Exploring Cane Ridge Wildlife Management Area: Wildlife, Birding, and Land Use in Southern Indiana

A Visit to Cane Ridge WMA

We took a drive to visit Cane Ridge Wildlife Management Area in southern Indiana. Located near facilities operated by Duke Energy, this area has been developed in partnership with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to support wildlife habitat.

One of the main reasons we wanted to visit was to see how this land is being used to support wildlife—especially compared to other nearby land being considered for large-scale solar development.

What Is Cane Ridge Wildlife Management Area?

Cane Ridge WMA was created as part of a habitat restoration effort tied to conservation planning.

The goal includes providing nesting areas for the federally endangered Interior Least Tern, along with habitat for many other bird species.

The area is made up of three main sections:

• A 3,000-acre cooling lake and surrounding land (restricted public access)
• The Cane Ridge lake area (wetlands open to visitors)
• The Tern Bar Slough Wildlife Diversity Area

The Cane Ridge portion includes approximately 463 acres of wetlands that support:

• Migrating waterfowl
• Shorebirds and wading birds
• Gulls and terns

This area has also been recognized as a Globally Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society.

Nearby, Tern Bar Slough adds another 840 acres of grassland, scrub, and wetland habitat.

Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing

When we arrived, we found a well-placed observation platform overlooking the lakes and surrounding habitat.

While we were there, several people were photographing birds, which shows just how popular this area has become for birdwatching.

With over 300 species of birds visiting throughout the year, this is a location you can return to in any season and see something different.

There are clearly marked boundaries to protect nesting areas, which helps preserve the habitat while still allowing visitors to enjoy the experience.

One thing we quickly realized—we wished we had brought a camera with a larger lens to capture better photos of the birds.

Exploring Tern Bar Slough

After leaving the main observation area, we drove along gravel roads to reach the parking area for Tern Bar Slough.

During nesting season, certain areas are closed to protect wildlife. Outside of that time, the area is open for regulated hunting, including:

• Deer
• Turkey
• Waterfowl

Conditions for waterfowl hunting can vary depending on water levels in the slough.

Wildlife Along the Wabash River

From there, we continued on toward the Wabash River, following old river roads through land largely owned by Duke Energy.

Along the way, we saw several deer in the fields.

This area is also known for bald eagles, which use both the river and the cooling lake for hunting. We were able to spot a pair of eagles during our visit, which was a highlight of the trip.

Land Use and Conservation

This area offers an interesting look at how land can be used in different ways.

On one hand, there is a working energy facility. On the other, there is a carefully managed wildlife habitat that supports hundreds of species.

As energy needs continue to evolve, it raises questions about how to balance development with conservation.

Rather than trying to answer that question, visiting a place like Cane Ridge gives you a chance to see one example of how wildlife habitat and energy infrastructure can exist side by side.

Tips for Visiting

If you’re planning a trip to Cane Ridge Wildlife Management Area:

• Access is best from Old Highway 64 between Princeton, Indiana and Mount Carmel, Illinois
• Expect gravel roads
• There are no restroom facilities on-site
• Trails are limited, so dress for brush and insects
• Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens for wildlife viewing

A Unique Outdoor Experience

Cane Ridge offers a unique opportunity to experience wildlife in a setting that combines conservation and modern land use.

For those who enjoy birdwatching, photography, or simply spending time outdoors, it’s a quiet and rewarding place to explore in southern Indiana.

Nearby Places to Explore

If you’re visiting Cane Ridge Wildlife Management Area, there are several other unique stops nearby worth adding to your trip:

• Lyles Station and Gibson County underground railroad – A preserved African American settlement with deep historical roots in southern Indiana.
• New Harmony State Park in Southern Indiana – Great for hiking, camping, and enjoying scenic views along the Wabash River.
• Hovey Lake Fish and Wildlife visit in 2025  – Another excellent spot for birdwatching, fishing, and spotting wildlife along the river.
• Crossville, Grayville, and Beall Woods State Park along the Wabash River in Illinois part 2  – Visit Beall woods located just across the river in Illinois, this park features old-growth forest and peaceful walking trails.

View the video of our visit.

Question for you

Have you visited a wildlife management area like this or seen large bird populations in your area?