Hum of Frogs and a Prairie Bouquet at Havenwoods State Forest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

An urban state forest finds its home in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Havenwoods State Forest represents the only urban forest in the state of Wisconsin inviting natural lovers to a spectacular oasis in an urban area. While hiking the trails of Havenwoods State Forest, we felt buoyed by nature discoveries we encountered in the preserve. We truly felt nestled away from hustle-bustle despite being in Milwaukee.

Enchanting woodlands of Havenwoods State Forest.

Restoration of a Nature Haven

Havenwoods represents a rehabilitated site. The 237-acre sanctuary including woodlands, grasslands and wetlands once was farmland, a correctional facility, an Army discipline barracks and a missile site. Today, visitors wander paths through a remarkably restored nature space.

Our midsummer visit delighted us to grasslands full of flowers! Prairie wildflowers of all colors delighted us with a beautiful bouquet! Queen Anne's Lace, wild parsnip, creeping bellflowers, milkweed, compass flowers, bergamot and more captivated us. Butterflies flitted around from flower to flower. Walking through Havenwoods' nature tableau lifted our spirits.

Havenwoods State Forest also includes thriving wetlands. A boardwalk invited us to walk through wetlands where we heard the lovely chorus of frogs. The framing of the wispy, blue-green wetland plants to the scene.

Brilliant and bold compass flowers at Havenwoods State Forest.

When visiting Havenwoods State Forest, you may wish to take a side adventure to the nature center. Unfortunately, it was closed during our visit. The preserve has plenty of space for picnics. The nest of trails provides the ability to have unique wanderings visit after visit. We love visiting the Milwaukee area and are thrilled to add this stellar preserve to our rotation of local nature adventures.