Brillion State Wildlife Area

This 5,000-acre property offers 7.5 miles of trails for hiking and birding. There are many species of birds on the marsh, but of particular interest is the county’s largest population of Sandhill Cranes. A boardwalk trail leads to a large viewing platform that extends out into the marsh. From here you can view the cranes as well as nesting Osprey. Black terns fly over the marshes and Long-billed Marsh Wrens call from the cattails. Listen for the melodious screech of Yellow-headed Blackbirds as they call from watery perches in the marshes. Both the North Branch of the Manitowoc River and Spring Creek flow through the property.

Directions: South of Brillion, Cty PP connects to many parking areas on the east side of the property. Access the north and west sides vis Conservation, Bastian, Irish, Hilbert, Riemer, or Voss Roads.

Gazetteer: Page 55, C-7 (prior to 10th edition). | Page 72, E-2 (10th edition).

Phone: 920/832-1804 (Appleton DNR).

Web site: WDNR Brillion State Wildlife Area

Signature species: Osprey, Sandhill Crane, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Long-billed Marsh Wren and warblers.

Rare Species: Peregrine Falcon, Upland Sandpiper, Henslow’s Sparrow and Short-eared Owls.

Seasonality: Open all year.

Parking: Parking lots.

Nearest food & lodging: Brillion or Hilbert.