Oak Hammock Marsh wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · MB

Oak Hammock Marsh

Oak Hammock Marsh is a significant wetland in Manitoba known for its rich biodiversity and exceptional opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.

Wildlife Management Area8,6464+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

8,646

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Oak Hammock Marsh

Oak Hammock Marsh is a significant wetland in Manitoba known for its rich biodiversity and exceptional opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Oak Hammock Marsh is a 35 square kilometer wetland located approximately 20 kilometers north of Winnipeg, Manitoba. It is one of the most important waterfowl habitats in the Canadian prairie region, providing refuge and nesting grounds for hundreds of species of birds, including several migratory waterfowl. The marsh consists of lakes, peatlands, shallow water, and grasslands, supporting a diverse ecosystem of plants and wildlife. Established as a Wildlife Management Area in 1967, Oak Hammock Marsh is managed by Ducks Unlimited Canada and Manitoba Conservation with a focus on habitat preservation and public education. Visitors can explore the extensive network of trails and boardwalks that wind through the marsh, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and environmental interpretation. The Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre features exhibits on wetland ecology, waterfowl migration, and local conservation efforts. Seasonal activities include guided tours, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The area is also a critical stopover for migratory birds on the Central Flyway. Oak Hammock Marsh appeals to naturalists, photographers, and families seeking outdoor recreation close to Winnipeg’s urban center while providing important conservation benefits to local and migratory species.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Oak Hammock Marsh

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Extensive boardwalk system providing close-up views of wetlands and waterfowl✦ Home to over 280 species of birds including rare and migratory species✦ Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre with educational exhibits and programs✦ Canoeing and kayaking opportunities in designated areas of the marsh
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Oak Hammock Marsh

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Oak Hammock Marsh
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Oak Hammock Marsh
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Oak Hammock Marsh
Park Recreation

Canoeing

Available in Oak Hammock Marsh
Park Recreation

Educational Tours

Available in Oak Hammock Marsh
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Oak Hammock Marsh.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access with no permits required; donations accepted at the Interpretive Centre

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 Oak Hammock Marsh

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

Lockport, Manitoba
⌖ 5.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lockport, Manitoba

Lockport, Manitoba offers outdoor lovers tranquil paddling on the Red River, peaceful hiking and birdwatching, plus winter skiing nearby. It’s a friendly small town with easy access to riverside trails and heritage sites.

Late Spring to Early Fall for paddling and hiking, Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Selkirk, Manitoba
⌖ 7.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Selkirk, Manitoba

Selkirk, Manitoba sits on the Red River offering easy access to hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, and winter skiing. This friendly town is ideal for outdoor lovers seeking peaceful waterfront trails and seasonal adventure.

Late spring to early fall and winter for snow activities
Explore Town
East Selkirk, Manitoba
⌖ 8.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

East Selkirk, Manitoba

East Selkirk is a quiet town on the Red River offering paddling, hiking, and winter sports in Manitoba’s scenic Interlake region. It’s perfect for travelers seeking peaceful water trails, birdwatching, and family-friendly outdoor adventures.

Late spring to early fall for warm-weather activities; winter for snow sports.
Explore Town
Birds Hill, Manitoba
⌖ 11.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Birds Hill, Manitoba

Birds Hill is a vibrant outdoor destination near Winnipeg featuring hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and camping in a scenic provincial park. Open year-round with trails for all skill levels and family-friendly amenities.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Stonewall, Manitoba
⌖ 13.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Stonewall, Manitoba

Stonewall, Manitoba offers easy hiking around limestone cliffs, paddling on scenic Lake Minnewasta, and cross-country skiing in winter. Ideal for travelers seeking low-key outdoor adventures near a welcoming small town.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Whiteshell, Manitoba
⌖ 16.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Whiteshell, Manitoba

Whiteshell, Manitoba, is a wild playground of lakes, trails, and forests offering hiking, canoeing, fishing, skiing, and camping. With a welcoming small-town vibe and rugged natural beauty, it’s a top spot for authentic Canadian outdoor adventure.

Late spring to early fall for paddling and hiking; winter for skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Oak Hammock Marsh

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

Two in a Boat: Tandem Kayaking at Falcon Lake
ADVEXPEDITION
Whiteshell, Manitoba
KayakADV Bookable

Two in a Boat: Tandem Kayaking at Falcon Lake

Rent a tandem kayak from Falcon Lake Marina in Whiteshell — options run from one-hour outings to full-day rentals and this guide explains what to expect on the water.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Pedal-Light Through Assiniboine: An Open-Air Surrey Loop
ADVEXPEDITION
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Bike RentalADV Bookable

Pedal-Light Through Assiniboine: An Open-Air Surrey Loop

A relaxed, 90-minute open-air Surrey tour that guides families and friends through Assiniboine Park’s trails and gardens and explains where to meet and what to expect.

Bike RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Secrets & Spectres: Candlelit Mysteries at Dalnavert
ADVEXPEDITION
Winnipeg, Manitoba
History TourADV Bookable

Secrets & Spectres: Candlelit Mysteries at Dalnavert

An immersive, escape-room–style evening inside a Victorian mansion in Winnipeg where you solve eerie puzzles and follow hidden clues; this guide distills what to expect and who the experience suits.

History TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip