Havenwoods State Forest

Havenwoods is Wisconsin’s only Urban State Forest. Visitors of all ages can drop in any time from 8:30-4pm to see their reptiles and amphibians and participate in family-friendly activities. Join a naturalist on a 45-minute nature hike at 9 a.m. Adults and older kids can discover Havenwoods’ fascinating past in a 20-minute presentation at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 3 p.m. Explore this state forest right in your backyard!

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 soon 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 Department of Natural Resources began restoration of the area. Now it is a haven for animals, plants, and people.

Hike, run, bike, and watch wildlife on over 6 miles of trails. Explore the nature center [open Tuesday-Saturday 8:30 am to 4 pm], the forest’s ponds, stroll over the 120-foot bridge or find a bench to sit and relax outdoors.

The forest is open each day from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. and is located at 6141 N Hopkins St, Milwaukee, WI 53209.

Visit the DNR website for more information: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/havenwoods

Visit this website to learn about our Friends group and volunteer opportunities: https://www.friendsofhavenwoods.org/