Towns: Becket, Middlefield
Acreage: 989
Wildlife Management Zone: 2
Description
The majority of the Walnut Hill WMA is forested with a northern hardwood mix at various stages of succession growth. Old growth eastern hemlock stands are scattered along the steep river valley and are surround by numerous small stands of maple, oak, birch, and ash. The property is named for Walnut Hill which rises to an elevation of 1,616 feet near the center of the property.
Location, access, & parking
A grass parking area for 3 vehicles is located at the end of Johnny Cake Hill Road in Middlefield. Additional limited roadside parking and access can be obtained along the side of Town Hill Road. See WMA map.
Note: WMAs are intentionally wild, visitors will find natural landscapes rather than maintained trails.
Hunting opportunities
The different stages of forest growth provide excellent cover and food sources for many game species including white-tailed deer, black bear, eastern coyote, raccoon, and ruffed grouses.
Fishing opportunities
Two trout stocked waters border the property: Factory Brook to the west and the West Branch of the Westfield River to the south. For more information about trout stocking, please visit mass.gov/trout.
Wildlife viewing & other features
The variety of habitat types allow for excellent viewing opportunities for many kinds of wildlife.
Regulations
About Wildlife Management Areas
MassWildlife owns and manages over 220,000 acres of land to conserve fish and wildlife habitats and provide access for outdoor recreation. All WMAs are open to hunting, fishing, trapping, and other outdoor recreation activities. Visit the MassWildlife Lands Viewer for an interactive map of MassWildlife properties.
You can support land protection in Massachusetts. Contributions to the Wildlands Fund help pay for the cost of acquiring wildlife habitat. Learn more about the Wildlands Fund.