Mud Lake State Wildlife Area

Mud Lake Wildlife Area northwest of Watertown spans approximately 4,500 acres and features a variety of habitats, including two large lakes—Mud Lake and Chub Lake—forested bottomland and upland hardwoods, grasslands, and marshes. The Beaver Dam River flows through the property, joining the Crawfish River at its southern end.

This diverse landscape supports a wide range of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, waterfowl, pheasants, mourning doves, rabbits, squirrels, muskrats, otters, beavers, sandhill cranes, and a variety of woodland and grassland songbirds. The area offers excellent opportunities for waterfowl, deer, turkey, and small-game hunting, as well as abundant wildlife watching.

While wild pheasants may be spotted, the property is also stocked with pheasants each fall. These birds are raised at the State Game Farm in Poynette and by local conservation clubs participating in the Day-Old Chick Program.

Whether you’re a hunter, birdwatcher, or nature enthusiast, Mud Lake Wildlife Area provides a unique and rewarding outdoor experience.