MMSD and MSCR Partner to Build New School Forest Cabins

by Kaleab Afeworki, age 14

The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) and Madison School and Community Recreation (MSCR) have officially partnered to begin construction of a forest campground in Verona.

This campground will have a bunch of new necessities featuring thermal insulation, metal roofing, and engineered sliding. These additions will enhance year-round durability and extend season programming. “The Madison School Forest has given thousands of MMSD students a chance to experience nature, community, and hands-on learning,” said Mary Roth, executive director of MSCR. She says these new cabins can ensure these programs continue for generations to come.

The campground is around 307 acres and is located about 20 miles outside of Madison. It is owned by MMSD and is being maintained by MSCR. The Board of Education has awarded the construction with $846,648, on top of MSCR’s maintenance budget, so the campground can be in its best state. Demolition of the existing structures happened after the MSCR’s 2025 summer camp season. “For more than six decades, these cabins have supported outdoor education in Dane County,” said Scott Chehak, the senior executive director of building services.

The Madison Metropolitan School District is the second-largest school district in Wisconsin, with 25,000 students attending within 52 schools. MMSD is working to advance the district’s goals and core values, in addition to its efforts, so students can learn, belong, and thrive. Every year, MSCR provides environmental education, overnight, and daytime camping to over 7,500 MMSD students and community members.

These forest camps will help students learn about the outdoor world, camping, and hunting.

[Sources: Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce; MSCR; Channel3000]