Spread Eagle Barrens State Natural Area

A 7,400-acre, state-owned barrens; an area of undulating terrain with many small, clear lakes. Managed by fire, the barrens are interrupted with patches of mixed hardwood and conifer. The Pine River, a state-designated wild river, splits the acreage. There are many dirt roads, ample gravel parking, and good access.

Directions: The heart of the barrens is about 8 miles southeast of Florence. (For a map, stop at the Wild Rivers Interpretive Center in Florence at the corner of Hwys. 2 and 70/101.) You can access the northern portion of the barrens by traveling east of Florence on Hwys. 2/141, turn south on Condroski Road (2 miles east of Florence), or on Ellwood Lake Road (7 miles east of Florence). You can access the southern portion of the barrens by traveling south of Florence 7 miles on Cty. N, then east on Fire Lane Road.

Gazetteer: Page 91, A-7.

Phone: 888/889-0049 (Wild Rivers Interpretive Center).

Web site: Spread Eagle Barrens State Natural Area

Signature Species: Northern Harrier, Upland Sandpipers, Warbling Vireo.

Seasonality: Best in spring, summer and fall; secondary roads are not plowed in winter.

Nearest food & lodging: Florence, 8 miles northwest.