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NatureHiking

A Bit Of An Unexpected Natural Wonder, Few People Know There Are Wild Cacti Hiding In Wisconsin

Spring Green Preserve State Natural Area in Wisconsin offers a unique opportunity to see native cacti thriving in a sand prairie ecosystem.

Published Jul 10, 2023

Written by 

Ben Jones

If you want to visit a field of cacti, you can head to states like Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico, or you can stay right here in Wisconsin. As it turns out, there’s more to the Dairy State than grass and maple trees - there’s a place where you can actually see native cacti thriving in the wild. Just head to the Spring Green Preserve State Natural Area, a place to see a cactus growing in Wisconsin. It’s an amazing sight and worth the trip to Spring Green. Here’s what you need to know.

Spring Green Preserve State Natural Area, also known as the “Wisconsin Desert,” is a 1,100-acre site that is home to a variety of unique plant species, including the prickly pear cactus

A grassy hill under a cloudy sky, surrounded by sparse trees and dry grass in a rural landscape.
Alltrails / Tom Brittain

The preserve is a remnant of a once more-extensive dry prairie ecosystem that was common in the region.

A sunset over rolling hills and a valley, with lush greenery in the foreground and a serene sky.
Alltrails / Estrella Teniente

The site is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and it's open to the public for hiking and nature observation.

A dirt path leads through a grassy field with a tree and a small shelter, surrounded by rolling hills under a clear blue sky.
Alltrails / Kristi K.

If you're interested in seeing the prickly pear cactus in Wisconsin, the Spring Green Preserve State Natural Area is a great place to start. However, please keep in mind that the cactus is a rare and endangered species in the state, so visitors are encouraged to stay on designated trails and avoid damaging or disturbing the plants.

A cluster of prickly pear cactus growing on dry, sandy soil surrounded by grass and fallen leaves.
Alltrails / Kelly Casselberry

The site’s terrain is unusual – while locals call it a desert, it’s actually a sand prairie on an old Wisconsin River terrace. The soil is very sandy.

A dirt path winds through a grassy field with a hillside and trees in the background under a cloudy sky.
Alltrails / Alwyn Fitzgerald

You can enjoy an out-and-back hike that covers nearly four miles. It travels through a portion of woodland, as well as a big expanse of prairie. Depending on the season, you may see many wildflowers, as well as some cacti!

A cactus with green pads and bright yellow flowers, surrounded by grass and sandy soil.
Alltrails / Alwyn Fitzgerald

Learn more about the Spring Green Preserve State Natural Area on the state Department of Natural Resources website. I've spent a lot of time in this area - it's worth the trip. Just be sure to first gear up for your hike at REI. Once you’ve taken in this amazing place, more wild hikes await. Here’s where to find the best Wisconsin attractions.

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