French Creek Wildlife Area

Once a production area for a native wetland sedge called wiregrass from which grass rugs were made, this 3,500-acre state-owned and managed property has been a waterfowl and wildlife production area since 1947.  French Creek flowing through the property was dammed many years ago to create a large shallow impoundment favorable for many species of ducks, geese and other wetland-dependent wildlife.  The site contains restored grasslands, savannas, fens, tamarack bog and sedge meadow habitats, as well as open water areas.  The open pool is drawn down every several years to control cattails and to provide food for waterfowl and migratory shorebirds.

French Creek is a great bird-watching area, where rare red-shouldered hawks and great egrets as well as a number of wetland species can be observed during summer.  Other recreational activities include canoeing, hiking and cross-country skiing (although there are no designated trails).  There are nine parking areas on the southern portion of the wildlife area.  French Creek Wildlife Area is a popular hunting area for turkey, deer and waterfowl in fall.  A segment of the property occurs in Marquette County.

A portion of the Ice Age Trail borders the western edge of French Creek Wildlife Area.