Mined Land Wildlife Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · Pennsylvania

Mined Land Wildlife Area

Mined Land Wildlife Area is a restored landscape in northeastern Pennsylvania offering diverse habitats for wildlife and opportunities for hunting, hiking, and nature observation.

Wildlife Management Area3,5004+ Trails
DesignationWildlife Management Area
Total Wilderness Area3,500
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Mined Land Wildlife Area

Mined Land Wildlife Area is a restored landscape in northeastern Pennsylvania offering diverse habitats for wildlife and opportunities for hunting, hiking, and nature observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Mined Land Wildlife Area is located in northeastern Pennsylvania, covering reclaimed lands that were historically used for coal mining. This wildlife area is managed to provide habitat for a variety of species, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and numerous songbirds. The landscape includes reclaimed forests, wetlands, grasslands, and ponds created as part of reclamation efforts following extensive surface mining operations. The area offers public access for hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. Visitors can explore miles of trails winding through young forests and wetlands, making it a rewarding location for birders and naturalists. The history of the land's previous mining use contrasts with its current role in wildlife conservation, showing how ecosystems can be restored to support biodiversity. In addition to hunting and wildlife viewing, the area supports angling in several ponds and small lakes. The Mined Land Wildlife Area is a key example of how post-industrial landscapes can be returned to productive natural habitats, encouraging public outdoor recreation while enhancing local ecosystems. This site appeals to hunters, hikers, photographers, and anyone interested in the intersection of natural recovery and recreation.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Mined Land Wildlife Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Reclaimed mining ponds teeming with fish and waterfowl✦ Diverse habitats supporting populations of white-tailed deer and wild turkey✦ Trail network through recovering forests and wetlands✦ Opportunities to witness successful ecological restoration in a previously mined landscape
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Mined Land Wildlife Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Mined Land Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Mined Land Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Mined Land Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Mined Land Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Mined Land Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Mined Land Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Trail Running

Available in Mined Land 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 Mined Land Wildlife Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; Pennsylvania hunting licenses required during hunting seasons.

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 Mined Land Wildlife Area

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

Hazleton, Pennsylvania
⌖ 6.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hazleton, Pennsylvania

Hazleton offers access to tranquil hiking, fishing, and paddling in the foothills of the Poconos. Explore scenic state parks, enjoy winter snow sports, and experience a quiet outdoor escape with local small-town charm.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
White Haven, Pennsylvania
⌖ 6.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

White Haven, Pennsylvania

White Haven, Pennsylvania, offers excellent access to river paddling, hiking, and mountain biking in the scenic Pocono Mountains. With Lehigh Gorge State Park nearby, outdoor lovers can enjoy diverse trails, trout fishing, and seasonal winter sports.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Weatherly, Pennsylvania
⌖ 7.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Weatherly, Pennsylvania

Weatherly, Pennsylvania is a quiet town perfect for hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and fishing. Serving as a gateway to Nescopeck State Park and the Lehigh River, it offers rustic adventure amid peaceful Appalachian foothills.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Nanticoke, Pennsylvania
⌖ 12.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nanticoke, Pennsylvania

Nanticoke offers quiet river paddling, easy hiking trails, and peaceful parks perfect for outdoor lovers seeking calm nature experiences in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
⌖ 13.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Jim Thorpe is a charming town offering adventures in the Pocono Mountains. Whether whitewater rafting the Lehigh River or hiking scenic trails, it promises excitement and beauty year-round.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Plymouth, Pennsylvania
⌖ 14.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Plymouth, Pennsylvania

Plymouth, Pennsylvania, offers quiet outdoor escapes along the Susquehanna River with easy hiking, paddling, and biking options. Ideal for travelers seeking a less crowded natural base near forest preserves and river parks.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Mined Land Wildlife Area

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

Axe Throwing
ADVEXPEDITION
Forty Fort, Pennsylvania
Axe ThrowingADV Bookable

Axe Throwing

Looking for a rugged thrill without leaving the city? Discover axe throwing at The Hatchet Factory, where primal fun meets urban excitement. Read on to find out what makes this activity a must-try.

Axe ThrowingAges 6+ • 90 MinutesCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Summer & Fall Reindeer Farm Tour + Meet the Babies!
ADVEXPEDITION
Albrightsville, Pennsylvania
FarmADV Bookable

Summer & Fall Reindeer Farm Tour + Meet the Babies!

Visit Spruce Ridge Reindeer Farm in Albrightsville, PA, for a private tour where you can meet friendly reindeer, feed them fresh willow leaves, and enjoy the fall baby reindeer. Perfect for families and animal lovers looking for a unique outdoor experience.

FarmAll Ages • 1 Hour • Available in 2024!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Eight Miles of Family-First Rafting out of Lehighton
ADVEXPEDITION
Lehighton, Pennsylvania
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Eight Miles of Family-First Rafting out of Lehighton

An 8-mile, 3-hour EasyWater Rafting run with Jim Thorpe River Adventures — a natural, family- and beginner-friendly float that mixes playful rapids with swim-ready pools and practical tips for planning your day.

Water ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Same Day Round Trip - Wayne - WC1
ADVEXPEDITION
Wayne, New Jersey
Guided TourADV Bookable

Same Day Round Trip - Wayne - WC1

Looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy a day of gaming at Wind Creek Casino? This round-trip bus service from Wayne offers comfort, convenience, and fun—perfect for a quick getaway.

Guided Tour1 Hour 30 Minutes Each Way • Safe, Reliable and Clean TransportationCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip