Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · New Brunswick

Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area

Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area offers a vast natural habitat in northwestern New Brunswick, renowned for its diverse wildlife and excellent opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching.

Wildlife Management Area22,000+4+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

22,000+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area

Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area offers a vast natural habitat in northwestern New Brunswick, renowned for its diverse wildlife and excellent opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area (WMA) spans over 22,000 acres of forested and wetland habitats in Victoria County, northwestern New Brunswick. The landscape is characterized by mixed hardwood and softwood forests, wetlands, rivers, and small lakes, providing critical habitat for a variety of wildlife species including moose, white-tailed deer, black bear, and numerous bird species. The area is managed primarily for wildlife conservation, hunting, and outdoor recreation by the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources. Historically, this region has supported traditional uses including hunting and trapping and has seen increasing interest for recreational outdoor activities. Visitors to the WMA can engage in hunting during designated seasons, fishing in local waterways, hiking through extensive forest trails, and birdwatching, with a rich diversity of species especially notable during migration periods. The region is also valued for its winter snowmobiling and cross-country skiing opportunities. The Plaster Rock WMA does not contain developed visitor facilities but offers a natural setting for remote backcountry experiences. Its proximity to the small town of Plaster Rock provides convenient access to services and supplies. This area is a destination for those seeking wildlife immersion, quiet forest landscapes, and varied seasonal activities on public lands dedicated to preserving ecological integrity and sustainable outdoor use.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Extensive mixed forest habitats supporting diverse wildlife✦ Prime moose and white-tailed deer hunting grounds✦ Natural wetlands attracting migratory waterfowl and songbirds✦ Seasonal snowmobiling routes and winter trails
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area

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

Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Snowmobiling

Available in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Cross-Country Skiing

Available in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Photography

Available in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Canoeing

Available in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Trail Running

Available in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management 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 Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits required for day use; hunting and fishing licenses required for regulated activities.

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).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Wilderness & Developed Camping Regulations

Camping is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area. Most frontcountry campgrounds require advance reservations on Recreation.gov during peak season, while backcountry camping requires a wilderness permit and certified bear-resistant food canisters.

Find Campgrounds on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area

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

Plaster Rock, New Brunswick
⌖ 24.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Plaster Rock, New Brunswick

Plaster Rock offers outdoor lovers prime paddling on the Southwest Miramichi River, expansive snowmobiling trails, and peaceful hiking in New Brunswick’s scenic Appalachian foothills. Year-round adventure meets small-town charm here.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Limestone, Maine
⌖ 34.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Limestone, Maine

Limestone, Maine offers peaceful outdoor recreation with forest trails, paddling on calm rivers, and winter snowmobiling. Its quiet rural landscape is ideal for travelers seeking nature away from crowds.

Late Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowmobiling and skiing
Explore Town
Perth-Andover, New Brunswick
⌖ 40.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Perth-Andover, New Brunswick

Perth-Andover is a quiet riverside town in New Brunswick perfect for paddlers, hikers, and anglers. Explore calm rivers, forest trails, and peaceful camping spots year-round with options for winter skiing.

Late Spring to Early Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Fort Fairfield, Maine
⌖ 41.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Fairfield, Maine

Fort Fairfield is a peaceful Maine town ideal for paddling, bird watching, and winter skiing. Its quiet trails, river routes, and wildlife refuges offer calm outdoor adventures away from crowds.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snow sports like skiing and snowshoeing
Explore Town
Maine Township 3, Range 5, Maine
⌖ 42.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Maine Township 3, Range 5, Maine

Maine Township 3, Range 5 offers a quiet outdoor escape with hiking, paddling, fishing, and snowmobiling amid vast forests and lakes. Ideal for travelers seeking remote wilderness and authentic Maine adventures.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Madawaska, Maine
⌖ 49.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Madawaska, Maine

Madawaska, Maine is a northern wilderness town where hiking, paddling, and winter sports thrive alongside the scenic Saint John River. With quiet forests and plentiful wildlife, it’s an ideal spot for travelers seeking authentic outdoor experiences off the usual routes.

Late Spring through Early Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowmobiling and skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Plaster Rock Wildlife Management Area

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