Red Bluff Recreation Area

I was concentrating on photographing a Merlin yesterday morning when Jeanette called my attention to a big bird flying in with some prey.  I managed to snap off a couple of quick photos, but it wasn’t until I was back at the RV and downloaded the photos onto the computer and consulted a guidebook that I realized we had a Prairie Falcon.  A close look also reviled it’s victim was an Acorn Woodpecker. Not only is this a new Lifer for me, it is the first time it has been reported at this birding Hot Spot.  We had a spectacular morning of birding with a list of 33 species.  The great birding is one of the things we enjoy the most here at Red Bluff Recreation Area. The extensive network of trails also provides a good opportunity for long walks. But what brought us here originally ten years ago, and continues to be the reason we returned is the wonderful camping at the Sycamore Grove Campground. We have stayed here two nights this trip, and like most other times, we are almost the only campers here.  It’s a fantastic location right on the Sacramento River, and best of all is the price.  Campsites with water and electricity are $25, and because it is a national forest campground, and we have a Senior Pass, our cost was $12.50 a night. Today we will be traveling on to Buckhorn Campground at Black Butte Reservoir.