you are ready to head into the wilderness.

The Ethical Birding Code

A great tracker observes without disturbing. To ensure the safety of our wildlife and the preservation of the park, please keep these rules in mind during your expedition:

• Secure Your Passage (Permits): A Wisconsin State Park daily or annual vehicle admission sticker is required for all vehicles entering the park. The staff at the park entrance will gladly help you secure yours.

• Cover Your Tracks: Use care and precision when searching through the brush so you don't disturb the park's fragile ecosystems. Give nesting birds plenty of space and keep voices low to avoid startling wildlife.

• Share Your Discoveries: Help us track the health of our ecosystem. When you return your backpack, let our Nature Center staff know about any rare or exciting sightings.