Baekro Park & Bogang Stream Cottonwood Forest
Located in the heart of downtown Jeungpyeong County (증평군; map), Baekro Park and Bogang Stream Cottonwood Forest lie along the scenic banks of Bogang Stream (보강천; map; Bogangcheon) across the stream from each other. Together, they form a cornerstone of Jeungpyeong’s outdoor parks.
Baekro Park
Baekro Park (백로공원; map) is known for its walking paths, green spaces, and seasonal colors. Named after the white egret (baekro; 백로), which stops by the area while migrating, the park’s entrance features an egret sculpture. The name “Baekro” is also drawn from a famous Korean poem that cautions the white egret to maintain its grace by avoiding crows.
Situated alongside Bogang Stream, Baekro Park offers a serene setting with wooden pedestrian bridge spanning the water, a popular spot for photography.
During autumn, the park becomes a tapestry of red, orange, and gold, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts. Its benches and open spaces provide peaceful spots for relaxation or picnics, while the nearby downtown area makes it a convenient escape for locals.
As part of the Ocheon Bike Path, Baekro Park is a waypoint for cyclists. The park’s section of the bike path is adorned with artistically carved wooden trees, adding an aesthetic touch to the ride. The Baekro Park Certification Center (백로공원 인증센터; map), where cyclists participating in Korea’s certification system can stamp their progress, sits near the entrance alongside sculptures of migratory birds.
Bogang Stream Cottonwood Forest
Bogang Stream originates from Samgi Stream and flows through expansive fields before joining the Miho Stream. For generations, it supported local farms and wildlife. In the 1970s, the local government began a reforestation project to plant cottonwoods along its banks, transforming the area into a shaded grove that now defines the park.
Bogang Stream Cottonwood Forest (보강천미루나무숲; map), which sits across Bogang Stream from Baekro Park, was later developed into an ecological preserve with recreational spaces and refuges for native plants, birds, and aquatic species.
The park features:
- Cottonwood Grove: A shaded canopy created by the cottonwoods provides shade for summer picnics and leisurely walks.
- Wetlands and Biodiversity: The park’s wetlands host 126 species of plants, 10 fish species, and 18 bird species, including white-breasted waterhens and egrets.
- Seasonal Blooms: Fields of zinnias, poppies, and cosmos provide year-round vibrance.
- Walking Trails: A 2.7-km loop leads visitors along wooden boardwalks, streamside paths, and trails beneath the cottonwoods.
- Cycling Path: The park connects to the Bogang Stream Greenway.
- “Meeting Space” Pavilion: Overlooking the grove, this tiered seating area features swings, hammocks, and colorful lighting displays.
Bird Watching
Bogang Stream Cottonwood Forest and Baekro Park are excellent locations for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons in spring and autumn. The wetlands and groves provide shelter and feeding grounds for a variety of bird species.
- Resident and Migratory Birds: The area is home to 18 recorded bird species, including white-breasted waterhens, egrets, herons, kingfishers, and spot-billed ducks. During migration periods, you may also spot species such as mandarin ducks and great cormorants resting along the stream.
- Prime Viewing Seasons:
- Spring (March ~ May): A peak time for migratory birds stopping along the wetlands, with increased activity in the early mornings and late afternoons.
- Summer (June ~ August): Egrets and herons become more active, often seen wading through the shallow waters or perched in the trees.
- Autumn (September ~ November): The changing foliage serves as a picturesque backdrop, with various waterfowl and songbirds passing through.
- Winter (December ~ February): Some species, including the spot-billed duck and Eurasian kestrel, remain in the area.
- Viewing Areas:
- Wetlands Boardwalk: Provides close-up views of wading birds and waterfowl.
- Streamside Lookout Points: Ideal for spotting kingfishers diving for fish.
- Cottonwood Grove Canopy: Birds nest high in the trees, making it a great place to observe them in a more wooded environment.
Facilities
- Parking: Free parking is available at both parks.
- Accessibility: Paved paths, wheelchair-friendly restrooms, and shaded seating.
- Nearby Amenities: Local cafes, markets, and restaurants offer regional specialties, including Jeungpyeong’s renowned shiitake mushrooms.
