asylum point park & lighthouse - oshkosh, wi
I came across a photo of the Asylum Point Lighthouse in one of my map searches in the past couple years and was intrigued. At the time, however, the bridge connecting the mainland to the island where the lighthouse resides was damaged and unpassable. So I set the idea aside and put it on my future trip wish list. Recently I noticed the bridge was open again, and decided it was time to go check it out. I'm so glad I did.
Built in 1937 on a man made island in the bay of Lake Winnebago, this iconic lighthouse has a quaint charm. History tells that kerosene lanterns were sometimes used at the lighthouse, but the lighthouse has never been permanently lit, and does not serve as a navigational light to those sailing Lake Winnebago. Though the interior is not open to the public, the lighthouse stands strong at Asylum Point, and is a definite photo opportunity.
The day I visited, it was warm and sunny, with the perfect breeze. Sounds of the waves reverberated along the edges of the small island. I could see why local residents enjoyed spending time here, and why it was also called, at one time, Picnic Point. If you plan to picnic here, you'll want to bring a blanket or a lawn chair of some sort, as there are no picnic tables or benches on the island. A bench here wouldn't be a bad idea. (Just sayin'...).
In any case, there are plenty of trees, and some wildflowers along the edges, and a couple well worn, but very short, walking trails. I just found it very peaceful. I could imagine a quiet afternoon relaxing out on the island with a picnic lunch and a good book.
The rest of the park resides on the mainland at the intersection of Sherman and Snell Roads, and includes walking trails, plenty of trees, lake views, and picnic tables. Definitely a good bird watching spot. In fact, a flock of Pelicans flew overhead during my visit.
Of note, within a short distance of park grounds, is the Winnebago Mental Health Institute, formerly (originally) named the Northern Asylum For The Insane. The hospital was originally built in 1871, and the asylum cemetery is located nearby, with mostly unmarked graves. The cemetery grounds are not open to the public at this time.
Also within the park is a boat launch to Asylum Bay and Lake Winnebago. The Bay offers excellent fishing. A parking lot, and portable toilet are located in the boat launch area as well.
The park is open daily 4am to 11pm
Dogs are permitted on the trails, on-leash.
Owners must clean up after their pets.
Location: 3300 Sherman Road, Oshkosh, WI (Winnebago County)
For more information, click here and here.
Built in 1937 on a man made island in the bay of Lake Winnebago, this iconic lighthouse has a quaint charm. History tells that kerosene lanterns were sometimes used at the lighthouse, but the lighthouse has never been permanently lit, and does not serve as a navigational light to those sailing Lake Winnebago. Though the interior is not open to the public, the lighthouse stands strong at Asylum Point, and is a definite photo opportunity.
The day I visited, it was warm and sunny, with the perfect breeze. Sounds of the waves reverberated along the edges of the small island. I could see why local residents enjoyed spending time here, and why it was also called, at one time, Picnic Point. If you plan to picnic here, you'll want to bring a blanket or a lawn chair of some sort, as there are no picnic tables or benches on the island. A bench here wouldn't be a bad idea. (Just sayin'...).
In any case, there are plenty of trees, and some wildflowers along the edges, and a couple well worn, but very short, walking trails. I just found it very peaceful. I could imagine a quiet afternoon relaxing out on the island with a picnic lunch and a good book.
The rest of the park resides on the mainland at the intersection of Sherman and Snell Roads, and includes walking trails, plenty of trees, lake views, and picnic tables. Definitely a good bird watching spot. In fact, a flock of Pelicans flew overhead during my visit.
Of note, within a short distance of park grounds, is the Winnebago Mental Health Institute, formerly (originally) named the Northern Asylum For The Insane. The hospital was originally built in 1871, and the asylum cemetery is located nearby, with mostly unmarked graves. The cemetery grounds are not open to the public at this time.
Also within the park is a boat launch to Asylum Bay and Lake Winnebago. The Bay offers excellent fishing. A parking lot, and portable toilet are located in the boat launch area as well.
The park is open daily 4am to 11pm
Dogs are permitted on the trails, on-leash.
Owners must clean up after their pets.
Location: 3300 Sherman Road, Oshkosh, WI (Winnebago County)
For more information, click here and here.
All photos, blog posts, and content are copyright (c) 2014-2023 Kimberly Mackowski, unless otherwise noted. |
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