Horicon Marsh

Horicon Marsh is a national and state wildlife refuge in the state of Wisconsin in the United States of America.

Understand

The Horicon Marsh is one of North America's most important wetland habitats and one of 22 "Wetlands of International Importance" recognized in the U.S. Year-round, the marsh teems with life.

History

Mankind nearly obliterated this natural treasure. Upon coming to the area in the mid 1800s, white settlers commenced to alter the marsh, and in the 1900s, the marsh was even drained. The fact that the marsh exists today is a testament to the hard efforts of forward-thinking individuals and the adaptability of Mother Nature. Through the efforts of concerned citizens, conservationists and sportsmen in the 1930s, the water levels of the marsh were restored and the marsh was slowly reborn. The old roots and seeds of the marsh plants that were dormant for decades suddenly came back to life. Flocks of birds, including some species which hadn't been seen on the marsh for decades, returned each year in greater numbers. The marsh you see today is a result of 70 years of careful management. When you look out over the vast marsh, you aren't just seeing the wonders of nature--you're witnessing an ongoing success story.

Landscape

The Horicon Marsh has 32,000 acres of water, woods, and prairie.

Flora and fauna

The Horicon Marsh has 32,000 acres of water, woods and plantlife. It is home to one of the widest arrays of plants and wildlife in all the Midwest.

Fees and permits

No fees or permits.

Get around

Car, pontoon boat, canoe, bike, kayak, feet

See

Over 300 species of birds have been seen at the marsh. One of the top birding spots in the Midwest.

Do

• Pontoon and birding tours
• Canoe and kayak rentals, offered by Blue Heron Landing in Horicon.
• Also hiking, biking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, driving tours in the area.

Eat

• Benvenutos Italian
• Ginger's Hideaway
• Mother's Day Restaurant
• Ice Cream Station
• Audubon Inn Restaurant

Drink

Rock River Tap, Danny's Boy

Sleep

Lodging

• Honeybee Inn Bed and Breakfast
• Royal Oaks Motel

Camping

• Ledge Park