
Heckrodt Wetland Reserve
A serene city nature reserve with boardwalks, trails, and a nature center, perfect for wildlife viewing and family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for wildlife

Heckrodt Wetland Reserve
Best Time
Prime time for wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene city nature reserve with boardwalks, trails, and a nature center, perfect for wildlife viewing and family fun.
"A true community treasure, combining education, recreation, and natural beauty in one place."

👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Trails are easy, but you'll want comfy footwear for exploring the boardwalks and paths. :athletic_shoe:
🦟 Bring bug spray
Essential for enjoying the wetlands, especially during warmer months. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boardwalk Trails
Throughout the wetlands
Meander through the heart of the wetlands on well-maintained boardwalks, offering intimate views of the ecosystem.

Nature Center & Live Animals
Indoor facility
Discover local wildlife through engaging exhibits and observe live turtles, fish, and snakes.

Children's Play Area
Near the nature center
A magical space for kids with a sandbox, zip line, and mud kitchen, encouraging imaginative play.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Wildlife Spotting
Family Fun & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Trails are easy, but you'll want comfy footwear for exploring the boardwalks and paths. :athletic_shoe:
🦟 Bring bug spray
Essential for enjoying the wetlands, especially during warmer months. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
📸 Camera ready!
Abundant wildlife and scenic views make for great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
📚 Check nature center exhibits
Interactive displays offer great learning for all ages. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Trails are easy, but you'll want comfy footwear for exploring the boardwalks and paths. :athletic_shoe:
🦟 Bring bug spray
Essential for enjoying the wetlands, especially during warmer months. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
📸 Camera ready!
Abundant wildlife and scenic views make for great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
📚 Check nature center exhibits
Interactive displays offer great learning for all ages. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Heckrodt Wetland Reserve as a beautifully maintained community treasure, offering a perfect blend of education, recreation, and natural beauty. The accessible trails, engaging nature center, and fantastic children's play area make it a top-rated destination for all ages. While some may find the bug situation noticeable in warmer months, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, leaving visitors with a lasting impression of a well-cared-for natural oasis.
"We absolutely LOVE spending days here. The trails are easy hikes. The scenery is beautiful. Theres plenty of wildlife to see. But our favorite part is the playground with the sand box, zip line and mud/dirt kitchen! Such a fun spot for kids and parents!"
Bobbi Jo Rushmore
"Heckrodt Wetland Reserve is a beautifully maintained and thoughtfully designed place that offers something special for visitors of all ages. I especially appreciated the children’s play area, which encourages curiosity and hands-on learning in a fun, natural setting. The indoor activity center was another highlight, filled with interactive displays and exhibits that showcase local wildlife, habitats, and conservation in an engaging and accessible way.
The educational aspect of the reserve really stood out. It’s clear that a lot of care has gone into creating an environment where kids and adults alike can learn more about nature while enjoying it firsthand. The trails are peaceful and easy to navigate, offering plenty of opportunities to observe birds, plants, and wetland life up close. Everything throughout the property appeared to be well taken care of — clean, well-organized, and clearly maintained with pride.
Heckrodt Wetland Reserve is a true community treasure, combining education, recreation, and natural beauty in one place. Whether you’re stopping in for an afternoon stroll, bringing children to explore, or looking to learn more about the local ecosystem, it’s a place that consistently leaves a lasting positive impression."
Bryan “Dad of 4”
"Wonderful and looking forward to visiting again. We spent alot of time at the playground. Everyone was friendly too"
Renee Michele
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Heckrodt Wetland Reserve is located in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Many visitors find it a convenient stop for a nature escape within the city.
Yes, Heckrodt Wetland Reserve is a community treasure that is free to enter and explore. Donations are welcome to support its upkeep and educational programs.
The reserve is typically open daily from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy the trails and natural beauty throughout the day. The nature center may have specific operating hours, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most current information.
Absolutely! Heckrodt Wetland Reserve offers convenient and free parking for visitors, making it easy to access the trails and nature center.
