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Wildlife Area · WI

Kellners Pond Wildlife Area

Kellners Pond Wildlife Area is a rich natural habitat in Wisconsin offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching, hunting, and hiking across its diverse wetlands and woodlands.

Wildlife Area2,2004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,200

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Kellners Pond Wildlife Area

Kellners Pond Wildlife Area is a rich natural habitat in Wisconsin offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching, hunting, and hiking across its diverse wetlands and woodlands.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Kellners Pond Wildlife Area spans over 2,000 acres in Dodge County, Wisconsin, featuring a mosaic of wetlands, hardwood forests, and grasslands. The area centers around Kellners Pond, a shallow, spring-fed waterbody that supports a wide range of aquatic birds and wildlife. This habitat is especially important for waterfowl and songbirds, attracting birdwatchers of all skill levels. The surrounding woods provide shelter for deer, turkeys, and small mammals, enhancing hunting opportunities during regulated seasons. Historically managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Kellners Pond Wildlife Area was established to protect critical wetland and upland habitats while offering public access for outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore several miles of unpaved trails and marsh boardwalks for hiking and wildlife photography. Fishing is available in the pond, popular for panfish and northern pike during warmer months. The presence of diverse wetlands makes the area notable for seasonal amphibian migrations and springtime wildflower blooms. Its quiet setting, combined with abundant wildlife, offers a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts. The area does not have developed campgrounds but is suited for day use and casual exploration. Due to its wetland nature, some trails may be seasonally muddy or flooded, particularly in spring or after heavy rains. The nearby town of Horicon provides access points and supplies. Overall, Kellners Pond Wildlife Area is a valuable natural refuge in southeastern Wisconsin, offering a peaceful outdoor destination for birdwatching, light hiking, and seasonal hunting.

Field Guide · Wildlife Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Kellners Pond Wildlife Area

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

Discover the Wonders of Horicon Marsh⌖ 4 miBird Watching
Horicon Marsh

Discover the Wonders of Horicon Marsh

Explore the vast 33,000-acre Horicon Marsh, near Mayville, Wisconsin. Ideal for bird watching and kayaking, it's renowned for diverse wildlife. Spring and fall visits offer the best experiences in this serene and biodiverse landscape.

Bird WatchingView Details→
Gibraltar Rock: A Scenic Wonder in Lodi, Wisconsin★ 7.2⌖ 50 miHiking
Gibraltar Rock State Natural Area

Gibraltar Rock: A Scenic Wonder in Lodi, Wisconsin

Explore Gibraltar Rock in Lodi, WI, offering moderate trails and stunning views of the Wisconsin River Valley. Perfect for hiking and photography, this quiet spot is best in spring or fall. Access via Gibraltar Rock Rd.

Nature's Serenity at Lower Narrows★ 7.8⌖ 50 miHiking
Lower Narrows State Natural Area

Nature's Serenity at Lower Narrows

Explore Lower Narrows State Natural Area in Baraboo, WI. Enjoy scenic hikes through dramatic cliffs and verdant landscapes. Popular for wildlife watching and photography, this area offers a peaceful escape year-round.

Nature's Hidden Gem: Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area★ 7.5⌖ 51 miHiking
Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area

Nature's Hidden Gem: Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area

Explore the unique geological features of Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area near Merrimac, WI. Known for its striking rock formations and lush vegetation, this serene area offers a peaceful retreat for hikers and nature photographers. Best visited in spring or fall.

Cliffside Marvels of the Ice Age Trail - Devil's Lake Segment★ 8.7⌖ 53 miHiking
Ice Age Trail - Devil's Lake Segment

Cliffside Marvels of the Ice Age Trail - Devil's Lake Segment

Explore the striking 13-mile Devil's Lake Segment of the Ice Age Trail. This moderately challenging hiking route features stunning quartzite rock formations and diverse ecosystems. Ideal for adventure seekers and photographers, it offers breathtaking views and wildlife sightings.

Majestic Views from East Bluff★ 8.4⌖ 55 miHiking
East Bluff State Natural Area

Majestic Views from East Bluff

Explore stunning views at East Bluff State Natural Area, part of Baraboo Hills near Merrimac, WI. The trails offer moderate hiking with rewarding vistas and birdwatching opportunities. Ideal for photographers, the best time to visit is late spring to early fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Extensive wetland habitat surrounding Kellners Pond, prime for waterfowl observation✦ Diverse bird population including migratory songbirds and waterfowl✦ Hunting opportunities for deer, waterfowl, and small game in regulated seasons✦ Accessible boardwalk and nature trails allowing close wildlife encounters
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Kellners Pond Wildlife Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Kellners Pond Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Kellners Pond Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Kellners Pond Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Kellners Pond Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Kellners Pond Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Kellners Pond Wildlife 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 Kellners Pond Wildlife Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access, hunting and fishing require appropriate Wisconsin state licenses and 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 Kellners Pond Wildlife Area

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

Horicon
⌖ 3.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Horicon, Wisconsin

A waterside town known for rich wetland ecosystems and outdoor activities centered on nature conservation and quiet outdoor recreation.

Spring through Fall for Wildlife Viewing and Summer Water ActivitiesExplore Town
Mayville
⌖ 4.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mayville, Wisconsin

A quaint Midwestern town offering peaceful outdoor escapes with activities centered around its beautiful natural landscapes and wildlife-rich environments.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Theresa
⌖ 9.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Theresa, Wisconsin

A quiet rural town offering peaceful access to classic Wisconsin outdoor activities with nearby lakes, forests, and trails for year-round adventure.

Spring to Fall for water and trail activities; Winter for snowmobilingExplore Town
Waupun
⌖ 10.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Waupun, Wisconsin

A quiet small town offering access to peaceful outdoor activities with a focus on local parks, biking, and fishing in a rural Wisconsin setting.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Fox Lake
⌖ 14.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fox Lake, Wisconsin

A peaceful lakeside town offering classic Midwest outdoor experiences with excellent paddling, fishing, and trails surrounded by gentle woodlands and farmland.

Late spring through early fallExplore Town
Wayne
⌖ 15.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wayne, Wisconsin

A quiet rural town offering peaceful outdoor escapes with ample opportunities for paddling, hiking, biking, and seasonal activities amid Wisconsin’s lakes and forests.

Late spring through early fall for water and trail activities; winter for snowshoeing.Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Kellners Pond Wildlife 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.