Forest Beach Migratory Preserve - Port Washington, WI

It used to be a golf course. Now, it's a little bit of paradise. Forest Beach Migratory Preserve is 116 acres along the Lake Michigan Flyway. Upon purchase of the former 18-hole fairway by the Ozaukee Washing Land Trust (OWLT), restoration of the property included native prairie, wetlands, and open grasslands, and a five-acre hardwood forest, with ephemeral ponds.

Prairie trails, wooded trails, ponds with heron, ducks, geese. Lots of birding, a special raptor viewing area, views of Lake Michigan from the raptor tower. I saw my first Indigo Bunting here.  It was momentous. It's a must visit during migration season, and worth the trip year-round.

The preserve is also home base for the Western Great Lakes Bat and Bird Observatory, who work to strengthen conservation efforts of bats and birds in Wisconsin, and throughout the Great Lakes Region. They work with other conservation partners within the state, host events throughout the year, and provide a wealth of information to the general public.

The building is available for rental for special occasions. The park is free to hike, and the trails are well groomed.  And it's not far from Harrington Beach, if you're feeling ambitious. 

Due to the nature of the preserve, pets are not allowed.
Hunting is allowed in the preserve. Click here for more info. 

Location: 4970 Country Club Road, Port Washington, WI (Ozaukee County)
For more information, click here.