Recreation Opportunities
The Mead and McMillan Marsh Wildlife Areas have something to offer every outdoor enthusiast!
Birdwatching
“The Mead is probably the best all around wildlife watching acreage in central Wisconsin.” ~ Birding in Central Wisconsin
Check out the Birds at the Mead or the Mead’s bird checklist.
Hunting
Principal huntable wildlife: Waterfowl, deer, bear, grouse, woodcock, squirrels and rabbits.
Visit the DNR’s website for hunting and trapping season dates and hunting regulations: Hunting Regulations and Hours Wisconsin DNR
Hiking, Biking (McMillan Marsh only) & Boating
The Mead offers about 80 miles of hiking trails and 3 easy walking trails around the Center. The 7 mile long walking trail, Berkhahn Flowage, is no longer accessible to bikes. This trail will take you out to the Cormorant Rookery located in the Little Birch Flowage. In the fall, refuge lines cross this trail from September 1 through November 30. The refuges are no access for any reason. The purpose of these refuges is to provide areas where migrating waterfowl can rest, feed, and not be disturbed by any human activity. They are posted with yellow refuge signs.
McMillan Marsh north of Marshfield contains a 5.5 mile seasonal biking trail which is open from May 1 through August 31. There are also numerous hiking trails which are open to enjoy except when the refuge lines are up, September 1 through November 30. The refuges are no access for any reason. The purpose of these refuges is to provide areas where migrating waterfowl can rest, feed, and not be disturbed by any human activity. They are posted with yellow refuge signs.
Wildlife Watching
A list of links to the types of animals that can be found at Mead and elsewhere in Wisconsin is located at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ (EEK! ) website.
Dog Training
The Wisconsin Association of Field Trial Clubs (WAFTC) and the Pointing Gun Dog Association (PGDA) are just two of the organizations that use the Mead property for trials and events. Contact the Mead for Dog Trial events.
Education
Explore the website to learn more about educational opportunities and the local history.