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Hampton Corners Wildlife Management Area adventures

Hampton Corners Wildlife Management Area Adventures

Hampton Corners Wildlife Management Area offers diverse habitats for wildlife observation and hunting across over 2,000 acres in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The area is popular for hiking, birding, and seasonal hunting activities.

2,280
Acres Protected
Approximately 5 (unpaved access roads and trails)
Miles of Trails
Estimated 2,000-3,000
Annual Visitors
Late 20th century (exact year not widely documented)
Year Established

About Hampton Corners Wildlife Management Area

 

Located in Schoolcraft County in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Hampton Corners Wildlife Management Area (WMA) spans approximately 2,280 acres of mixed forest, wetlands, and scattered open lands. Managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the area supports a broad variety of wildlife species including white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, grouse, and waterfowl. The terrain features rolling hills, small ponds, wet meadows, and upland forests dominated by northern hardwoods and conifers. Established primarily to conserve wildlife habitat, the WMA serves as an important site for hunting, trapping, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can access several unpaved trails and logging roads which provide quiet hiking and cross-country skiing in winter months. The mixture of wetlands and uplands creates valuable stopover habitat for migratory birds, making it a favored location for birdwatchers, especially during spring and fall migrations. Hunting seasons for deer, small game, and waterfowl attract many outdoor enthusiasts. While there are no developed campgrounds within Hampton Corners WMA, dispersed camping is allowed following state regulations. Its remote location and low visitor density appeal to those seeking solitude and a chance to experience diverse wildlife in a relatively undisturbed setting. The WMA is adjacent to other state-managed lands, further enhancing its value as a wildlife corridor. Easy access from nearby roads allows visitors to explore the area without extensive backcountry travel, yet the lack of extensive development keeps the experience rustic and natural.

Highlights

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Diverse habitat of mixed hardwood-conifer forest and wetlands supporting abundant bird species

Highlight

Excellent opportunities for white-tailed deer and small game hunting

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Remote hiking and cross-country skiing on quiet unpaved roads and trails

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Ideal location for observing waterfowl migration during spring and fall

Notable Natural Features

Mixed Hardwood-Conifer Forest

Extensive forest types that create varied wildlife habitats supporting species such as deer, bear, and songbirds.

Wetland Complexes

Scattered ponds and wet meadows that provide essential breeding grounds for amphibians and migratory waterfowl.

Unpaved Hiking Trails and Logging Roads

Network of low-impact routes for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing offering solitude and nature immersion.