THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Wildlife Management Area · Georgia

Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area

Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area offers diverse habitats ideal for hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation in west-central Georgia. The area attracts outdoor enthusiasts seeking serene natural settings and abundant waterfowl and upland game opportunities.

Wildlife Management Area5,3434+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

5,343

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area

Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area offers diverse habitats ideal for hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation in west-central Georgia. The area attracts outdoor enthusiasts seeking serene natural settings and abundant waterfowl and upland game opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area spans over 5,300 acres in Talbot County, Georgia, comprising hardwood and pine forests, open fields, and the expansive Cedar Lake reservoir. The WMA is managed primarily for public hunting and wildlife habitat conservation. It supports species such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and small game. The large lake provides productive fishing for species including largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. The gently rolling terrain and mosaic of upland and bottomland habitats create excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. While primarily popular during hunting seasons in fall and winter, the area welcomes anglers and wildlife observers year-round. The site was once part of private timberland and was acquired for public recreation and habitat protection. Visitors can access multiple boat ramps and scattered trails that traverse forested areas and open fields. Camping is not developed inside the WMA, but nearby state parks and private campgrounds accommodate overnight stays. Cedar Lake WMA is a favorite for hunters seeking mixed game species and anglers enjoying a calm freshwater setting far from urban noise.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

F.D. Roosevelt State Park★ 7.2⌖ 19 miHiking
F.D. Roosevelt State Park

F.D. Roosevelt State Park

Explore F.D. Roosevelt State Park near Pine Mountain, GA. Known for its peaceful trails and historical significance, this family-friendly park offers hiking, fishing, and picnicking opportunities. Enjoy the scenic views and vibrant foliage, especially in spring and fall.

Pine Mountain★ 4.5⌖ 21 miHiking
Pine Mountain

Pine Mountain

Explore Pine Mountain in Georgia, a moderate hiking destination surrounded by vibrant forests. Enjoy scenic trails, wildlife viewing, and nearby family-friendly attractions like Wild Animal Safari. Best visited in spring and fall for optimal weather conditions.

Discover the Natural Beauty of Standing Boy Trails★ 7.2⌖ 29 miMountain Biking
Standing Boy Trails

Discover the Natural Beauty of Standing Boy Trails

Explore the scenic Standing Boy Trails near Columbus, Georgia. Ideal for mountain biking and hiking, these trails offer well-maintained paths through pine woodlands. Enjoy peaceful rides and hikes with opportunities for wildlife and bird watching.

Mountain BikingView Details→
Chattahoochee River★ 4.5⌖ 29 miKayaking
Chattahoochee River

Chattahoochee River

Explore the Chattahoochee River near Atlanta, Georgia. Perfect for kayaking and hiking with moderate crowd levels during spring and fall. Enjoy diverse wildlife and scenic riverfront views. Not accessible for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.

Waterfront Wonders: Highlands Dam - Riverwalk★ 7.2⌖ 30 miHiking
Highlands dam - riverwalk

Waterfront Wonders: Highlands Dam - Riverwalk

Explore Highlands Dam - Riverwalk along the Chattahoochee River in Columbus, GA. Enjoy hiking and biking on scenic trails, with fishing opportunities for those with a permit. Best visited in spring or fall, this area offers historical charm and lush surroundings.

Discover the Charm of Phenix City Waterfall★ 6.8⌖ 32 miHiking
Phenix City Waterfall

Discover the Charm of Phenix City Waterfall

Explore the Phenix City Waterfall in Alabama, a serene spot for nature lovers with tranquil hiking and bird watching. Ideal for a family-friendly visit with activities like picnicking. Enjoy cooler weather and vibrant surroundings during spring and fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Cedar Lake reservoir with multiple boat ramps for fishing and paddling✦ Diverse upland pine and hardwood habitats supporting abundant wildlife✦ Excellent waterfowl hunting opportunities during migration season✦ Scattered seasonal trails allowing exploration of forest and field ecosystems
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Boating

Available in Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access for fishing and wildlife viewing; hunting requires valid Georgia hunting license and WMA-specific permits.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Talbotton
⌖ 1.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Talbotton, Georgia

A quiet, rural town with rich historical roots, providing access to river paddling, birdwatching, and peaceful countryside exploration in west-central Georgia.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Manchester
⌖ 10.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Manchester, Georgia

A peaceful small town offering easy access to scenic trails, river paddling, and nature escapes, ideal for outdoor travelers seeking a low-key Southern experience.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Ellerslie
⌖ 15.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ellerslie, Georgia

A quiet southern gateway offering rustic charm and access to rolling landscapes ideal for outdoor recreation and water adventures.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Butler
⌖ 20.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Butler, Georgia

A small, quiet Southern town offering peaceful access to rural trails, lakes, and gentle paddling spots in west-central Georgia.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Pine Mountain
⌖ 21.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pine Mountain, Georgia

A charming Southern town known for its natural beauty and proximity to adventure-filled state parks and gardens.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Fortson
⌖ 23.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fortson, Georgia

A quiet, green-edge community offering rugged trails, rich waterways, and a welcoming gateway to southern outdoor escapes.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.