Kickapoo Valley Reserve
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve is a bowhunter's dream, offering over 8,500 acres of rugged, unglaciated terrain.
Wisconsin · United States · Season: Fall hunting seasons
Overview
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve is a bowhunter's dream, offering over 8,500 acres of rugged, unglaciated terrain. Its steep-sided valleys, hardwood ridges, and significant agricultural interface create exceptional whitetail habitat. The Kickapoo River meanders through the heart of the property, adding to the diversity. Access is generally good, with numerous parking areas off State Highway 131 and local county roads. The Reserve is managed primarily for natural resource protection, meaning timber stands are mature, offering excellent cover and food sources. Ideal season is late October through mid-November, during the rut, when bucks are most active. This is not a hunt for the faint of heart; expect steep climbs and long walks to get into prime areas. Fitness is a must. Permits are required, but general hunting licenses apply. The biggest trade-off can be pressure on easier-to-access fringes, but once you put in the miles, the crowds thin out considerably. Weather can be unpredictable; be prepared for cold, wet conditions in the late season.
Why it stands out
Over 8,500 acres of contiguous public land Mature oak, maple, and basswood forests Steep coulees and bluff tops providing natural funnels Numerous creek crossings and river bottom habitat Significant agricultural lands bordering the reserve Known for producing mature bucks
Know before you go
High pressure near main access points Very steep terrain requires good physical fitness Limited cell service in some areas Permits/licenses required by WI DNR
Planning notes
Where: Wisconsin, United States Best season: Fall hunting seasons Good for: Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Camping Featured on: Top 10 Public-Land Bowhunting Units for Whitetails in the Driftless Area (#1) Access point: Kickapoo Valley Reserve, WI-131, La Farge, WI 54639, USA Check current permits, closures and fire restrictions with the managing agency before you commit to dates.
Field notes
- Over 8,500 acres of contiguous public land
- Mature oak, maple, and basswood forests
- Steep coulees and bluff tops providing natural funnels
- Numerous creek crossings and river bottom habitat
- Significant agricultural lands bordering the reserve
- Known for producing mature bucks
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Kickapoo Valley Reserve, United States.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 43.6600, -90.5967
- Latitude (DMS)
- 43° 39′ 35.9″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 90° 35′ 48.3″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Kickapoo Valley Reserve, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.