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Ohio
23

Ohio State Parks

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USA Parks
Ohio
Northwest Ohio Region
Missionary Island Wildlife Area
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MISSIONARY ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA
MISSIONARY ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA
Waterville, Ohio   43566
(lat:41.4727 lon:-83.7478) map location

Phone: (614) 265-6565
Missionary Island Wildlife Area is a picturesque, 397-acre sanctuary located in Lake Erie's Western Basin in Ohio. This stunning natural habitat features a diverse array of wildlife, including waterfowl, shorebirds, and fish, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. The island boasts lush wetlands, rich marshes, and dense forests, providing essential nesting and feeding grounds for numerous species. Visitors can explore the area through well-maintained trails, enjoying the tranquil beauty while observing the abundance of wildlife that call this island home.
History of the Area
Missionary Island Wildlife Area is located in Lake Erie off the coast of Ohio. The history of this area can be traced back to the 1800s when it was owned by missionaries who used the island for religious activities.

In the early 1800s, the island was purchased by the American Missionary Association, a group associated with the abolitionist movement. The missionaries used the island as a place for spiritual retreat and to provide religious teachings to Native American tribes. They established a mission school on the island, known as the Missionary Institute.

During this time, the island was home to several buildings, including a chapel, a schoolhouse, and a boarding house. The missionaries aimed to convert and educate the Native American population in the region. They also provided medical assistance and other forms of aid.

Over time, the island's purpose evolved, and in the late 1800s, it was turned into a hunting and fishing club known as the Missionary Island Club. Members of the club enjoyed recreational activities on the island, including hunting waterfowl and fishing.

In the late 20th century, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) acquired Missionary Island, along with several other parcels, to create the Missionary Island Wildlife Area. The ODNR designated the area as a wildlife refuge to protect the diverse bird population, including migratory waterfowl and songbirds.

Missionary Island Wildlife Area serves as an important habitat for wildlife and offers opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and boating. The island is managed by the ODNR, which works to maintain the natural environment while also accommodating recreational activities for visitors.


Location
Missionary Island Wildlife Area is located near Bowling Green, Holland and Maumee


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Area Campgrounds
Toledo East / Stony Ridge KOA Journey
24787 Luckey Road
Perrysburg, OH
419-837-6848
Fire Lake Campground
13630 Kramer Road
Bowling Green, OH
419-352-1185
Twin Acres Campground
12029 Waterville Swanton Road
Whitehouse, OH
419-877-2684
Bluegrass Campground
5751 Waterville Swanton Road
Swanton, OH
419-875-5110
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Chris's Bait & Tackle
24316 Front St
Grand Rapids, OH
(419) 832-0989
Jann's Netcraft
3350 Briarfield Blvd
Maumee, OH
(419) 868-8288
Carranor Hunt & Polo Club
502 E 2nd St
Perrysburg, OH
(419) 874-4292
Walleye Fishing Line
1025 River Rd
Maumee, OH
(419) 893-9740
Maumee Valley Bait & Tackle
104 W Wayne St
Maumee, OH
(419) 893-3474
Treble Hook Charters Inc
1028 Michigan Ave
Maumee, OH
(419) 893-9757
ABC Charters
Curtice
Toledo, OH
(419) 242-2510
Great Lakes Tackle & Supply
313 Oxford Ct
Maumee, OH
(419) 893-3261
Sportsman Supplies
3350 Briarfield Blvd
Maumee, OH
(419) 868-8288
Area Cabins and Lodges
Kerr House the Health Resorts
17777 Beaver St
Grand Rapids, OH
(419) 832-1733
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
businesss listing main photo
Camp Patmos - Kelleys Island, OH
Conference Center
Week long youth camps. Located on the shores of Kelleys Island. Guests will learn to sail, wakeboard, waterski while enjoying the beauty of the Lake Erie island.
54.8 miles from park*
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Campgrounds
Enjoy Southeast Michigan's Best Family Camping experience at our clean, quiet, friendly campground. Jumping Pillow, WiFi, Paddle Boats, Minigolf, Swimming, Bicycling and more
38.5 miles from park*
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
1. Start by getting on I-75 N from E 9th St.
2. Stay on I-75 N for approximately 54.5 miles.
3. Take Exit 156 toward US-224.
4. Merge onto SR-613.
5. Continue onto US-224 W.
6. After about 14 miles, turn left onto State Rte 235 N.
7. Continue on State Rte 235 N for approximately 13 miles.
8. Turn right onto County Rd 73.
9. Continue onto Co Rd 167.
10. Follow the road until you reach the Missionary Island Wildlife Area.

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Ohio
23

Ohio State Parks

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