While biking is not permitted on the boardwalks or nature trails to preserve the delicate ecosystem and ensure visitor safety, there may be designated areas or nearby paths where cycling is allowed. It's best to inquire at the nature center or check signage upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Heckrodt Wetland Reserve is completely free! It's a wonderful public space for everyone to enjoy the natural beauty of Oshkosh.
The nature center at Heckrodt Wetland Reserve is also free to enter. It offers educational exhibits and opportunities to see live local wildlife.
The reserve is generally open from dawn until dusk. While there isn't specific nighttime access, the extended daylight hours allow for ample exploration. Check with the nature center for any special evening events.
Yes, Heckrodt Wetland Reserve is an excellent educational resource for school groups. The nature center and trails provide hands-on learning opportunities about local ecosystems and wildlife.
For group visits, especially school groups, it's recommended to contact the Heckrodt Wetland Reserve nature center in advance to arrange your visit and inquire about any educational programs or guided tours they might offer.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, fish, and snakes. The wetlands are a vibrant habitat, and early mornings or late afternoons are often best for sightings.
Yes, the trails, particularly the boardwalks, are designed to be accessible for walkers, including those with medical conditions or disabilities. Benches are also available along the trails for resting.
Kids will love the fantastic playground featuring a sandbox, zip line, and mud kitchen. The nature center also has interactive displays and live animals that are engaging for children.
Picnicking is a great way to enjoy the natural surroundings. There are likely designated areas or benches where you can relax and have a meal, though specific picnic tables might be limited.
Cell service can be spotty within the reserve due to its natural setting. While there isn't public Wi-Fi, it's a great place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalks offer unique perspectives of the wetlands and wildlife. The nature center's live animal exhibits and the children's play area also provide interesting photographic subjects. Golden hour light in the late afternoon can be particularly beautiful.
Typically, drone usage is restricted in nature reserves to protect wildlife and ensure a peaceful experience for visitors. It's advisable to check the reserve's specific regulations or contact them directly before flying a drone.
Birdwatching and capturing images of wetland flora and fauna are very popular. Keep an eye out for waterfowl, songbirds, turtles, and various insects. Patience is key for great wildlife shots!
While the boardwalks bring you close to the environment, it's important to maintain a respectful distance from wildlife to avoid disturbing them. Use a zoom lens for clearer shots of animals in their natural habitat.
Early mornings and late afternoons, known as the 'golden hours,' offer soft, warm light that is ideal for photography. These times also coincide with increased wildlife activity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the dedicated play spaces, the accessible boardwalks and trails make it easy for families to explore the wetlands together. Informative signage along the paths educates both kids and adults about the local ecosystem. It's a perfect spot for a fun, educational, and active day out, with plenty of opportunities for discovery and wonder.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
The reserve's commitment to preserving these natural spaces means visitors can enjoy a relatively undisturbed environment. Bring your binoculars and a field guide to identify the local flora and fauna. The informative signage within the nature center and along the trails also adds depth to your understanding of the ecosystem, making it a valuable destination for both casual observers and dedicated naturalists.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ecosystems
The reserve also features prairie restoration areas, showcasing native grasses and wildflowers that attract pollinators and other grassland species. Walking through these open spaces offers a different sensory experience, with the rustling of grasses and the buzz of insects. The forest sections provide shade and a different array of plant and animal life, often including mature trees that create a sense of tranquility. This variety ensures that every visit can offer new discoveries and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Family Adventures at the Reserve
Complementing the outdoor play, the nature center offers a wealth of interactive exhibits that make learning about local wildlife and conservation exciting for all ages. Observing live animals like turtles, fish, and snakes up close provides a tangible connection to the ecosystem. The accessible trails and informative signage further enhance the family experience, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or mobility, can enjoy the beauty and educational opportunities the reserve provides.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit