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Wildlife Management Area · NY

Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area

Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area provides a diverse landscape of wetlands, forests, and open water ideal for wildlife observation, hunting, fishing, and hiking in Broome County, New York.

Wildlife Management Area4,1584+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

4,158

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area

Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area provides a diverse landscape of wetlands, forests, and open water ideal for wildlife observation, hunting, fishing, and hiking in Broome County, New York.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a critical habitat and recreational area located near Whitney Point in Broome County, New York. Encompassing over 4,000 acres, the WMA is managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to support both conservation and outdoor recreation. The geography of the area is characterized by a mix of forested lands, wetlands, open fields, and river frontage along the Otselic River and Bevier Creek. These varied habitats support a wide array of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and numerous small mammals and songbirds. The area is particularly valued for its waterfowl populations during migration seasons and as an important stopover site for birds. The history of the WMA reflects a transition from agricultural lands and small-scale timber harvest to managed public land dedicated to habitat restoration and outdoor access. Visitors to Whitney Point WMA can enjoy activities such as fishing, hunting (in designated seasons), hiking, bird watching, and cross-country skiing during winter months. Several parking areas provide access to trails and open hunting fields. The area’s natural setting, combined with relatively quiet and undeveloped spaces, appeals to nature enthusiasts and hunters alike. Notable landmarks include the Otselic River corridor and the diverse wetland complexes that support amphibians and aquatic species. The WMA’s location near the village of Whitney Point makes it accessible for daily trips or weekend excursions for residents and visitors of central New York.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area

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

Snowboarding & Skiing at Greek Peak Mountain Resort★ 7.5⌖ 20 miSkiing and Snowboarding
2008-2024 NY-392

Snowboarding & Skiing at Greek Peak Mountain Resort

Greek Peak Mountain Resort, just 45 minutes from Ithaca, offers skiing and snowboarding with over 55 trails and 6 lifts. Known for its adventure center and family-friendly atmosphere, the resort is busiest on weekends and features scenic views of the Finger Lakes.

Skiing and SnowboardingView Details→
Cross-Country Skiing at Hammond Hill State Forest near Ithaca, New York★ 7.0⌖ 21 miCross-Country Skiing
16-102 Hammond Hill Rd

Cross-Country Skiing at Hammond Hill State Forest near Ithaca, New York

Explore the serene trails of Hammond Hill State Forest near Ithaca, New York. Best suited for cross-country skiing in winter, this tranquil spot offers trails for all skill levels. Drive-in access and a peaceful winter environment offer a delightful experience for skiers looking for solitude.

Cross-Country SkiingView Details→
Hiking the Abbott Loop Trail in Danby State Forest★ 7.5⌖ 25 miHiking
496-352 Hill Rd

Hiking the Abbott Loop Trail in Danby State Forest

Explore the 8-mile Abbott Loop Trail in Danby State Forest near Ithaca, NY. With moderate difficulty, this trail offers diverse terrains and stunning nature views. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts and wildlife watchers, it's best visited in spring and fall.

Hiking the Cayuga Trail★ 7.8⌖ 27 miHiking
1057-1061 NY-366

Hiking the Cayuga Trail

Explore the Cayuga Trail near Ithaca, New York, offering varied wildlife and scenic views over its moderate distance. This trail is ideal for hiking and birding, providing a chance for solitude in a serene environment.

Swimming at Buttermilk Falls: A Finger Lakes Oasis★ 7.8⌖ 29 miSwimming
Upper Buttermilk Falls Park Road

Swimming at Buttermilk Falls: A Finger Lakes Oasis

Explore Buttermilk Falls State Park near Ithaca, NY, known for its scenic waterfalls and swimming spots. The designated swimming area at the Lower Falls offers a refreshing escape amid lush surroundings. Best visited in summer when crowds are busiest.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Otselic River corridor with diverse aquatic habitats✦ Seasonal waterfowl migration viewing opportunities✦ Multi-habitat environment supporting deer, turkey, and small game✦ Quiet fishing spots along Bevier Creek and associated wetlands
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Cross-country Skiing

Available in Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Whitney Point 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 Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; hunting and fishing require applicable New York 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 Whitney Point Wildlife Management Area

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

Whitney Point
⌖ 6.68 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Whitney Point, New York

A tranquil small-town setting offering serene outdoor activities with easy access to paddling, fishing, and seasonal nature exploration along the Susquehanna River.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Port Dickinson
⌖ 8.82 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Port Dickinson, New York

A quiet, suburban village offering easy access to river activities and nearby natural areas, perfect for a low-key outdoor escape.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Port Crane
⌖ 9.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Port Crane, New York

A quiet riverside hamlet offering tranquil paddling, gentle hiking, and seasonal outdoor escapes along the Susquehanna River corridor.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Binghamton
⌖ 10.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Binghamton, New York

A riverfront town offering diverse outdoor activities with a mix of urban conveniences and access to nearby natural areas in the Southern Tier region.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Apalachin
⌖ 13.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Apalachin, New York

A peaceful river town offering easy access to outdoor water activities, gentle hiking, and a quiet gateway to the Southern Tier’s natural attractions.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Owego
⌖ 16.32 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Owego, New York

A small riverside town offering quiet outdoor escapes with scenic hiking, paddling on the Susquehanna River, and seasonal outdoor activities in the Southern Tier region.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Whitney Point 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.