Nature at Harrington Beach State Park

Explore the white cedar swamp in the eastern section of the park by following the half-mile-long nature trail that begins behind the North Picnic Area. Before the trees leaf out and shade the woods floor, spring flowers carpet the ground in April and May. Among the earliest to be seen is the marsh marigold with its shiny green leaves and bright yellow flowers.

Spring, summer, or fall a walk around Quarry Lake on the hiking trail that rings it is sure to be enjoyable. The deep, serene waters of this 26-acre lake are surrounded by limestone ledges out of which white cedars grow.

During the spring and fall migrations, Quarry Lake and also Puckett’s pond (by the upper parking lot) are resting and feeding spots for many species of ducks, including wood ducks with their beautiful plumage. Birders will want to visit Harrington Beach for the hawk migration as well.

In late summer the fields of the upper park come into their glory, as Queen Anne’s lace, asters, and goldenrod come into bloom. Adding to this colorful spectacle in late August, monarch butterflies gather for their fall migration. Nature photographers will want to bring their cameras and plenty of film, as they walk the ½ mile Meadowlark Hiking Trail.

The park is a wildlife refuge, home to whitetail deer and many similar animals. Around morning and evening twilight at any time of year, you can see deer emerging from the woods and crossing the open fields of the upper park.

Park Map [PDF 215KB]

For more information, ask Andrew Krueger, superintendent, (262) 285-3015.