Delaware

The Gaffney Wildlife Area is located 1 mile north of Manchester in section 17 and 18 of Delaware Township (T89N-R5W), Delaware County, Iowa.

In 1961 the Delaware County Conservation Board purchased 22.0 acres from Vincent Gaffney as a public hunting area and named the area after the family.

This area also provides an opportunity for outdoor recreation and enjoyment on an undeveloped natural area. Due to its proximity to a neighboring housing development hunting is restricted to bow hunting.

The 3.0-acre wetland on the southeast corner of this property filters surface water run-off and provides habitat for variety of waterfowl such as wood ducks and other birds requiring wetland habitat. It is also a great place for amphibians.

The Gaffney Wildlife Area provides habitat for white tailed deer, wild turkey, furbearers, song birds and other species. It is managed as a walk-in area with undeveloped trails which allows people the opportunity to enjoy the natural features of this area.

Location

1856 Firefly Rd

Manchester, IA 

Features

This natural area amenities include:

• Hiking
• Wildlife Observation
• Bow Hunting Only

Operating Hours & Seasons

This natural area is open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm

Closures

All parks and natural area remain open all year. However, facilities are closed to vehicle traffic and allow only walk-in access during the late fall and winter season. Parks with campground are usually open from mid-April through mid-October.