Brown County Wildlife Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Area · Wisconsin

Brown County Wildlife Area

Brown County Wildlife Area is a diverse natural refuge in northeastern Wisconsin offering excellent wildlife observation, hiking, and seasonal hunting opportunities in a mix of forest, wetland, and grassland habitats.

Wildlife Area2,0504+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,050

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Brown County Wildlife Area

Brown County Wildlife Area is a diverse natural refuge in northeastern Wisconsin offering excellent wildlife observation, hiking, and seasonal hunting opportunities in a mix of forest, wetland, and grassland habitats.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Brown County Wildlife Area encompasses over 2,000 acres of protected forests, wetlands, prairies, and open fields in proximity to the urban centers of Green Bay and Brown County, Wisconsin. This wildlife area serves as an important habitat for a variety of native species including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, waterfowl, and numerous songbirds, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. The landscape offers a mosaic of ecosystems, with restored prairie patches, hardwood forests, and marshy wetlands supporting diverse flora and fauna. Established to conserve habitat and provide public recreation, the area is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). Visitors can explore multiple hiking trails and seasonal waterfowl hunting zones, as well as enjoy photography and wildlife observation year-round. Brown County Wildlife Area also emphasizes habitat restoration and invasive species management to support native biodiversity. With several access points and well-marked trails, the wildlife area appeals to casual visitors as well as experienced outdoorspeople. Its proximity to Green Bay makes it a convenient natural escape offering peaceful surroundings and excellent opportunities to experience Wisconsin’s native landscapes and wildlife without venturing far from town.

Field Guide · Wildlife Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Brown County Wildlife Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Expansive prairie restoration sites showcasing native grasses and wildflowers✦ Opportunities for viewing migratory waterfowl and native bird species✦ Designated seasonal upland and waterfowl hunting areas✦ Quiet, less-trafficked trails for peaceful wildlife observation
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Brown County Wildlife Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Brown County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Brown County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Brown County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Brown County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Brown County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Brown County Wildlife 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 Brown County Wildlife Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; no permits required for general day use. Hunting licenses required during seasons.

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 Brown County Wildlife Area

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

Bellevue, Wisconsin
⌖ 1.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bellevue, Wisconsin

Bellevue, Wisconsin, offers a refreshing blend of river paddling, hiking, and mountain biking just outside Green Bay. With accessible trails and the serene Fox River, it’s a perfect spot for outdoor adventurers seeking varied and manageable terrain.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Allouez, Wisconsin
⌖ 4.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Allouez, Wisconsin

Allouez offers a peaceful riverside setting with easy access to hiking, biking, kayaking, and winter sports. Ideal for visitors seeking outdoor relaxation along Wisconsin’s Fox River.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Pecatonica, Wisconsin
⌖ 4.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pecatonica, Wisconsin

Pecatonica, Wisconsin is a quiet rural town ideal for paddling the scenic river, easy hikes, and winter snow sports. It’s a peaceful base for travelers seeking nature away from busy tourist spots.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Green Bay, Wisconsin
⌖ 5.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Green Bay, Wisconsin

Green Bay offers outdoor enthusiasts a blend of water sports, hiking, and biking with scenic riverfronts and protected wildlife areas. Winter adds snowshoeing and seasonal events, making it a versatile year-round destination.

Late Spring through Early Fall for water and trail activities; Winter for snowshoeing and cold-weather sports
Explore Town
De Pere, Wisconsin
⌖ 6.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

De Pere, Wisconsin

De Pere offers a calm outdoor escape with riverside paddling, scenic biking and hiking along the Fox River Trail, and fun winter activities like ice fishing and cross-country skiing nearby.

Late Spring through Early Fall for water activities and trail use; Winter for ice fishing and skiing
Explore Town
Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin
⌖ 6.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin

Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin offers easy river paddling, scenic biking on the Fox River State Trail, and family-friendly wildlife viewing. With parks, gentle hiking, and winter options nearby, it’s a solid base for outdoor recreation close to Green Bay.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Brown County Wildlife Area

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

Solo on the Surface: Single Kayak Days in Suamico
ADVEXPEDITION
Suamico, Wisconsin
KayakADV Bookable

Solo on the Surface: Single Kayak Days in Suamico

Single kayak rentals from Suamico Paddle let you pick a rental length, strap on a provided life vest, and spend a refreshing day gliding across the water—this guide explains what to wear, what to bring, and the rental options to expect.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Quarry Calm: Two Hours on Howard’s Glassy Water
ADVEXPEDITION
Howard, Wisconsin
KayakADV Bookable

Quarry Calm: Two Hours on Howard’s Glassy Water

Rent singles or tandems at Howard Duck Creek Quarry — two-hour sessions that include a life jacket and paddle; this guide explains what to expect and how to access your rental.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Chicago Unbound: A Delivered Kayak Lets You Set Your Own Course
ADVEXPEDITION
Chicago, Illinois
Self-Guided TourADV Bookable

Chicago Unbound: A Delivered Kayak Lets You Set Your Own Course

Self-guided single- or tandem-kayak rentals (2- or 4-hour options) with delivery to the launch of your choosing — a flexible option for paddlers who want independent time on the water.

Self-Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip