A 468-acre pocket of forest and fields in southern Wicomico County, the original Johnson WMA was purchased by the state in 1926, when the United States was first recognizing the growing need to conserve natural resources. Originally called Johnson Schoolhouse Game Refuge, its 153 acres were used to raise game animals for release into the wild. In 2017, additional parcels of land purchased from ACE Timberlands LLC (totaling 315 acres), were added to Johnson WMA. These newly acquired parcels had been part of a large commercial timber landholding for many years prior to State purchase. Today, Johnson WMA is a favorite spot for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy eastern Maryland's bountiful wildlife. Johnson WMA is also the location of the Natural Resource Police lower shore eastern regional office.

What To See

Forest dependent wildlife, including many species of colorful songbirds, dwell at Johnson WMA. Yellow-throated vireos and black-and-white warblers use the mature oak forests for nesting and finding insects to eat. Downy and hairy woodpeckers feed on the insects found in dead or dying trees and red-eyed vireos fill the springtime forest with their lilting song, similar to that of the American robin. The lonesome sound of the whip-poor-will can sometimes be heard across the open fields and forest edges. Bird lovers will find more than a day's worth of bird variety, especially during migration periods in the spring and fall.

What To Do

Hunters come to Johnson WMA for the white-tailed deer, gray squirrels, woodcock, wild turkeys and cottontail rabbits which roam the forests and fields. Deer hunting is only allowed using archery equipment only. Hikers will find many unmarked trails for bird-watching, nature photography or just a daytime get-away.

Area Regulations

• Use of Johnson WMA is generally permitted seven days a week throughout the year.
• Hunting is allowed in accordance with open seasons and shooting hours.
• All State and Federal Hunting Laws and Regulations are applicable.
• Trapping is by permit only.
• Deer hunting is allowed with archery equipment only.
• No motorized vehicles are allowed.

Non-hunting Users Guide

• Non-hunting visitors are welcome.
• Be aware of open hunting seasons and visit accordingly.
• Season dates available in newspapers, on the Internet, and at some area stores.
• Trails are maintained and suitable for hiking, nature photography, birding, hunting and other recreational activities, but are not actively marked.
• Visitors to the management area should be aware that there may be biting flies, mosquitoes, and ticks present.

Site Management Goals

• A complex of old fields has been managed to provide habitat diversity for native species.
• Maintain and/or enhance the integrity of current forest habitats to benefit wildlife such as wild turkey, white-tailed deer, gray squirrel and other forest dependent species.

Directions

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