Description
Elevation: 618 ft.
As the largest of the three Amherst County lakes, Mill Creek Lake‘s elaborate shoreline can lead to many surprises such as roosting great blue herons or perhaps a doe and her fawns coming to drink. In winter, the lake should be checked for waterfowl. Take advantage of low water periods throughout migration season to check for various shorebirds. For the dragonfly aficionado, the lake supports a high diversity of species during the summer months. Widow and slaty skimmers, eastern amberwing, black-shouldered spinylegs, blue dasher, and Halloween pennant all occur regularly. Exploring the nearby woods could turn up a variety of woodland bird species while the forest edge is highly decorated with chipping sparrows. Also look for turkey vultures circling high overhead.
Wildlife Sightings
203 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at Mill Creek Lake Park:
- Canada Goose
- Bufflehead
- Hooded Merganser
- Turkey Vulture
- Red-shouldered Hawk
- Red-tailed Hawk
- American Crow
- Tufted Titmouse
- Carolina Wren
- Eastern Bluebird
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 25 Feb 2026 | 11 | John Burleson |
| 23 Feb 2026 | 12 | Michael Boatwright |
| 21 Feb 2026 | 14 | Mark Johnson |
| 20 Feb 2026 | 26 | Michael Boatwright |
| 19 Feb 2026 | 8 | Mike Stinson |
Amenities & Accessibility
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
- Kayak/Canoe Launch
- Boat Ramp
Accessibility Considerations
This location does not have a Birdability Site Review available at this time
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
Maps & Directions
Location: End of Mill Creek Rd/SR 619, Amherst, VA 24521
These directions are to a small public area with parking and a boat ramp, also searchable as “Mill Creek Boat Ramp”, on the body’s southern end.
From US 11/60 in Lexington/Buena Vista, head east and follow to SR 610/Sandidges Rd. Turn left (northeast) and continue 2.8 miles, continuing right past the intersection with SR 617. Turn right (south) onto SR 778, and then turn right onto Turkey Mountain Rd. In 0.9 miles, veer left onto Mill Creek Rd/SR 619.
Site Information
Access Requirements:
- Free, Daily
Contact Information:
- (434) 946-9371 saralu@iwinet.com
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.