Abau Wildlife Management Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · PA

Abau Wildlife Management Area

Abau Wildlife Management Area is a protected natural region in Pennsylvania offering diverse habitats ideal for wildlife observation, hunting, and outdoor recreation in a serene forested environment.

Wildlife Management Area3,2004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

3,200

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Abau Wildlife Management Area

Abau Wildlife Management Area is a protected natural region in Pennsylvania offering diverse habitats ideal for wildlife observation, hunting, and outdoor recreation in a serene forested environment.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Abau Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is located in Pennsylvania and managed to conserve wildlife habitats while providing public access for activities like hunting, hiking, and wildlife watching. The area primarily consists of mixed hardwood forests, wetlands, and stream corridors that support a range of species including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, and various songbirds. The terrain varies from gentle slopes to more rugged sections, allowing visitors of different skill levels to explore the WMA comfortably. Established to preserve critical habitats and maintain ecological balance, Abau WMA encompasses a mosaic of mature trees alongside regenerating clearcuts that enhance habitat diversity. Seasonal hunting is one of the primary uses, with well-maintained trails and public access roads serving visitors during hunting seasons and year-round for outdoor enthusiasts. While there are no extensive developed campgrounds within Abau WMA, dispersed camping and hiking opportunities provide a quiet retreat for visitors seeking solitude. The WMA is also recognized for its water features including small streams that attract fishing activities and waterfowl. Overall, Abau Wildlife Management Area offers an authentic outdoor experience centered on Pennsylvania’s natural wildlife and habitat conservation ethos.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Abau Wildlife Management Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Rich habitat supporting white-tailed deer and wild turkey populations✦ Network of forest and streamside trails ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing✦ Seasonal waterfowl hunting opportunities around wetlands and small ponds✦ Quiet, remote areas offering excellent birdwatching including migratory songbirds
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Abau Wildlife Management Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Abau Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Abau Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Abau Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Abau Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Abau Wildlife Management Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Abau Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; hunting permits required for hunters as per Pennsylvania state regulations.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Abau Wildlife Management Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Coudersport, Pennsylvania
⌖ 9.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Coudersport, Pennsylvania

Coudersport invites visitors to explore its secluded trails, dark skies, and aquatic adventures. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking quiet, natural beauty and is famous for its stargazing opportunities.

Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Galeton, Pennsylvania
⌖ 10.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Galeton, Pennsylvania

Galeton offers a peaceful escape for hikers, paddlers, and campers looking to explore the Pine Creek Gorge and surrounding forests. With quiet trails and stunning overlooks, it’s ideal for nature lovers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Ulysses, Pennsylvania
⌖ 12.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ulysses, Pennsylvania

Ulysses, Pennsylvania is a peaceful rural town ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking quiet hiking, backpacking, and paddling adventures in Susquehannock State Forest and surrounding wildlands.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Austin, Pennsylvania
⌖ 14.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Austin, Pennsylvania

Austin, Pennsylvania, is a tranquil getaway surrounded by forests and rivers, perfect for hiking, paddling, fishing, and wildlife watching. Its peaceful vibe and natural beauty make it ideal for travelers seeking quiet outdoor adventures.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Port Allegany, Pennsylvania
⌖ 22.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Port Allegany, Pennsylvania

Port Allegany offers outdoor lovers access to forest hiking, tranquil paddling on the Allegheny River, quality fishing, and winter snowshoeing. This small town is a quiet gateway to Allegheny National Forest adventures year-round.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for snowshoeing and winter hiking
Explore Town
Emporium, Pennsylvania
⌖ 25.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Emporium, Pennsylvania

Emporium is a peaceful gateway to the Allegheny National Forest, perfect for hiking, paddling, and snowmobiling. Visitors enjoy quiet trails, scenic river access, and abundant wildlife in all seasons.

Late Spring through Fall; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Abau Wildlife Management Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Untimed Inner-Tube Escapes on Upper Pine Creek
ADVEXPEDITION
Wellsboro, Pennsylvania
River TubeADV Bookable

Untimed Inner-Tube Escapes on Upper Pine Creek

Shuttle-served inner-tube rentals from Pine Creek Outfitters on Upper Pine Creek—typically a 1–2 hour lazy float you can stretch at will.

River TubePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip