Crivitz Wildlife Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · WI

Crivitz Wildlife Area

Crivitz Wildlife Area in northeastern Wisconsin offers diverse habitats popular for wildlife viewing, hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation in a peaceful natural setting.

Wildlife Management Area7,8004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

7,800

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Crivitz Wildlife Area

Crivitz Wildlife Area in northeastern Wisconsin offers diverse habitats popular for wildlife viewing, hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation in a peaceful natural setting.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Crivitz Wildlife Area spans approximately 7,800 acres of mixed forest, wetlands, and grasslands located in Marinette County, Wisconsin. Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the area was established in the mid-20th century primarily to conserve habitat for native wildlife species and to offer a venue for hunting and outdoor enthusiasts. The landscape supports a variety of flora and fauna including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and abundant small game. The area includes extensive wetland complexes that provide critical breeding grounds for amphibians and migratory birds. Recreation opportunities include hunting seasons for deer, turkey, waterfowl, and small game, along with fishing in the area's small ponds and streams. Trails for hiking, birdwatching, and cross-country skiing provide year-round access, with mountain biking being popular in warmer months. The Crivitz Wildlife Area is well-regarded for its solitude and wildlife diversity, appealing to photographers, hunters, and naturalists alike. Small access points and parking lots give opportunities to explore sections of this mostly undeveloped area. The site’s proximity to the town of Crivitz offers convenient amenities while allowing visitors to enjoy largely undisturbed habitats. Conservation efforts focus on habitat restoration, wetland preservation, and invasive species control to maintain the ecological balance and promote healthy wildlife populations. Visitors value the area's quiet atmosphere and the chance to experience Wisconsin’s natural ecosystems away from busier parks or forests.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Crivitz Wildlife Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Diverse wetlands and upland habitats supporting abundant waterfowl and songbirds✦ Popular waterfowl and deer hunting opportunities in managed zones✦ Remote hiking and wildlife observation trails with minimal crowds✦ Winter cross-country skiing routes across forested and open areas
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Crivitz Wildlife Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Crivitz Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Crivitz Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Crivitz Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Crivitz Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Crivitz Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Cross-Country Skiing

Available in Crivitz Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Crivitz 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 Crivitz Wildlife Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access for general recreation; hunting requires state licenses and specific permits.

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 Crivitz Wildlife Area

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

Crivitz, Wisconsin
⌖ 10.66 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Crivitz, Wisconsin

Crivitz offers outdoor enthusiasts quiet access to hiking, biking, paddling, and winter sports on the edge of Wisconsin’s Nicolet National Forest. It’s an ideal spot for exploring forests, lakes, and trails with a friendly small-town feel.

Late Spring to Early Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Wausaukee, Wisconsin
⌖ 11.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wausaukee, Wisconsin

Wausaukee is a peaceful small town in northeastern Wisconsin offering hiking, paddling, and snowmobiling amid forested rivers and trails. It’s a great base for outdoor lovers seeking quiet nature and seasonal fun.

Late Spring through Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Marinette, Wisconsin
⌖ 13.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Marinette, Wisconsin

Marinette offers a refreshing outdoor getaway with river paddling, forest hiking, and winter skiing nearby. Surrounded by protected lands and scenic waterways, it’s ideal for travelers who enjoy nature and quieter adventure.

Late Spring through Fall for warm weather activities; Winter for skiing and snow sports
Explore Town
Menominee, Michigan
⌖ 13.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Menominee, Michigan

Menominee, Michigan, is a lakeside town ideal for outdoor lovers seeking quiet hiking, paddling, fishing, and snowmobiling. Enjoy peaceful trails, shoreline views, and seasonal adventures in the Upper Peninsula’s natural beauty.

Late Spring through Early Fall; Winter for Snowmobiling
Explore Town
Peshtigo, Wisconsin
⌖ 13.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Peshtigo, Wisconsin

Peshtigo, Wisconsin offers quiet access to hiking, paddling, snowmobiling, and fishing amid scenic forests and rivers. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking peaceful outdoor adventures with a rich local history.

Late spring through early fall for hiking and paddling; winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Town of Silver Cliff, Wisconsin
⌖ 22.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Town of Silver Cliff, Wisconsin

The Town of Silver Cliff, Wisconsin, offers a peaceful rural adventure with hiking, paddling, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Enjoy nature’s quiet beauty in well-preserved forests and waterways year-round.

Late spring through early fall, with a strong winter season for snow sports
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Crivitz Wildlife Area

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