Directions: In Huntsville, AL, from the intersection of I-565 and US 431/231 (Memorial Parkway), take I-565 east (it soon becomes US Hwy 72) for 7.5 miles to Ryland Pike Road. Turn left on Ryland Pike Road for 6.5 miles (through Maysville where it becomes Hurrican Creek Road) to County Lake Road. At County Lake Road turn right and drive 1.0 miles to madison County Lake. After turning off of US 72 it is also possible to follow the Madison County Public Lake highway directional signs.

Description: Madison County Public Lake is best known for its fishing, but it also serves as an excellent introduction to northern Alabama's birdlife. Scan the lake for wintering waterfowl or perhaps a family of resident Canada Geese and their downy young. The woods around the lake host a variety of warblers and vireos during migration while resident favorites include Northern Cardinal and Blue Jay. From time to time, Ospreys may drop in for some fishing, and you never know when a vagrant gull or tern may turn up unexpectedly.