Waukesha, WI

Friends of Vernon Marsh

Vernon Marsh, Waukesha County, WI | est. 2008 ~ Education | Preservation | Restoration

Vernon Marsh Location




Vernon Wildlife Area is a 4655 acre property (4154 acres owned, 501 acres leased) located just north of Mukwonago in eastern Waukesha County. Parking lots are located off of STH 83, Frog Alley Road, CTH I, CTH NN, and Benson Avenue. A boat launch can be found off Frog Alley Rd.


The property consists of mostly wetlands/flowages with the Fox River snaking through. Adjoining uplands consist of grasslands and some woodlots. A calcareous fen is also present on the south side. It offers excellent wildlife habitat, especially for migrating and nesting waterfowl. 

Land in the wildlife area was first leased in 1946 as a public hunting ground. Purchase of the property by the DNR began 4 years later, assisted by donations from Wetlands for Wildlife and other conservation organizations. It is a popular area for waterfowl, pheasant, small game, turkey, and deer hunting. Handicapped blinds for waterfowl hunting are available off Frog Alley Rd. 
Map  ( pdf  )
 click on thumbnails for larger image

 No entry for any reason in refuge from September 1st to November 30th, except for gun deer hunting.



The following recreational opportunities exist at Vernon Wildlife Area:

    • Birding
    • Boating-no gas powered motors except on Fox River. Trolling motors may not exceed 5 mph.
    • Canoeing
    • Cross Country Skiing - no designated trails
    • Dog Trial Ground- Training permit required
    • Fishing
    • Hiking - No designated trails
    • Hunting- Especially noted for  pheasants (2 pm closure and Hen-Rooster Area rules apply); No waterfowl hunting in waterfowl refuges.
    • Pets- It is illegal to run dogs on DNR lands from April 15 through July 31 unless the dog is on a leash no longer then 8 feet.
    • Snowmobile Trails
    • Trapping
    • Wild Edibles / Gathering
    • Wildlife Viewing