Heckrodt Wetland Reserve — Attraction in Menasha

A Hidden Gem! A place that captivates the hearts of both kids and adults alike can be a challenge, but Heckrodt seems to have it all. Imagine a playground where the laughter of children fills the air, where ziplines soar above and mud kitchens invite little hands to get dirty. Picture a place where tunnel slides twist and turn, offering adventure at every corner.

But the fun doesn't stop at the playground. Well-maintained trails beckon families to explore, with easy-to-follow maps ensuring a stress-free adventure into nature. Along these paths, a bird viewing station offers a peaceful retreat, connecting visitors with the tranquil rhythms of wildlife.

As the seasons change, the reserve transforms, revealing frog ponds adorned with lily pads, where the chorus of frogs provides a natural symphony that enchants all who wander by. This sanctuary, a haven for families, is not only a place of joy and discovery but also a testament to the beauty of nature—and it's all available without a price tag.

This fantastic Nature Reserve is more than just a day out; it's an experience that nurtures the soul, educates the mind, and is accessible to everyone. It's a reminder of the simple pleasures that life has to offer and the importance of preserving such treasures for generations to come. Whether you're seeking a solo retreat or a family excursion, this reserve promises a memorable escape into the wonders of the...

Great little place with a surprisingly extensive network of trails that make you feel far more removed from the city than you actually are. Well-constructed boardwalks wind through wooded swamp, with occasional open water where one might find wood ducks and other wildlife. There are several goodies tucked away among these trails... like a blind, a large reconstruction of an eagle nest (which looked like it was meant to be climbed in), and a playground. There are also a large number of apparently resident deer that are easily spotted.

If you only have a short time, the smaller western edge of the reserve has much shorter trails that still boast some interesting things, including a stretch of open water which often hosts several species of waterfowl, a bridge spanning a small creek, and a small meadow. The staff seem to keep their bird feeders well-stocked, and Tufted Titmice are among the frequent visitors. Inside the nature center itself is a plethora of taxidermy as well as live specimens of native species. And the nice clean indoor bathrooms are always appreciated......

This is a beautiful place to go to just break away from the city with in the city limits. And on beautiful days a great place to take the family for a picnic with nice picnic tables right at the beginning of the park. They have a Nature Center to enjoy looking at turtles, fish and other information about the wild life in the area, very informational. They also have environmental education programs many are open to the public, see their program schedule for more information. Then after you have seen that you can head out on the trials that stretch out over76 acres. You'll come across a little lake in the back part of the woods and then wooden trials lead all over the wetlands with nice benches through out the park to sit and relax while enjoying the beauty of the day and watching the wild life. At the end of the trial there is a playground setting in a natural way for the children to play and the adults to watch. This park has many enjoyable areas that each person will enjoy Each season has its own beauty. You will enjoy it...