Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in Oneida County, Wisconsin, Five Island Lake Wildlife Area is a 2,300-acre conservation area focused on preserving critical wildlife habitats and supporting outdoor recreational activities. The site encompasses Five Island Lake, a 624-acre natural lake featuring five islands that support nesting birds and diverse aquatic life. The surrounding landscape is made up of hardwood and pine forests interspersed with wetlands, which serve as important breeding grounds for waterfowl, amphibians, and other wildlife. The area is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to maintain healthy fish populations such as walleye, northern pike, and largemouth bass, making it a favored fishing destination. Visitors enjoy paddling and canoeing along the peaceful shoreline, where sightings of great blue herons, bald eagles, and trumpeter swans are common. Hiking and wildlife viewing trails weave through the forests and wetland edges, offering immersive nature experiences in a relatively quiet atmosphere away from more developed parks. Historically, the land was used for timber harvesting before being restored for conservation and public access. Five Island Lake Wildlife Area stands out as a place for anglers, birdwatchers, and paddlers who appreciate a scenic, natural setting with minimal development.
