Hay Creek Wildlife Area
Hay Creek Wildlife Area is a 387-acre property approximately 3 miles southwest of Sand Creek on State Highway 64. This property is divided into two units. This property may be accessed by parking along the roadsides on 850th Street or 780th Street, or from a small parking lot on the north side of Highway 64 across from 810th Street. Hay Creek flows through this property from west to east and, along with the associated wetland/marsh, is the dominant feature on this wildlife area. The remaining portion of the property is primarily wooded.
Management Objectives
Acquisition of lands for the Hay Creek Wildlife Area occurred mostly in the early 1960s, with a final acquisition in 1973. The purpose was to protect and provide public access to Hay Creek and the associated wetland complex.
Historically, the management objective was to protect the trout waters of Hay Creek and provide wildlife habitat for species that utilize wetlands and woods. These same objectives remain true today.
Primary management on this property involves management of the woodlands. The property is monitored for invasive species. Use of forest management and timber sales help maintain a healthy, vigorous woodland for wildlife.
For more information on master planning for this and other wildlife areas around the state, visit the property planning page.
Recreation
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The Hay Creek Wildlife Area offers many recreational opportunities:
- Birding;
- Cross-country skiing (no designated trail);
- Fishing;
- Hiking (no designated trail);
- Hunting (especially noted for deer, bear, turkey, waterfowl and small game);
- Trapping;
- Wild edibles/gathering; and
- Wildlife viewing.
Maps
Download [PDF] a map of this property.
If you are interested in exploring this property further, you can access an interactive map.
Find out more about how to adopt this wildlife area.