Wisconsin Quick Facts
- Personal Use PermitNot required (National/State Forests)
- Best SeasonApril - October
- Top SpeciesMorels, Chanterelles, Hen of Woods
- Key LocationChequamegon-Nicolet NF
Wisconsin offers excellent mushroom foraging opportunities with extensive public lands and a strong mycological tradition. The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and numerous state forests provide ample foraging ground.
Wisconsin Foraging Regulations
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
Wisconsin's only National Forest covers over 1.5 million acres in the northern part of the state. Personal use mushroom collection is allowed without a permit.
Personal Use Guidelines
You can collect up to 5 gallons per day for personal use without a permit on the Chequamegon-Nicolet. Commercial harvesting requires a permit.
State Forests & County Forests
Wisconsin State Forests generally allow mushroom collection for personal use. The state also has extensive County Forest lands that typically permit foraging. Check with specific county forest departments for local rules.
Best Mushrooms to Find in Wisconsin
Morels
Wisconsin's spring morel season is eagerly anticipated. Look in old orchards, near dead elms, and in disturbed areas. The Driftless Area in southwestern Wisconsin is particularly productive.
Chanterelles
Golden chanterelles fruit abundantly in Wisconsin's hardwood forests from July through September. Oak-hickory forests are prime habitat.
Hen of the Woods (Maitake)
A fall favorite found at the base of oak trees. Wisconsin produces excellent hen of the woods, often multiple pounds per cluster.
Wisconsin Mushroom Season
| Month | Species | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Late April-May | Morels | Statewide (south to north) |
| July-September | Chanterelles | Northern forests |
| September-October | Hen of Woods, Honey Mushrooms | Statewide |
Track Your Wisconsin Finds
Use Mushroom Tracker to GPS-tag your spots and identify species.
