Thrasher Lake is a 36-acre impoundment with a wooded shoreline located in northwest Amherst County. This is one of three public reservoirs, along with Mill Creek and Stonehouse, owned by the County of Amherst. Thrashers Lake Park offers a scenic view of the mountains while providing opportunities for birding, fishing, and family outings in a quiet setting.
With 143 species recorded, Thrashers Lake Park is second only to Mill Creek Lake Park in terms of species. Twenty-five species of waterfowl as well as ten species of gulls and terns have been recorded on the lake. Autumn through Spring is the best time to visit. This lake can be particularly productive following the passage of storms. The entrance road and area around the parking lot often produce many birds. Depending on season, these may include a dozen or more species of sparrows, warblers, flycatchers, and woodpeckers—including Red-headed. There are no trails in the park. The best way to observe water birds here is to walk up on the earthen dam. A scope is helpful since many birds may be concentrated towards the other end of the lake. During migration, shorebirds and waders are sometimes found near the water’s edge at the base of the dam and on exposed flats at the far end of the lake.
Rarities that have been found here include Ross’s, Greater White-fronted, and Cackling Geese, Long-tailed Duck, Surf Scoter, Red-necked Grebe, Semipalmated Plover, White Ibis, Swallow-tailed Kite, and Golden Eagle.
Accessibility: The lake is open daily year-round from one hour after sunrise to one hour after sunset. Boats propelled by oar or electric motors are welcome but outboard motor use is prohibited. Facilities include picnic tables, restroom, play area, boat ramp, and associated parking.
To access this park, from US 60 turn northeast on Rt. 610 (approximately 10 miles west of Amherst), then turn left on Rt. 617, and the lake access road will be the first road on the left.
Owner/Manager: County of Amherst
eBird Hotspot: Thrashers Lake Park
—Mike Boatwright, March 2021