Oakfield WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Oakfield, Wisconsin.
1. Oakfield Ledge State Natural Area
MAJESTIC NIAGARA ESCARPMENT VIEWS
Oakfield Ledge State Natural Area features one of the most significant exposures of the Niagara Escarpment in Wisconsin, with impressive 40-foot high dolomite cliffs that locals call 'the ledge'. Visitors can explore the deep crevices formed along fractures in the bedrock while enjoying the diverse vegetation of shaded cliff and boulder-strewn steep slopes consisting of basswood, sugar maple, and various elm species. The natural area offers beautiful hiking through prairie and woodlands that lead to the ledges, with spectacular views of golden Maximillian Sunflower, Goldenrod, and Stiff Goldenrod swaying in the breeze during certain seasons.
2. Horicon Marsh
PREMIER WILDLIFE VIEWING AREA
Horicon Marsh is a vast wetland ecosystem located near Oakfield that serves as critical habitat for migratory birds and wildlife. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, observation decks, and waterways while enjoying some of the best birdwatching opportunities in the Midwest. The marsh offers seasonal guided boat tours, canoe routes, and educational programs at the Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center.
3. Ledge Park
SCENIC CAMPING DESTINATION
Ledge Park offers camping and outdoor recreation opportunities along the picturesque Niagara Escarpment with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that wind through wooded areas and along limestone cliffs that showcase the geological wonder of the region. The park provides well-maintained campsites, picnic areas, and access to seasonal events that celebrate the natural beauty of Dodge County.
4. Wild Goose State Trail
SCENIC MULTI-USE PATHWAY
The Wild Goose State Trail is a 34-mile converted rail-trail that runs through scenic countryside near Oakfield, connecting Fond du Lac and Dodge counties. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy walking, biking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling (seasonally) along this well-maintained trail that passes through marshlands, farmlands, and wooded areas. The trail offers multiple access points, rest areas, and opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitats.
5. Mayville Limestone School Museum
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL HERITAGE
The Mayville Limestone School Museum preserves the educational heritage of the region in a beautifully restored limestone schoolhouse originally built in 1861. Visitors can explore authentic period classrooms, historical artifacts, and educational exhibits that showcase what school life was like in Wisconsin's early days. The museum hosts special events and demonstrations throughout the year that bring local history to life for all ages.
6. Fond du Lac Lighthouse
HISTORIC HARBOR BEACON
The Fond du Lac Lighthouse stands as a historic beacon at the southern end of Lake Winnebago, offering visitors a glimpse into the maritime history of inland Wisconsin. Visitors can climb to the top of this charming white lighthouse for panoramic views of Lake Winnebago and the surrounding shoreline. The lighthouse grounds feature informational displays about the structure's role in guiding vessels and its significance to local commerce and transportation.
7. Lakeside Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATIONAL PARADISE
Lakeside Park spans over 400 acres along the shores of Lake Winnebago, offering an abundance of recreational opportunities including playgrounds, picnic areas, and a historic carousel. Visitors can enjoy beautiful flower gardens, rent paddle boats, fish from multiple piers, or take advantage of the park's many sports facilities throughout the different seasons. The park hosts numerous community events and becomes especially magical during the holiday season with its spectacular light displays.
8. Marsh Haven Nature Center
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION HUB
Marsh Haven Nature Center is a non-profit environmental education center located at the northern edge of Horicon Marsh, offering interactive exhibits and programs focused on wildlife and conservation. Visitors can explore the main building's displays, observe live raptors in the outdoor aviary, and hike the nature trails that wind through restored prairie habitats. The center hosts seasonal events, workshops, and educational programs designed to connect people of all ages with the natural world.
9. Waupun Heritage Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Waupun Heritage Museum showcases the rich history of Waupun and the surrounding areas through carefully curated exhibits housed in a historic Carnegie Library building. Visitors can explore displays featuring Native American artifacts, early settler memorabilia, agricultural implements, and photographs depicting the evolution of this Wisconsin community. The museum's knowledgeable volunteers offer insights into local history and the cultural heritage that shaped this region of Wisconsin.
10. Octagon House
UNIQUE HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE
The Octagon House is a distinctive eight-sided historic home built in 1856 that stands as one of Wisconsin's finest examples of unique 19th-century architecture. Visitors can tour this remarkably preserved residence to see period furnishings, historical artifacts, and architectural details that showcase the innovative design philosophy of the era. The house and its gardens offer a fascinating glimpse into Victorian-era domestic life and the social history of Fond du Lac's early prominent citizens.
11. Waupun City Park
SCULPTURE GARDEN SHOWCASE
Waupun City Park is known for its impressive collection of bronze sculptures created by noted artist Clarence Shaler, earning Waupun the nickname 'City of Sculpture.' Visitors can stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds to view these artistic masterpieces while enjoying the park's recreational amenities. The park hosts community events throughout the year and serves as a cultural centerpiece for the city with its unique blend of art and natural beauty.
12. Peebles Trail
SERENE NATURE PATH
The Peebles Trail offers a tranquil 9.5-mile path that connects the communities of Fond du Lac and Ripon through scenic rural landscapes. Hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts can enjoy this converted rail-trail that passes through wetlands, woodlands, and farm country with abundant opportunities for wildlife observation. The well-maintained crushed limestone surface makes this trail accessible for users of various abilities throughout most of the year.
13. Wade House Historic Site
LIVING HISTORY EXPERIENCE
The Wade House Historic Site preserves a stagecoach inn from the 1850s along with several historic buildings that recreate Wisconsin life during the Civil War era. Visitors can experience horse-drawn wagon rides, demonstrations of period crafts, and guided tours of the meticulously restored structures including a working sawmill. The site's Carriage Museum houses Wisconsin's largest collection of historic carriages and wagons, offering insights into 19th-century transportation and craftsmanship.
14. Gottfried Prairie and Arboretum
NATIVE ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION
The Gottfried Prairie and Arboretum showcases a restored 42-acre native prairie and educational arboretum located on the UW-Fond du Lac campus. Nature enthusiasts can explore well-marked trails through diverse prairie plantings that feature hundreds of native Wisconsin plant species and serve as habitat for birds and pollinators. The site offers educational programming, guided walks, and seasonal events designed to promote understanding of Wisconsin's natural heritage and ecological restoration.
15. Old Wade House State Park
HISTORIC TRANSPORTATION HUB
Old Wade House State Park preserves an important stagecoach stop and transportation hub from Wisconsin's territorial days in the mid-19th century. Visitors can tour the restored inn, blacksmith shop, sawmill, and carriage museum while learning about daily life and travel in the era before railroads dominated transportation. The park offers special events throughout the year including Civil War reenactments, heritage craft demonstrations, and seasonal celebrations that bring history to life.