Doodletown Wildlife Management Area

Discover

Tucked away in Columbia County, New York, the Doodletown Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts. Spanning 1,078 acres, this protected area is primarily forested with semi-mature to mature forest stands of oak, maple, birch, and aspen. Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), the WMA is a vital part of the state's efforts to conserve wildlife habitats and promote ecological balance.

The landscape of Doodletown is a striking mix of rocky, forested hills and sloping ravines, forming part of the Taconic Range. The area's geology is rich, with marble, limestone, slate, and iron shaping its terrain. Historically, the region played a role in iron mining, which was a cornerstone of the local economy. Today, the surrounding lands are primarily used for agriculture and farming, providing a scenic contrast to the wild beauty of the WMA.

Doodletown's forests are a blend of oak, maple, birch, and aspen trees, many of which are mature or semi-mature. Scattered throughout the property are wetlands and vernal pools, which are critical habitats for amphibians. These pools serve as breeding and nursery grounds, supporting a variety of species and adding to the area's ecological diversity. Wildlife found in the area are typical of forests and forest edge habitats, including deer, turkeys, squirrels, and songbirds.

A key focus of the WMA's management is the conservation of the New England cottontail, a species of special concern in New York. The area is part of the Southern Columbia County New England cottontail focus area, where planned management focuses on habitat protection. Management actions planned for this WMA will protect critical habitat to support populations of New England cottontail and other species like ruffed grouse and cerulean warbler.

Doodletown WMA does not feature designated trails, but its open woodlands are managed for non-intensive recreation consistent with its wildlife management function. Use the current map and an approach appropriate to unmarked woodland and your navigation skills. Bird watchers and photographers will find plenty of opportunities to capture the area's natural beauty, from its vibrant foliage to its diverse wildlife.

Access to the WMA is convenient, with parking references on Doodletown Road, Allen Road and County Route 27; Westfall Road provides an approach to the Allen Road lots. These entry points make it easy for visitors to begin their exploration, whether they're arriving from the north via County Route 27 or from the south via the Taconic State Parkway. The area's remote charm is balanced by its accessibility, making it an appealing destination for a day trip.

Doodletown's ecological significance extends beyond its borders. The management description identifies creating young forest as an objective through forestry practices that open parts of the canopy. These are management aims, rather than a guarantee of projects completed or particular species seen during a visit.

For those seeking additional adventures, the WMA is located near several other attractions, including Lake Taghkanic State Park, New Forge State Forest, and the Taconic State Park - Copake Falls Area. DEC specifically directs visitors seeking more developed day-use areas to Lake Taghkanic State Park; plan other destinations separately.

Doodletown Wildlife Management Area is a place where nature takes center stage. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a casual visitor, this protected area offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world. Remember to respect the environment, follow Leave No Trace principles, and enjoy the tranquility of this varied wilderness.

Fun facts

1. Doodletown WMA spans 1,078 acres, combining two parcels purchased in 2017 and 2019.
2. The WMA is situated along the western edge of the Taconic Range and characterized by rocky, forested hills made up of marble, limestone, slate, and iron.
3. It is a key habitat for the New England cottontail, a species of special concern in New York.
4. The WMA features vernal pools, essential breeding grounds for amphibians.
5. Historically, the area was significant for iron mining, shaping the local economy.

Read the official sources →

Capture

1. Compare tree forms in the documented oak, maple, birch and aspen cover from appropriate public access.
2. Frame wetland vegetation or water texture without entering or disturbing vernal pools or relying on an amphibian encounter.
3. Use the relationship between hill and ravine where visible, without inventing a maintained viewpoint.

Social

Doodletown WMA covers 1,078 acres across Ancram, Taghkanic and Gallatin in Columbia County. Two purchases in 2017 and 2019 formed the area. #Cre8Travel

Semi-mature and mature oak, maple, birch and aspen stands give Doodletown WMA its predominantly forested character. #Cre8Travel

Wetlands and vernal pools at Doodletown provide amphibian breeding and nursery habitat. Observe without disturbing those sensitive places. #Cre8Travel

Doodletown WMA lies along the western Taconic edge, with rocky hills and sloping ravines. Use the current map and plan for unmarked terrain. #Cre8Travel

New England cottontail habitat is a management focus at Doodletown. A planned habitat objective is not a guarantee of a rabbit sighting. #Cre8Travel

Doodletown has no designated trails and is managed for non-intensive recreation consistent with its wildlife purpose. #Cre8Travel

Doodletown’s parking references include Doodletown Road, Allen Road and County Route 27. Westfall Road is an approach to the Allen Road lots. #Cre8Travel

At Doodletown, compare woodland form with wetland texture. A careful composition can tell a habitat story without a promised wildlife encounter. #Cre8Travel

Hashtags

1. #Cre8Travel
2. #DoodletownWMA
3. #NatureLovers
4. #WildlifeConservation
5. #BirdWatching
6. #HikingAdventures
7. #ExploreNY

Sources & visitor information

• Source — Doodletown Wildlife Management Area