Pymatuning Wildlife Management Area

Following the creation of Pymatuning Reservoir, the Pennsylvania Game Commission created the state’s first waterfowl refuge in 1935. Known as the Pymatuning Waterfowl Refuge, this came at a time when many of our wetland habitats were becoming lost to development.

Waterfowl hunting opportunities were made possible at Pymatuning, with the creation of the Goose Management Area in 1962. With a resident population of Canada Geese established, hunters from near and far traveled to Pymatuning for this unique opportunity.

Public access and recreational opportunities grew as the PGC acquired additional land throughout the years to expand state game lands 214.

Today, over 9,600 acres are managed for wildlife conservation and public recreation throughout the Pymatuning Wildlife Management Area.

Pymatuning is an important rest stop for migrating birds, and a permanent home for resident wildlife. They find refuge within the 2,500-acre propagation area, which provides undisturbed breeding grounds. The surrounding state game lands include wetlands, forests, and grasslands that are managed for waterfowl, deer, songbirds, and more.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission celebrated the start of construction on the new Pymatuning Wildlife Learning Center during a groundbreaking ceremony in the spring of 2025.

Located within the 9,600-acre Pymatuning Wildlife Management Area, the center is being constructed on Ford Island near Linesville, PA in Crawford County. This new facility replaces the previous wildlife learning center, which closed in 2014 after more than 75 years of operation.

The facility will encompass 9,000 square feet of floor space, with a large exhibition space and auditorium being major components of the interior.

With nearly 6.8 million people residing within 100 miles of Pymatuning, the new Pymatuning Wildlife Learning Center will be a valuable resource for wildlife education throughout the bi-state area.

Displays & Exhibits: High quality interactive exhibits are planned for visitors to discover how the Pennsylvania Game Commission manages more than 480 species of birds and mammals and over 1.5 million acres of state game lands for both game and non-game species. Permanent and rotating displays will showcase the PGC’s history of wildlife management, habitat management techniques, hunting and trapping heritage, and Pymatuning’s unique wildlife will be available to visitors of all ages.

Outdoor Experiences: Visitors will enjoy an interpretive walking trail, guided driving tour, and wildlife viewing opportunities on Ford Island and the surrounding Pymatuning Wildlife Management Area.

Educational Programs: PGC staff will host public educational programs and events regularly scheduled throughout the year. It will guide school groups, organizations, and others who are interested in field trip opportunities, customized educational programs, and more.