Koshkonong Wildlife Area
Koshkonong Wildlife Area started as a scattered wetland purchase, with protecting the high-quality wetland adjacent to the lake being the primary concern. In 1990, the decision was made to make the area into a full wildlife area project, which would provide the opportunity to increase the acquisition of adjacent lands. This action provided an improvement to hunting and wildlife watching opportunities and better protects the wetlands.
Currently, the wildlife area is approximately 800 acres of high-quality deep-water marsh, which transitions into shrub carr and bottomland hardwoods. The Rock River flows along the present northern boundary and the Lake Koshkonong shore forms the wildlife area’s western boundary. On the south side of the property, there is a small portion of uplands primarily consisting of existing and restored oak savanna.
The Rock River can be accessed by a boat launch to the northeast off the west end of Groeller Road. On the west side of Koshkonong Wildlife Area, Lake Koshkonong can be accessed by a boat launch located at the north end of Vinnie Haha Road off of Mounds Road.
To find Koshkonong Wildlife Area, go south of Fort Atkinson on U.S. Highway 26 and watch for access to Old Highway 26 on the west side of the highway. Head south on Old Highway 26 to Mounds Road, turn west and the southernmost parking lot is immediately on the right or north side.
Management Objectives
The habitat management objectives for Koshkonong Wildlife Area are protecting, maintaining, and restoring native flora to the property. The management techniques employed include prescribed fire, brush control, and other invasive species removal efforts.
The Glacial Heritage Area master plan was completed in 2011 and guides the long-term management of this property. Visit the property planning page for more information on master planning for this and other wildlife areas around the state.
Recreation
The Koshkonong Wildlife Area offers many recreational opportunities:
- Birding
- Canoeing
- Cross-country skiing (no designated trail)
- Fishing
- Hiking (no designated trail)
- Hunting (noted for waterfowl, deer, turkey, dove and some pheasant)
- Kayaking
- Snowmobiling trail
- Trapping
- Wild edibles/gathering
- Wildlife viewing
Amenities
- Bathroom - none.
- Parking lot - currently there are 4 lots – one is a boat launch off Groeller Road, one is the boat launch to Lake Koshkonong on Vinnie Haha Rd, and one lot is Seasonal and closed for access during the winter months.
- Campground and size - none.
- Trails, Types and Lengths - no official trails are maintained for public use, only staff lanes for access, fire breaks, or other management.
Maps
Download [PDF] a map of this property.
If you are interested in exploring this property further, you can access an interactive map.
