Doors Open: Havenwoods State Forest
Description
Havenwoods is now a quiet 237-acre state forest, but it has an exciting and diverse past. Before settlement, the area was wetlands and, most likely, hunting grounds. The family homesteads from the mid-1800s became the Milwaukee County House of Corrections in the early 1900s. An Army Disciplinary Barracks, Nike Missile site and city landfill followed. For a while, the future of this area was undecided and uncertain. Thanks to a vocal, active group of citizens, community leaders and public officials working together, this land was set aside as a green space in the middle of a large urban community. In 1979, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources began restoration of the area. Now it is a haven for animals, plants and people.
Havenwoods is Wisconsin’s only Urban State Forest. Visitors of all ages can drop in to meet reptiles and amphibians and participate in family-friendly activities.
- 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Home and Habitat Fest - A free, family-friendly event focused on housing and natural resources.
- 1 p.m.: Uncover the fascinating past of Havenwoods during a 20-minute presentation. *Best for adults and older kids
- 1:30 p.m.: Watch the Havenwoods animal ambassadors eat their lunch.
Explore this state forest right in your backyard!