Through the efforts of many, Swan Lake Soars Again. Once Pocahontas County’s largest lake, the area was drained in 1911 and farmed until 2001 when restoration work began. Today the area is once again alive with wildlife and history. Nature lovers may hike through the dry uplands, swamp lands, and Oak Savanna habitats that once again embrace a variety of wildflowers, native grasses, burr oak trees, waterfowl, insects, birds, reptiles, and mammals. History buffs may read about buffalo runs, Indian burial sites, and steamboat tours on the interpretive sign at the overview built in 2007. Whether the day is sunny or overcast, the view to the west becomes clearer and louder until you can almost sense the presence of the native wildlife and cultures that once thrived at Swan Lake.

Pothole Birding

Be sure to visit the area during the spring and fall when the air is filled once again with the sights and sounds of migratory songbirds and waterfowl. While Swan Lake was named for its resemblance to a swan, today it is also home to free-flying trumpeter swans.

Location Description and Other Information

Swan Lake is located 2 miles N of Laurens on County Road N28. You may enter from either the south or north on Potato Farm Road.

• 2 miles N of Laurens
• Swan Lake, Potato Farm Road and N28
• 392 Acres of restored prairie, oak savanna, wetlands - Pocahontas County Conservation Board
• Wildflowers, Hunting, Bird and Wildlife Watching, Hiking

Handicapped Hunting Shack along north access road. Please contact PCCB Office (712-335-4395) for more information and key.

Educational Activity

• To be added

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