Havenwoods State Forest

Havenwoods State Forest is a protected natural area in Milwaukee featuring forests, wetlands, and prairie habitats across nearly 237 acres. The site is crisscrossed with marked trails that allow visitors to move through and observe the different landscape types.

The land was once an industrial area before being transformed into a protected natural space in 1979. This conversion helped establish a refuge for native habitats within an urban setting.

The forest serves as a learning space where visitors encounter programs focused on understanding the ecosystems and wildlife found throughout the region. Local schools and community groups regularly visit to experience native Wisconsin habitats firsthand.

The site offers free admission and remains open throughout the year for exploration. The trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, allowing visitors to navigate easily while informational displays along the routes provide helpful context.

It remains the only state-managed natural space located entirely within Milwaukee's city boundaries, making it a rare urban refuge. This distinction means city residents can access genuine Wisconsin ecosystems without traveling far outside the urban core.