The area was added to the National Wilderness Preservation System by Congress in 1978 as part of the Wisconsin Wilderness Act following an effort spearheaded by Sen. William Proxmire and Rep. Robert John Cornell.

[2] The area displays the rolling, uneven landscape caused by the Wisconsin Glacial Episode, typical of the Lake Superior highlands.

Logging roads and railroad grades are still evident in the area.

[3] Wildlife found in the wilderness area include American black bear, white-tailed deer, ruffed grouse, various songbirds, and fisher.

The Blackjack Springs area provides opportunities for camping, hunting, hiking, canoeing, birdwatching, and fishing.