Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in central Pennsylvania, Hershey State Wildlife Management Area encompasses 1,416 acres of mixed hardwood forests, clear streams, and rolling hills along the ridges of the Appalachian Plateau. The area is managed primarily for wildlife habitat conservation, with an emphasis on game species such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various small game. The topography and mature forest types provide a rich ecosystem supporting numerous songbirds, raptors, and native plant communities. Established in 1975, the area was named after the Hershey family, reflecting the region's cultural ties. Visitors to Hershey WMA enjoy diverse outdoor recreation ranging from hunting and trapping in season, to hiking and wildlife watching year-round. There are no developed campgrounds within the area, making it a prime destination for day use and remote backcountry exploration. A network of informal trails and forest roads provides access through hardwood stands and along brushy ridges, offering scenic overlooks and quiet solitude. The WMA's proximity to nearby towns and state game lands contributes to a larger landscape of Pennsylvania's outdoor resources. Hershey WMA's natural features and wildlife values make it an appealing destination for hunters, birders, hikers, and photographers wanting to experience the varied habitats of central Pennsylvania’s wild forests and streams.
