Oconto County Between Marshland and History

The Oconto Marsh Unit offers a concrete introduction to the natural environment of Oconto County: A trail leads through marshland, and an observation platform complements the nature area. Historic sites also feature stories that span from prehistoric times to Wisconsin’s timber industry. This lets you choose different focuses for your trip, from wildlife watching to cultural history.

Marshland and Rare Plants

The Oconto Marsh Unit covers about 1,070 acres in Oconto County. It is located about one mile northeast of Oconto on County Road Y. The observation platform and 2.8-mile trail offer different perspectives on the marshland: The trail passes through it, while the platform provides a place to observe. Migratory birds and numerous animal species are drawn to the area; the unit is also a destination for birdwatchers.

Hagar Mountain offers a different natural setting. This 1,006-acre natural area is located in Oconto County within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Exposed habitats on igneous rock support unusual plant communities and rare plant species. Rock outcrops offer scenic views. One of the few waterfalls on the Nicolet is also located in the Hagar Mountain area. Together, these features show that natural attractions in the county are not limited to marshland: Rocky habitats and their rare plant life are also a focus here.

History Across Different Periods

Copper Culture State Park was the site of a prehistoric burial ground used by members of the Old Copper Complex. These people inhabited the northern Midwest from about 4000 to 2000 BC. At the Copper Culture Museum, children can experience an excavation for themselves at a replica dig site. Since exhibits may change, check before your visit to see whether this activity will be available.

The Beyer Home takes you to a much later period: Cyrus and Kitty Hart built the house in 1868; it is considered one of the first brick houses in the county. Its interior was restored in the 1970s to its 1890s condition. The time it was built and its later restoration point to two distinct historical reference points for the same house.

Holt & Balcom Logging Camp was established in 1880, during the height of the white pine era in Wisconsin’s timber industry. According to the organization that maintains it, it is considered the oldest logging camp in the United States still standing on its original foundation. The Holt & Balcom Logging Camp Museum is open in summer on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; tours are available by request. Since seasonal opening hours may change, check the hours before visiting.

More Ways to Explore the County

The city of Oconto also offers a starting point for those interested in cultural history: More than 33 historic sites there are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. At the county level, the Parks Department operates six parks. The Nicolet State Trail begins in the Town of Gillett near the border between Oconto County and Shawano County; no state trail pass is required for the trail. These details help put the variety of topics in the county into perspective without reducing nature destinations and historic sites to a single type of outing.

Discover more destinations: Sobieski, Marinette County, Shawano County, Wood County, Waupaca County, Sawyer County, Racine County, Rusk County.

For the broader travel overview: Wisconsin.