State Forests_Content Page_NHAL Centennial

Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest Centennial

Come Celebrate 100 Years In 2025

A graphic reading "Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest: 1925-2025."
A public event will be held on June 7, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Crystal Lake Campground, beach and Nature Center areas. More information will be available soon.

As the Northern Highland-American Legion (NHAL) State Forest celebrates its centennial, it stands as a testament to the foresight of early conservationists and the enduring value of Wisconsin's natural heritage. From its rich history rooted in forestry innovation and management to its vital role in conservation and community enrichment, the state forest continues to inspire and welcome visitors. Whether exploring its winding trails, paddling across its pristine lakes, or simply marveling at its timeless beauty, you are invited to help honor a century of forest stewardship and learn more about how this living legacy will continue to be a vital part of Wisconsin’s Northwoods for generations to come.

During the NHAL’s 2025 centennial, we celebrate 100 years of managing this natural treasure for recreation, education and sustainable forestry, ensuring its legacy for generations to come.

Check out these three short videos to learn more about NHAL and the important role of Wisconsin's Northern Forests.

Call for photos

We’re gathering photos of the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025. Have a great shot, old or new? Send it to us for a chance to be featured in the Wisconsin DNR’s celebration.

Historic photo gallery

Take a look back through NHAL's history with these photos from the early 1900s.

Top 100 things to do by season

There’s plenty to see and do at NHAL for each and every season. Follow these guides for ideas of what to do at your next visit.

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

Centennial Bingo Card and Instructions

View and print the bingo card.

Complete 5 in a row, straight or diagonal, or complete 4 corners and the center. The first 100 participants to turn in completed bingo card get a first aid kit and a sticker (one kit per family/group). All participants will get a free centennial water bottle sticker while supplies last. 

To claim your prize, turn in your completed bingo card at Clear Lake Entrance Station, Crystal Lake Entrance Station, or the Woodruff DNR Service Center. 

100 Birds for 100 Years

View and print the checklist.

Whether you are an expert ornithologist or a novice birdwatcher, you are invited to discover all our feathered friends we have in the NHAL State Forest. How many can you check off?

2024 Holiday Tree

The NHAL State Forest provided the 2024 Governor's Executive Residence tree. Check it out!

A large pine tree being cut down by a logging machine.
A cut-down conifer being loaded onto a trailer for transport.
An evergreen decorated in white Christmas lights in front of a very fancy home. There's a small crowd outside the front door.
The front courtyard of a large, fancy home.
An evergreen decorated with white Christmas lights in front of a very fancy home.
A tall conifer being placed onto a concrete platform by a crane.