French Creek Wildlife Area

French Creek Wildlife Area – Columbia & Marquette CountiesFrench Creek Wildlife Area covers 3,645 acres of marshes, prairies, and oak woodlands in Columbia and Marquette Counties, about 6 miles northeast of Portage on Highway F. Once used for harvesting “wire grass” for rugs and hay for livestock, this land has deep roots—early settlers even hunted prairie chickens here.
Today, it’s all about waterfowl and wild habitat. The area features lush sedge meadows, fens, tamarack stands, and two designated State Natural Areas—French Creek Fen and French Creek North. It also includes a 240-acre waterfowl refuge and supports hunting, paddling, fishing (especially below the dam), hiking, and birdwatching.
Management is focused on preserving native e