Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Lakewood Pines State Natural Area is located in northwestern Wisconsin and protects one of the state's finest examples of old-growth red and white pine forests. Established to preserve these towering pine stands, the area covers a mix of forested hillsides, wetlands, and small streams that offer critical habitats for a variety of plant and animal species. The natural area provides visitors with a chance to explore quiet, undeveloped woodlands where mature pines can reach impressive heights and ages, some over 200 years old. The forest floor features an understory of hardwoods and ferns that flourish in the shaded environment. This site is an important refuge for wildlife such as white-tailed deer, black bear, and numerous bird species including owls, woodpeckers, and warblers. Hiking trails wind through the area, providing scenic views and opportunities for solitude in nature. Visitors often come for birdwatching, photography, and peaceful walks among towering trees. While the area lacks developed facilities, it offers a raw and immersive experience ideal for visitors seeking less crowded, natural forest landscapes. Its historical significance lies in preserving a rare example of Wisconsin's pre-settlement pine forests that once dominated the region before extensive logging in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Lakewood Pines State Natural Area remains a critical link in regional conservation efforts supporting ecological diversity and forest regeneration.
