Shamrock and Blalock Reservoirs & Recreation Area
These reservoirs feature expansive open water bordered by forests and wetlands, creating ideal habitat for a wide range of wildlife. The area supports abundant overwintering waterfowl and songbirds, along with active nesting by raptors and wading birds, offering frequent opportunities to observe feeding, breeding, and migratory behaviors.
About This Site
Hours
Amenities
| Amenity | Available |
|---|---|
| Admission Fee | ✕ |
| Lodging | ✕ |
| Visitor or Nature Center | ✕ |
| Restrooms | ✓ |
| Drinking Fountain or Potable Water | ✓ |
| Trails | ✕ |
| Boardwalk | ✕ |
| Camping | ✕ |
| RV Hookups | ✕ |
| Picnic Area | ✓ |
| Kayaking or Canoeing | ✓ |
The Shamrock and Blalock Reservoirs are predominantly open, flatwater habitat with forest and wetlands along the shorelines. The reservoirs serve as overwintering habitat for numerous species of waterfowl, including Northern Shoveler, Blue-winged and Green-winged Teal, Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Lesser Scaup, Gadwall, and American Widgeon.
Each winter, visitors may also see numerous American Pipit, Yellow-rumped (Myrtle) Warbler, Palm Warbler, and Swamp Sparrow. There is a Bald Eagle nest nearby, providing numerous opportunities for guests to see the adults hunting. Each spring, Osprey return to raise young on multiple nests around the site. Great Blue Heron and Great Egret share a rookery on Shamrock Reservoir with 65+ nests. There is a resident population of Limpkin, Canada Geese, Mallard, Belted Kingfisher, and many other species.
Featured Birds
American Kestrel
Bald Eagle
Blue-winged Teal
Brown-headed Nuthatch
Hooded Merganser
Little Blue Heron
Red-headed Woodpecker
Sandhill Crane
Wood Duck
Yellow-breasted Chat
Kayaking and canoeing is allowed at this site from March through October.
CCWA Wildlife Viewing Permits Pricing
The CCWA Wildlife Viewing Permits allow permit holders to observe wildlife at E.L. Huie Holding Ponds and Shamrock, Blalock, & JW Smith Reservoirs. Wildlife Viewing Plus Permit holders are invited on private tours of the Huie Constructed Treatment Wetlands and other non-public areas for birding and wildlife photography opportunities. Permit holders may not enter closed or non-public areas on CCWA. Permits are valid for one year from month of purchase (Ex: If purchased March 3, 2026, a permit would be valid through March 31, 2027). Purchase at Newman Wetlands Center during open hours.
Wildlife Viewing – Day
Access only
Wildlife Viewing
Access only
Wildlife Viewing Plus
Access + guided field trips
Payments
Cash or credit card accepted.
Usage
Each permit can be used for up to five people in one vehicle. The permit holder must be in the vehicle.
Liability
Each permit holder must read and complete a hold harmless form.
Display
Permits must be hanging from the rear view mirror with information facing out.
Photo Gallery
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