Located in the central region of the Lower Peninsula, it encompasses approximately 9,252 acres (3,744 ha) in segmented portions within Clinton, Gratiot, and Ionia counties.

The only incorporated settlement located directly within the state game area is the small village of Maple Rapids in Essex Township.

At 16,684 acres (6,752 ha), the larger Gratiot–Saginaw State Game Area is located about 10 miles (16 km) to the northeast in Gratiot and Saginaw counties.

The game area is noted for its large bird populations, as well as an abundance of rabbits, turtles, deer, possums, coyotes, turkeys, snakes, and numerous rodents, such as muskrats, porcupines, squirrels, chipmunks, and beavers.

[citation needed] Water levels along the river and surrounding wetlands have started to dry up in recent years, leading to a sharp drop in the number of some animals.

[12] According to Birdwatching Magazine, the great horned owl, least bittern, prothonotary warbler, red-headed woodpecker, red-tailed hawk, and "the vast majority of Michigan's inland ducks" can also be found within the state game area.

Even rarer species of birds can be found, including Hudsonian godwit, Eurasian wigeon, snowy egret, and king rail.

A small section within Washington Township east of US 127 is designated as a wildlife refuge, prohibits hunting, and is only accessible at certain times of the year (off limits from September 1 to December 1).