Coastal, Mobile-Tensaw River Delta Loop | Baldwin | Best Seasons: Fall | Spring
French Lake (part of the Upper Delta Wildlife Management Area) is located on the Clearwater Forever Wild Tract and features an access point into the vast Mobile-Tensaw Delta system via the Bartram Canoe Trail managed by the Alabama Department of Conservation, State Lands Division. Several featured trails start from this launch offering great opportunities to experience the natural wonders of the Delta. Wood Duck, Yellow-crowned Night-Heron, Barred Owl, Acadian Flycatcher, Prothonotary Warbler, and Northern Parula are just a few of the birds that you will likely encounter both while paddling a canoe or walking. Hike along the water’s edge or into the adjacent upland piney woods any time of year. During the summer months, look for Eastern Wood-Pewee, Yellow-throated Vireo, and Brown-headed Nuthatch. Specialties include Swallow-tailed Kite and Swainson’s Warbler.
For more information about the canoe trails, overnight trip possibilities and river stages, visit www.bartramcanoetrail.com
GPS: N31.13559 W-87.84507
From Stockton, drive north on AL 59 and look for the Upper Delta Wildlife Management Area (WMA) sign [12.5]. Turn left on St. Luke Church Road. Follow the WMA signs to the tract and then follow signs to the French’s Lake Coastal Access Kiosk and Canoe Launch [1.2]. There is no parking or usage fee. For more information about the WMA contact the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division at 251-626-5474; 30571 Five Rivers Blvd., Spanish Fort, AL 36527.
Amenities Available:
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