Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in Merrimack County, New Hampshire, the Pennesseewassee Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA) encompasses approximately 1,135 acres of primarily wetland habitat, including marshes, open water, and forested uplands. The area centers around Pennesseewassee Lake and surrounding wetlands, providing crucial habitat for migratory waterfowl, songbirds, and other wildlife. The wetlands support diverse flora including cattails, wild rice, and hardwood swamp vegetation, fostering an important ecological niche within the region. Established and managed by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, the WMA serves primarily as a sanctuary for wildlife conservation and a public outdoor recreation area. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations when waterfowl like ducks and geese are abundant. The area also offers hunting opportunities in regulated seasons, particularly for waterfowl and deer. There are several walking trails and boardwalks that provide scenic views over the lake and marshes, allowing visitors to explore the delicate habitats without disturbing wildlife. Anglers may find opportunities for fishing in the lake and connected waters, targeting species such as bass and pickerel. The flat terrain and wetland environment make Pennesseewassee Lake WMA accessible for easy hiking, photography, and snowshoeing in winter. Given its valuable role in maintaining biological diversity and supporting native species, the area attracts naturalists, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a quiet and wildlife-rich setting close to Concord, NH. Its combination of protected wetlands, open water, and forested areas underscores the importance of habitat preservation in New England’s rapidly developing landscapes.
