Upper and Lower Lakes Wildlife Management Area
Canton, St. Lawrence County
Upper and Lower Lakes Wildlife Management Area comprises wetlands, upland fields and forest. The majority of the area lies between the Grass River and the Oswegatchie River. It is an important nesting area for water-dependent birds, a migratory bird concentration area, and valuable wetland furbearer habitat. The Indian Creek Nature Center features trails, observation platforms and a picnic pavilion. The Nature Center and public hunting portions of the area are open year-round. The remainder of the area is open from mid-August until the end of May.
Wildlife to Watch
- Turkey
- Canada geese
- Black tern (endangered species)
- Grouse
- Wading birds (great blue heron, American bittern and least bittern)
- Raptors (bald eagle, osprey)
- Ring-necked pheasant
- Common loon
- White-tailed deer
- Muskrat
- Otter
- Beaver
Where to Watch
- Accessible blind and trail
- Observation tower
- Nature center trails
Recreational Opportunities
- Hunting, fishing, hiking, birdwatching
- Canoeing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing
Accessible Features
Upper and Lower Lakes WMA features include accessible parking along the county road, a 600 foot long trail suitable for use with mobility devices and an accessible blind for waterfowl viewing and hunting opportunities. A full list of DEC's accessible recreation destinations is available on the DEC website.
Size
8,666 acres
Closest Town
Canton and Rensselaer Falls
Directions
See the DEC website for a map of the area. Hold Shift down while clicking on the link to open it in a new window.)
Contact information:
Telephone: 315-785-2254
Website: Upper and Lower Lakes Wildlife Management Area
Photo credits: Cody Wilson (DEC), USFWS, Susan Shafer (DEC)