Ken-Dee Marshes
CraigOpenSee opening timesWith stunning views across the River Dee and Loch Ken, this reserve has both wetland and woodland, in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway.
About
⚠ The RSPB Ken-Dee Marshes reserve is undergoing some changes. A significant part of the reserve, encompassing over 20 hectares, which has been leased by the RSPB since 1978, has now been taken back under the management of the landowner and our lease has been terminated. This includes both of the existing hides, which are also now under the ownership and management of the landowner, who is now solely responsible for their condition and upkeep.
The RSPB remains deeply committed to the conservation of the wider Ken-Dee Marshes area and will continue working closely with landowners, partners, and stakeholders to ensure the ongoing care of this special place and the wildlife that depends on it. We are dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and ecological value of the surrounding environment, and we will remain actively involved in supporting its long-term future. ⚠
The reserve is an important roost and feeding refuge for a population of rare Greenland White-fronted Geese. Loch Ken remains one of the very few Scottish mainland sites where this shy species regularly winters.
The wetland habitats see many breeding birds, including Redshanks, Lapwings and ducks, such as the Shoveler. The loch's islands have become home to a large colony of Black-headed Gulls, which make a noisy spectacle in the summer.
The mature stands of broadleaved trees are a haven for Barn Owls, Redstarts, Song Thrushes, Spotted and Pied Flycatchers, and Willow Tits. Elsewhere on the reserve, there are Otters, lots of dragonflies, and plants such as the rare Pillwort.
At a glance
Open at all times.
The car park is situated by the entrance to Mains of Duchrae farm.
No height restrictions. On crushed stone aggregate. Can be rutted, not pushchair-friendly. No lighting.
There are no toilets here.
Nearest accessible toilets are at Castle Douglas, 7 miles (10km) away. There is a charge.
There are no toilets here.
Nearest baby changing facilities at Castle Douglas, 7 miles (10km) away. There is a charge.
Mixture of uneven surfaces including rolled stone, tarmac and grass. Some gradient.
Mixture of uneven surfaces including rolled stone, tarmac and grass. Some gradient.
The nature trails may not be suitable for wheelchairs.
There are no toilets here.
Nearest public toilets are at Castle Douglas, 7 miles (10km) away. There is a charge.
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
RSPB Scotland welcomes responsible access, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
During the ground-nesting bird breeding season (1 April to 15 August) we would ask that you keep your dog close to you, preferably on a short lead and please clean up after your dog.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
Contact Ken-Dee Marshes
wood.cree@rspb.org.uk Ken-Dee Marshes Reserve, Castle, Dumfries and Galloway, DG7 2LY 01776 840 539