Nature lovers, and especially animal lovers, listen up! In today’s blog, we’re embarking on a sightseeing expedition through Jefferson County. But this isn’t just any ordinary sight-seeing expedition…we’re on a mission to discover Wisconsin’s native wildlife, stopping by spectacular wildlife areas scattered throughout the county! Tag along with us as we share our top 3 places (plus more) to see wildlife in Jefferson County. Let’s go!
Jefferson Marsh Wildlife Area
Kicking off our expedition in Jefferson County, our first stop is Jefferson Marsh Wildlife Area, home to over 3,000 acres! Within this vast wildlife area is the Jefferson Tamarack Swamp State Natural Area–a 900-acre bog where an array of plant and animal species thrive.
On-site, visitors are welcome to explore by foot or even canoe. Even though there are no designated trails, access roads serve as a great starting point. With no set trails, it only adds to the great adventure ahead, whether you’re on a solo or family mission. As you navigate through the terrain, mostly wetlands, keep an eye out for waterfowl, pheasants, cranes, songbirds, turkeys, and much more!
Koshkonong Wildlife Area
Up next on our list of Jefferson County wildlife areas is the one-and-only Koshkonong Wildlife Area, totaling nearly 800 acres! Among these 800 acres, marshy areas and hardwoods plot the landscape, creating excellent habitat for all the local wildlife.
In addition, Koshkonong Wildlife Area is uniquely situated between access points to the Rock River and Lake Koshkonong, making this area the ultimate animal’s paradise! Pave your own pathway through the natural landscapes for a chance to spot both water-dwelling creatures, including waterfowl, and land-roaming creatures, such as native Wisconsin deer, rabbits, and turkeys, to name a few.
Lake Mills Wildlife Area
To Lake Mills Wildlife Area we go for more amazing opportunities for wildlife viewing! Lake Mills Wildlife Area comprises roughly 2,800 acres, filled with unique terrain, trails, and features that only add to the viewing experience.
With open-water marshes, prairie lands, and hardwoods, this area has an abundance of animal species just waiting to be spotted! Pack your binoculars and watch for them all, from migratory birds to year-round deer. The best part? On-site, there are several designated hiking trails–including the well-known Glacial Drumlin State Trail–so you can easily access prime lookouts. Want to make it a weekend adventure? Set up camp at nearby Sandhill Station Campground!
Other Noteworthy Wildlife Areas
We couldn’t explore all the wildlife areas… so here are a few more in Jefferson County well worth adding to your list:
-Price’s Point Wildlife Area (3,700 acres)
-Rome Pond Wildlife Area (2,500 acres)
-Waterloo Wildlife Area (4,000 acres)
-Lake District Preserve (207 acres)
-Cambridge Wildlife & Fishing Area (20 acres)
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We’ve shared our favorite hotspots, now it’s your turn to explore! Pack your gear and set out on your very own sightseeing expedition for native Wisconsin wildlife found throughout Jefferson County. Stop by some of the most remarkable wildlife areas, including Jefferson Marsh Wildlife Area, Koshkonong Wildlife Area, and Lake Mills Wildlife Area, plus SO many more.
Tell us about your sightseeing expedition in the comments below!
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Hailey Rose: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.
