Horicon Marsh Wildlife Refuge | Milwaukee

Horicon Marsh Wildlife Refuge, located in southeastern Wisconsin within Dodge and Fond du Lac counties, is one of the largest freshwater marshes in the United States, encompassing over 33,000 acres of protected wetlands. This vast natural area is divided into two main management zones: the northern two-thirds is designated as the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge and is overseen by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, while the southern third is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area. Together, these lands form a critical habitat for a wide variety of wildlife and serve as a significant ecological treasure.

Natural Landscape and Ecology

Horicon Marsh is a complex mosaic of shallow open water, emergent marsh vegetation, wet meadows, and upland forests. Its extensive wetlands provide an essential breeding, nesting, and feeding ground for more than 300 species of birds, including large populations of waterfowl such as ducks, geese, and swans. Notably, it supports the largest breeding population of redhead ducks east of the Mississippi River.

The marsh also hosts numerous other wildlife species, including muskrats, beavers, amphibians, reptiles, and a variety of fish species adapted to the wetland environment. The diversity of habitats within the marsh-from open water and cattail marshes to shrub and forested wetlands-creates rich biodiversity and sustains migratory species during critical seasonal movements.

Migratory Importance

Horicon Marsh is internationally recognized as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. Its position along major migratory bird flyways makes it a vital stopover and resting point for thousands of birds during spring and fall migrations. Each year, hundreds of thousands of migratory waterfowl use the marsh to refuel and nest, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers and researchers alike.

Recreational Opportunities

Visitors to Horicon Marsh can enjoy a wide array of outdoor activities focused on wildlife observation and nature appreciation:

Birdwatching: The marsh is world-famous among birders for its abundant and diverse avian populations, offering excellent opportunities to observe species such as sandhill cranes, herons, egrets, and numerous waterfowl.

Hiking and Walking Trails: Several trails wind through various parts of the refuge, including the Egret Trail, Redhead Trail, and Old Marsh Road. These trails allow visitors to explore different wetland habitats, offering chances to see wildlife up close and learn about the marsh’s ecology through interpretive signage.

Auto Touring: The 50-mile Horicon Marsh Parkway is a scenic loop road encircling the marsh, featuring multiple wildlife viewing areas, observation towers, and pull-offs for photography and birdwatching.

Fishing and Photography: Fishing is allowed in designated areas and can be rewarding for anglers targeting species adapted to marsh waters. The diverse and picturesque landscape also makes it a prime location for nature photography.

Educational Programs: The Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center, located near the refuge entrance off Highway 28, offers interactive exhibits, wildlife viewing scopes, and scheduled educational programs to deepen visitor understanding of the marsh’s natural history and conservation efforts.

Facilities and Visitor Information

The refuge and state wildlife area are open year-round from dawn to dusk, with no admission fee required. The visitor center provides maps, brochures, restrooms, and information to help plan your visit. Multiple observation towers and blinds are available throughout the marsh to enhance wildlife viewing without disturbing sensitive habitats.

Accessible boardwalks and trails accommodate visitors with mobility limitations, making the refuge welcoming to a broad audience. Seasonal guided tours and volunteer-led programs further engage visitors and promote stewardship of this vital ecosystem.

Nearest Major City

The closest major city to Horicon Marsh Wildlife Refuge is Milwaukee, Wisconsin, located approximately 60 miles southeast of the marsh. Milwaukee serves as a convenient urban hub for visitors, offering extensive accommodations, dining options, cultural attractions, and transportation services. The refuge is easily reachable from Milwaukee via U.S. Highway 41 and State Highway 49.

Horicon Marsh Wildlife Refuge stands as a premier conservation area and outdoor destination in Wisconsin, blending ecological richness with visitor-friendly access. Its vast wetlands, diverse wildlife populations, and educational resources make it an exceptional location for anyone interested in nature, wildlife observation, and the preservation of critical wetland ecosystems.