Exploring the George Mead Wildlife Area

May 2, 2018

George Mead Wildlife Area

LOCATION | Central Wisconsin, S2148 County Highway S, Milladore, WI 54454

I never knew this place even existed until about two weeks ago. I was looking at a map, eagerly searching for new places to explore, when I saw this huge span of green just south of Wausau. Looking closer, I saw that it was the George Mead Wildlife Area, so I wrote it down as a future spot to explore.

Well, today was the day! My mom and I drove there this morning and spent about an hour walking around the property, taking photos along the way.

Located just 30 miles southwest of Wausau and 25 miles northwest of Stevens Point, this area is a hidden gem in central Wisconsin.

Over 33,000 Acres

The George Mead Wildlife Area is one of the largest wildlife areas in Wisconsin. Marshes, forests, and grasslands stretch on for as far as the eye can see.

Diverse Habitat

According to the Wisconsin DNR, this area houses deer, turkey, bear, grouse, otter, beaver, muskrats, herons, prairie chickens, fox, coyote, eagles, wolves, and bobcats.

Over 267 Bird Species

There are also a ton of birds here so remember to bring a pair of binoculars along if you’d like to partake in some bird watching!

Recreational Opportunities

This area offers plenty to do such as, hiking (over 70 miles of trails), seasonal biking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and hunting (refer to hunting regulations first).

The Visitor Center

When we first arrived, we stopped at the visitor center to pick up a few maps and get some information on the area.

This building sits right near the main entrance and serves as both a visitor center and an educational facility. There’s even an outdoor amphitheater!

To contact the visitor center, call (715) 457-6771.

Hours:

Monday – Thursday, 8:00 to 4:30.

Fridays by appointment only.

Closed on the weekends.

The Lookouts

There are numerous lookout areas scattered throughout. This one right below was the Schmutzer Wildlife Viewing Blind where you could open and close the little wooden windows.

We forgot the binocs so I improvised…

A couple of geese coming in for a landing.

We had so much fun exploring and taking photos! I think I’ll return in the summer once everything gets a little greener. I also think coming here at sunrise would be really beautiful!

More Information

Friends of the Mead/McMillan Wildlife Areas

WI DNR

Let's Connect!

Every email subscriber makes my day. I still act like a little kid and tell my mom the good news of, “look look someone signed up!”

I want to connect with my readers and share inspiring things. That’s why I don’t send out a lot of emails because the ones I do send, I want them to be reeeeally good.

So join me on my Midwestern adventure! Your snowshoes are waiting.