Carson Park, Half Moon Lake and Riverview Park

Carson Park is Eau Claire’s largest; a 130-acre peninsula surrounded by Half Moon Lake. Its trails, woods, marshes and brushy areas attract many species of birds. Hiking trails scale the bluffs. From overlooks you can see Black Ducks, Wood Ducks and Mallards on the lake below. The park’s many popular attractions include the Chippewa Valley Museum, Paul Bunyan Logging camp, and an historic baseball field. Riverview Park lies along the Chippewa River on the city’s north side. An arched bridge crosses the river leading to an island where you can access the river’s backwaters for Yellow warblers, Willow Flycatchers and song sparrows.

Directions: Carson Park can be reached from Carson Park Drive, Lake St. or Menomonie St. Riverview Park has numerous entrances along Riverview Drive.

Gazetteer: Page 60, B-4.

Phone: 715/839-4914.

Web site: Carson Park | Half Moon Lake

Signature Species: Coot, Gadwall, Great Horned Owl, and Red-breasted Nuthatch.

Seasonality: Open all year.

Parking: Parking lots provided.

Nearest food & lodging: Eau Claire.