Totagatic Lake State Wildlife Area

This 2,719-acre state owned property includes the Totagatic Flowage, created by a dam on Nelson Lake. The dam is located across the highway from the parking area. At the dam, there is a wildlife viewing overlook adjacent to the highway. Birders can find Red-breasted Nuthatch, warblers, Blue-headed Grosbeak and other uncommon species here. The lake is surrounded by marsh, northern mesic and wetmesic forest including the Totagatic Highlands Hemlocks, a stand of old growth hemlock on the area’s western edge. Canoe or kayak the flowage for good looks at a variety of waterfowl, eagles and herons.

Directions: Property is located 7 miles northwest of Hayward on Hwy 27. You can access a paved parking lot from Hwy 27.

Gazetteer: Page 93, D-8 (prior to 10th edition). | Page 25, E-8 (10th edition).

Amenities: Restrooms at parking lot.

Notes: The lake has excellent fishing (northern and panfish): there are boat landings on each end of the flowage.

Phone: 715/634-2688 (Wisconsin DNR).

Web site: WDNR Totagatic Lake State Wildlife Area

Hours: 24/7.

Nearest food & Lodging: Hayward, 7 miles southeast.