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

Oak Hammock Marsh

Oak Hammock Marsh is a significant wetland in Manitoba known for its rich biodiversity and exceptional opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.

Wildlife Management Area8,6464+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

8,646

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Oak Hammock Marsh

Oak Hammock Marsh is a significant wetland in Manitoba known for its rich biodiversity and exceptional opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Oak Hammock Marsh is a 35 square kilometer wetland located approximately 20 kilometers north of Winnipeg, Manitoba. It is one of the most important waterfowl habitats in the Canadian prairie region, providing refuge and nesting grounds for hundreds of species of birds, including several migratory waterfowl. The marsh consists of lakes, peatlands, shallow water, and grasslands, supporting a diverse ecosystem of plants and wildlife. Established as a Wildlife Management Area in 1967, Oak Hammock Marsh is managed by Ducks Unlimited Canada and Manitoba Conservation with a focus on habitat preservation and public education. Visitors can explore the extensive network of trails and boardwalks that wind through the marsh, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and environmental interpretation. The Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre features exhibits on wetland ecology, waterfowl migration, and local conservation efforts. Seasonal activities include guided tours, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The area is also a critical stopover for migratory birds on the Central Flyway. Oak Hammock Marsh appeals to naturalists, photographers, and families seeking outdoor recreation close to Winnipeg’s urban center while providing important conservation benefits to local and migratory species.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Oak Hammock Marsh

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

Discover Pembina Gorge's Hidden Wonders★ 6.5⌖ 95 miHiking
Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area

Discover Pembina Gorge's Hidden Wonders

Explore Pembina Gorge's 30 miles of trails through diverse ecosystems in Walhalla, ND. Known for hiking and kayaking, this quiet spot offers scenic views. Best visited in spring and fall, ideal for wildlife observation.

Scenic Wonders: Tetrault State Forest Lookout Point★ 7.5⌖ 95 miHiking
Tetrault State Forest Lookout Point

Scenic Wonders: Tetrault State Forest Lookout Point

Experience stunning views at Tetrault State Forest Lookout Point in North Dakota. Perfect for birding and photography, this peaceful spot offers serene vistas with rich biodiversity. A drive-in destination ideal for capturing breathtaking landscapes.

Tetrault Woods: A Natural Sanctuary in Walhalla★ 8.2⌖ 95 miHiking
Tetrault Woods State Forest

Tetrault Woods: A Natural Sanctuary in Walhalla

Explore Tetrault Woods State Forest near Walhalla, ND. Ideal for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, with trailhead access and serene river views. Best visited in spring or fall, this peaceful spot is a nature lover's retreat and quiet year-round.

Discover Icelandic State Park★ 6.8⌖ 100 miHiking
Icelandic State Park

Discover Icelandic State Park

Explore Icelandic State Park near Cavalier, ND, featuring Lake Renwick. Enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and cross-country skiing. Ideal for a peaceful family getaway with scenic views and cultural insights. Accessible year-round with peak beauty in spring and fall.

Tranquil Waters of Lake of the Woods★ 8.4⌖ 123 miFishing
Lake of the Woods

Tranquil Waters of Lake of the Woods

Explore the serene waters of Lake of the Woods, spanning 14,500 islands and ideal for fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Remote and wildlife-rich, this destination is best enjoyed in spring and fall. Access is mainly by boat. Bring your camera for breathtaking views.

Hiking & Nature in Homen State Forest★ 6.8⌖ 167 miHiking
Homen State Forest

Hiking & Nature in Homen State Forest

Explore Homen State Forest near Bottineau, ND, featuring diverse trails and clear lakes for fishing. Ideal for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Best visited in spring or fall for a quiet retreat.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Extensive boardwalk system providing close-up views of wetlands and waterfowl✦ Home to over 280 species of birds including rare and migratory species✦ Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre with educational exhibits and programs✦ Canoeing and kayaking opportunities in designated areas of the marsh
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Oak Hammock Marsh

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Oak Hammock Marsh
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Oak Hammock Marsh
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Oak Hammock Marsh
Park Recreation

Canoeing

Available in Oak Hammock Marsh
Park Recreation

Educational Tours

Available in Oak Hammock Marsh
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Oak Hammock Marsh.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access with no permits required; donations accepted at the Interpretive Centre

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 Oak Hammock Marsh

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

Lockport
⌖ 5.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lockport, Manitoba

A scenic riverside community offering peaceful paddling, local trails, and easy access to Manitoba's natural waterways and seasonal outdoor activities.

Late Spring to Early Fall for paddling and hiking, Winter for skiingExplore Town
Selkirk
⌖ 7.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Selkirk, Manitoba

A riverside town offering accessible outdoor adventures with a mix of water activities, nature trails, and seasonal winter sports along the Red River.

Late spring to early fall and winter for snow activitiesExplore Town
East Selkirk
⌖ 8.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

East Selkirk, Manitoba

A peaceful riverside community offering easy access to paddling, hiking, and winter sports in the scenic Interlake region.

Late spring to early fall for warm-weather activities; winter for snow sports.Explore Town
Birds Hill
⌖ 11.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Birds Hill, Manitoba

A family-friendly outdoor destination offering diverse year-round activities with a blend of forested trails, waterways, and open parklands close to Winnipeg.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Stonewall
⌖ 13.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Stonewall, Manitoba

A charming small town known for limestone cliffs and scenic nature trails, offering relaxing outdoor activities year-round with access to nearby provincial parks.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Whiteshell
⌖ 16.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Whiteshell, Manitoba

A rugged wilderness haven where vast boreal forests and pristine lakes invite year-round outdoor pursuits.

Late spring to early fall for paddling and hiking; winter for skiingExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Oak Hammock Marsh

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.