The Clemons Creek Wildlife and Recreation Area is a great collaborative project of 290 acres. With such community support, this area provides multiple opportunities for hunter, wildlife enthusiasts, and hikers. Development and funding for Clemons Creek has been supported by the Fish and Wildlife Service, Ducks Unlimited, DNR Habitat Stamp Grant, Izaak Walton League, Pheasants Forever, and the Wild Turkey Federation.

Location

2 miles west of Washington. Take G38 to Kiwi Avenue. Go north on Kiwi and take the 1st gravel right.

Habitats Present

Clemons Creek hosts a wide variety of habitats:

• Cropland
• Grasslands
• Prairie Remnants
• Upland and Lowland Timber
• Wet Prairie

In the eastern portion is a large marsh. Although several game fish may be found in the marsh, it is not a fishery and good-sized fish should not be expected to be found there. Mostly bullhead and carp inhabit the marsh. The high wildlife diversity is a reflection of this wide range of habitat types.

Improvements

Habitat and timber improvements are an ongoing process for this wildlife and recreational area. Several wetlands and a pond have been added. Watch the progress of the oak seedlings as they grow over the years. Be sure to look for new features as time passes on.

Wildlife

Hunting is permitted on this property. Populations of deer, squirrel, pheasant, turkey, and waterfowl can be found here.

Nongame species can also be enjoyed in this area. Listen for the warbling song of the wren, or catch the flash of the deep blue of the indigo bunting. A frog serenade will soothe the ears as the sweet smell of spring flowers tantalizes the nose.

 Shooting Range

This shooting range offers 25, 50, and 100 yard ranges and a clay target range. The site is perfect for sighting in your gun or practicing your aim. The range is open to anyone certified to use it. An Archery Range is also available next to the shooting range. Permanent bag targets are on site for your use. Certification is also required for this range.

The shooting range is open from sunrise to sunset. All peace officers, certified range officers, hunter safety instructors, and persons certified by the WCCB may use the range. Contact the Education Center Coordinator to make an appointment to obtain shooting and archery range certification.

Etiquette

Paper and cardboard are the only forms of targets allowed on the shooting range. Trash cans are not provided and range users are expected to remove all targets, shell casings, boxes, patches, and disc primers when finished.