Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area
Rate this placeNearby: Bernie Park Conordale Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is a popular destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers located in Oregon, United States.
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Summary
Spread over 6,000 acres, the area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, deer, beavers, and over 200 bird species.
The area offers numerous activities such as hiking, fishing, and hunting. A popular attraction is the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area Overlook, which offers breathtaking views of the marsh and the surrounding landscape. The area also features a visitor center, picnic areas, and interpretive trails.
One interesting fact about Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is that it was once a wetland that was drained for agricultural purposes. However, in the 1960s, the area was purchased by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and restored to its natural state.
The best time to visit Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is during the spring and fall, as it is the peak migration season for birds. During this time, visitors can see a variety of waterfowl, shorebirds, and raptors.
In summary, Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is a must-visit destination in Oregon for nature lovers and birdwatchers. With its diverse range of wildlife, stunning views, and exciting activities, the area promises a memorable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
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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
Bernie Park
Conordale Park
Benton Park
Hilgard Junction State Park