Francis A Crane Quail Wildlife Management Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
The Francis A Crane Quail Wildlife Management Area is located in the town of Falmouth, Massachusetts.
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Summary
This area covers more than 1,900 acres and is known for its diverse wildlife and habitats. There are many reasons to visit the area, including bird watching, hiking, hunting, and nature photography.
One of the most popular points of interest in the area is the salt marshes. These provide a unique habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and mammals. The marshes are also home to several species of rare plants.
Another attraction in the area is the Paskamansett River. This river is known for its trout fishing and is a popular spot for anglers. There are also several hiking trails that follow the river, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the area on foot.
In addition to the wildlife and outdoor activities, there are also several interesting facts about the area. For example, the Francis A Crane Quail Wildlife Management Area was once used as a military training ground during World War II. Today, the area is managed by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and is open to the public for recreational use.
The best time of year to visit the Francis A Crane Quail Wildlife Management Area depends on your interests. Bird watchers will want to visit during the spring and fall migration seasons, while anglers will want to visit during the trout fishing season in the summer. Hikers and nature photographers can enjoy the area year-round, but should be prepared for cold weather in the winter months.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Fonseca Park
Mass Audubon Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary
Francis A Crane Pheasant Wildlife Management Area
Quashnet Woods State Reservation
Washburn Island State Park