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Photos & Information for Clear Creek Wetlands in Denton, Texas
Pockets of wetlands are precious and ensure the survival of our greatest national treasure: wildlife! Depending upon the location of the wetlands and wildlife areas, different expectations should exist.
It's important to keep that thought in mind when visiting the Clear Creek Wetlands in Denton, Texas. What might one expect to see there?
Birds - On the day of our visit we saw a downy woodpecker, a flicker, a cardinal, a titmice, kingbirds, chickadees, a turkey vulture, and what appeared to be a resident great blue heron wading in one of the ponds situated on the wetlands (photo below).
It's not that we arrived and all the birds swept into the area around us; we hiked a good two miles and only saw one of most of the above. And again, the day was dreary and our visit occurred in the afternoon when bird activity is typically not at its peak.
Clear Creek Wetlands Photo of Great Blue Heron
Needless to say, Bozo flew away quickly once he was apprized of our presence, even though we were clear across the creek from him! No doubt, one of those famous 'Chicken Birds'.
Hiking Trails & Prairie - Although a good deal of this area consists of open prairie, there are lots of nice, wooded trails at the Clear Creek Wetlands, which comes in handy on those hot Texas days. The potential for flooding can actually be felt and seen in much of the landscape. The flood line on these old trees goes up to 10 feet or more:
There is a flowing creek that runs juxtapose to the Clear Creek Wetlands, but most of what is left of the ponds scattered about the area will definitely dry up when the warmer weather settles in, if rain isn't in the future. Photos of sections of the remaining water sources for wildlife:
What to take on your visit to Clear Creek Wetlands, Denton Texas
Be certain to include an ample supply of water. Keep in mind that this area of Texas is hot, hot, hot! We visited in February - early February and it was a balmy 80+ degrees and extremely muggy. We longed to trade our jeans for a pair of shorts that day.
On the day of our visit there was a porta-potty for use, but you may wish to take a roll of tissue or face being stranded without a roll.
Be sure to wear dependable, comfortable shoes. Keep your eyes open for potential danger as this is a wild area and snakes live here - poisonous ones.
If you plan to go birding, take your necessary binoculars and other favorite gear. If you're new to birding, visit early morning and late afternoon.
Directions to Clear Creek Wetlands, Denton Texas
From University Street in Denton, turn onto Cooper going north. Cooper will end at Mingus. Turn right and follow this road until it runs into Collins; there will be a curve in the road so continue to follow the curve. Clear Creek Wetlands is about a mile down.
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