Pulling County Wildlife Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Area · Wisconsin

Pulling County Wildlife Area

Pulling County Wildlife Area offers expansive habitats dedicated to wildlife conservation and diverse outdoor recreation including hunting, birdwatching, and hiking in central Wisconsin.

Wildlife Area34004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Area

Total Wilderness Area

3400

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Pulling County Wildlife Area

Pulling County Wildlife Area offers expansive habitats dedicated to wildlife conservation and diverse outdoor recreation including hunting, birdwatching, and hiking in central Wisconsin.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Pulling County Wildlife Area spans over 3,400 acres of varied landscapes located in central Wisconsin, primarily within Marathon County. The area consists of a mix of wetlands, hardwood forests, grasslands, and open fields that provide critical habitat for numerous game and non-game species. Established in 1947 with the purpose of conserving native wildlife and supporting sustainable hunting opportunities, the wildlife area is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Visitors to Pulling County Wildlife Area can explore a network of trails and access points that accommodate birdwatchers, hikers, and hunters throughout different seasons. Waterfowl are particularly abundant in the wetland complexes, making the area a popular destination for waterfowl hunting and spring/fall migration viewing. The forested sections support deer, turkey, and small game populations. The wildlife area is not only a prime hunting ground but also a valuable natural classroom for ecological studies and seasonal wildlife observations. Access points and parking areas are well-maintained, and the region is quiet and largely undeveloped, providing a natural escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The area's management focuses on maintaining habitat diversity through prescribed burns and resource monitoring to balance recreation with wildlife conservation. Pulling County Wildlife Area represents a key example of Wisconsin's commitment to protecting important wildlife habitats while offering year-round outdoor recreational opportunities.

Field Guide · Wildlife Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Pulling County Wildlife Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Extensive wetland complexes supporting diverse waterfowl populations✦ Habitat management practices including controlled burns enhancing native plant growth✦ Seasonal hunting opportunities for deer, turkey, and waterfowl✦ Quiet, low-impact hiking trails ideal for birdwatching and wildlife photography
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Pulling County Wildlife Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Pulling County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Pulling County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Pulling County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Pulling County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Pulling County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Pulling County 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 Pulling County Wildlife Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; hunting requires appropriate Wisconsin licenses and 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 Pulling County Wildlife Area

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

Schofield, Wisconsin
⌖ 1.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Schofield, Wisconsin

Schofield, Wisconsin offers outdoor lovers river paddling, mountain biking, and hiking trails with easy access to Wisconsin River scenery and nearby state parks. It’s a solid year-round destination featuring cross-country skiing in winter and abundant wildlife watching.

Late Spring through Early Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Rothschild, Wisconsin
⌖ 2.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rothschild, Wisconsin

Rothschild, Wisconsin offers outdoor lovers quiet river paddling, easy hiking, and enjoyable mountain biking trails. Experience peaceful fishing spots and cross-country skiing in a small-town setting with access to the Wisconsin River’s natural beauty.

Late Spring to Early Fall for water and trail activities; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Wausau, Wisconsin
⌖ 2.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wausau, Wisconsin

Wausau is a Midwest outdoor destination famed for Rib Mountain’s hiking and skiing, paddling on the Wisconsin River, and extensive biking trails. With year-round activities, it’s a solid basecamp for adventure seekers exploring central Wisconsin.

Spring through Fall for hiking & paddling; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Kronenwetter, Wisconsin
⌖ 6.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kronenwetter, Wisconsin

Kronenwetter offers a peaceful outdoor escape with its forests, wetlands, and gentle waterways. It's perfect for hiking, paddling, birdwatching, and winter snow sports, making it a hidden gem for nature lovers in central Wisconsin.

Late Spring through Early Fall; Winter for snow activities
Explore Town
Mosinee, Wisconsin
⌖ 9.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mosinee, Wisconsin

Mosinee, Wisconsin offers peaceful outdoor escapes with hiking, paddling, and winter skiing. Surrounded by forest and lake waters, it’s a quiet spot for nature lovers seeking year-round adventure in central Wisconsin.

Late Spring through Fall and Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Merrill, Wisconsin
⌖ 18.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Merrill, Wisconsin

Merrill offers outdoor lovers peaceful river paddling, forest hikes, and extensive winter trails for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. This Wisconsin town is a quiet basecamp with easy access to nature year-round.

Spring through Fall for paddling, hiking, and biking; Winter for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Pulling County Wildlife Area

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

A Full-Day Farm Takeover: Group Weekends at Grampa’s Farm in Merrill
ADVEXPEDITION
Merrill, Wisconsin
FarmADV Bookable

A Full-Day Farm Takeover: Group Weekends at Grampa’s Farm in Merrill

Group general admission to Grampa’s Farm covers all activities — from the corn maze to milking demonstrations — on select weekends; this guide distills the hours, pricing and group rules so you can plan a single‑transaction booking for 25 or more people.

FarmPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip