Pearl River Wildlife Management Area

Pearl River Wildlife Management Area is a protected natural area in Saint Tammany Parish, Louisiana, spanning thousands of acres with diverse habitats. The land includes hardwood forests in higher areas, cypress and tupelo swamps in the middle sections, and marshy zones toward the lower parts.

The area was established through a major land acquisition initiative that aimed to connect separate protected zones in the region. This effort helped create a larger network of conservation lands and protect important wildlife corridors.

The area holds importance for hunting traditions and fishing communities who have used these waters and forests for generations. Local people practice seasonal hunting and fishing as part of their connection to the landscape.

Visitors can stay at Crawford Landing camping facilities and enjoy activities like fishing, crawfishing, and boating on the multiple water bodies throughout the area. Plan visits considering water conditions and seasonal access, as water levels vary throughout the year.

The area contains distinct forest and wetland zones that transition from one to another over short distances, creating a rare variety of habitats in one location. This diversity resulted from deliberately linking separate protected lands into a single connected system.