You'll Love This Secluded Idaho Wildlife Management Area With Miles And Miles Of Beautiful Land
By Courtnie Erickson|Published March 06, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Did you know that there are 32 wildlife management areas in Idaho? These unique destinations are designed to protect wildlife and encourage people to get out and enjoy some of Idaho’s most beautiful land. Craig Mountain Wildlife Management Area is one of the largest wildlife areas in Idaho but it is also one area of the state that many people don’t know exists.
Craig Mountain Wildlife Management Area is located in Nez Perce and Lewis Counties, just south of Lewiston. This incredible area sits along the Snake River and is near Hells Canyon.
Craig Mountain WMA is more than 120,000 acres, making it one of the larger wildlife management areas in the state. Because it is so large, this means there are not only many ways to enjoy the area, but it is also home to all types of wildlife.
In fact, the wildlife is one of the main draws to this WMA in northern Idaho. Birdwatching is popular as you may catch a glimpse of birds like the flammulated owl and various woodpecker species.
Hunting and fishing are allowed as deer, bears, bighorn sheep, and other remarkable creatures live in the area. This is also a popular place for upland game birds.
Keep in mind that hunting is only allowed during hunting seasons and you must have a license. Also, make sure you do not enter private property when hunting and exploring the WMA.
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Craig Mountain is open year round, seven days a week to non-motorized travel. Horseback riding and hiking are both excellent ways to explore this beautiful area in northern Idaho.
A network of trails will take you all around the wildlife management area. We recommend downloading a trail map from the Idaho Fish and Game website to help you best navigate the WMA as with so many trails, it is easy to become lost if you are not familiar with the area.
If you love the idea of “roughing” it, primitive camping is also allowed at Craig Mountain WMA. There are also cabins for shelter throughout the WMA but you must put forth the work to reach them.
Campfires are permitted unless there are fire restrictions. Also, come prepared with bear spray and proper equipment to store food and garbage as this area is black bear territory.
If you are searching for even more information about the Craig Mountain WMA, check out this short video by Idaho Fish and Game.
Whether you want a day in nature, to observe wildlife, or you are up for a hunting, fishing, or camping trip, Craig Mountain Wildlife Management Area is worth a visit. It’s a hidden gem in northern Idaho that is a pure oasis of natural beauty.
For more information on this wildlife management area in Idaho, including access to a map and rules for public use, visit the Idaho Fish and Game website.
For another day trip destination in Idaho that is outdoors and home to all types of wildlife, plan a visit to the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge.
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