Benson Pond

Home » Birding Locations » Harney County » Central/lower Refuge

Buena Vista Ponds and Overlook

More Info Directions

Page Springs Campground and nature trails

More Info Directions

Malheur Center Patrol Road

More Info Directions

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters

More Info Directions

Krumbo Reservoir

More Info Directions

Frenchglen

More Info Directions

Pete French Round Barn

More Info Directions

Sodhouse Ranch

More Info Directions

Malheur Field Station

More Info Directions

The Narrows

More Info Directions

Diamond Craters

More Info Directions

Seasons

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Location

With its tall cottonwood trees and habitat diversity, Benson Pond sports the second highest species totals (after headquarters) of any spot within Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

To find Benson Pond, travel 8 miles south from Buena Vista (or 11 miles north from Frenchglen) to the Krumbo Reservoir turnoff. Take Krumbo Reservoir Road east one quarter mile to the Center Patrol Road (CPR) which begins off to the right. After a little less than a mile on CPR you will see a good -sized lake and the Benson Pond Trailhead on your left.

Directions

Habitat and Birds

Park at the trailhead and walk the Benson Pond Trail into the grove of trees at the end of the road.

Scan for the Trumpeter Swans that typically nest on the pond. Waterfowl are well represented, as are terns, flycatchers, and swallows. Vagrant passerines are always a possibility in season.

Once back at the CPR, continue south to explore more of Benson Pond and other productive areas.

Discussion