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Tent Colony Woods

Tent Colony Woods

Highlight (Segment) • Forest

Tent Colony Woods

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5.0

(1)

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Location: Madison, Dane County, Wisconsin, United States

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UrbanExolorer_Mando

May 25, 2025

Hiking

Historical “Tent Colony”

UrbanExolorer_Mando

May 29, 2025

Hiking

The eastern two-thirds of Tent Colony Woods was once the home to a unique summer residential community, the Tent Colony, established for students attending the university’s summer session. Today, as you traverse this narrow shoreline woods along the Lakeshore Path east of Raymer’s Cove, look for clues that reveal something about the lives of these former “tent colonists.” Can it really be true that 300 people once lived here?

UrbanExolorer_Mando

May 29, 2025

Hiking

The university acquired Tent Colony Woods in 1911, as part of its acquisition of George Raymer’s farm. Some thought the purchase price of $1100 per acre to be outrageous, since the assessed value was closer to $150 per acre. Elected officials and the local papers challenged the university to demonstrate how this expansion along the northern edge of campus was justified.

Nearby routes

Best routes near Tent Colony Woods

4.3

(4)

hikers

#1.

Picnic Point Mound Group – Raymer's Cove loop from University of Wisconsin-Madison

6.37km

01:39

40m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

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#2.

Picnic Point Mound Group – Raymer's Cove loop from Madison

12.7km

03:17

70m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

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#3.