Natural History Museum and Nature Center

Visit the Natural History Museum at the Forest Headquarters and take part in a nature program, see a video or check out the Trading Post Gift Shop. The headquarters is about three miles west of the village of Eagle on State Highway 59.

Things to do

Throughout the year, the forest naturalists present a wide array of fun-filled educational programs for children and adults. Memorial Day through Labor Day activities are regularly scheduled at locations around the forest. Don’t miss the wonderful wildflower hikes in the spring! See the Get Outdoors! Events Calendar for a list of all nature programs and events.

The 20-minute video Wisconsin's Kettle Moraine is shown in the auditorium by request. A number of paintings of local historical events by local artist Helen Wehler are also on display in the auditorium.

Become a Wisconsin Explorer and discover the natural world. Pick up a booklet at the nature center. The booklets are full of hands-on, exciting and educational activities for days on the beach, rainy days at home or starry nights. Complete at least half of activities and return it to any state park, forest or recreation area. Receive a patch and certificate for completing the activities.

Gift shop

Visit the Trading Post Gift Shop to find a variety of natural history books, maps, field guides, souvenirs and T-shirts. All sales help support the Kettle Moraine Natural History Association.

Nature trails

The Southern Unit-Kettle Moraine State Forest features six self-guided nature trails. These trails are family friendly and highlight unique land formations. Pets are not allowed on these trails, but are welcome on the other hiking trails. Self-guided nature trail booklets are available at the Forest Headquarters/Natural History Museum, the trailheads, Ottawa Lake and the Whitewater Lake contact station. Trail descriptions.

Field trips

Please contact the property for more information about school field trips.