About Us

The Hearts Behind It All

The seeds of McWilliams Heritage Farm, Folk & Forest School were planted during a season of uncertainty. After settling into our farmstead, we embraced a more straightforward, more intentional way of life—gardening, homesteading, and nurturing our children through nature-based learning. But then, life took an unexpected turn, forcing us to reimagine our path.

We discovered forest schooling during this time—a radical and profoundly familiar idea. The concept of child-led learning, where children grow wild and free, resonated with everything we believed. We immersed ourselves in the philosophy, pursued certification, and created a space where children could learn through play, exploration, and connection to the land. What began as a dream soon became a thriving rural learning community—where little hands dig in the soil, sticks, and stories hold equal importance, and childhood is honored in its most organic form.

Our Mission

At McWilliams Heritage Farm, Folk & Forest School, we create a space for children to:

✔ Build a deep, lasting connection with nature through farm-based education and wild schooling.
✔ Learn through hands-on, unstructured outdoor play and child-led exploration.
✔ Develop confidence, resilience, and independence in a nurturing rural learning community.
✔ Be part of a thriving, like-minded homestead learning environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and connection.

Contact us

Join the Wildling Community

Do you have questions about our farm and forest school programs? Would you like to learn more about nature-based learning, child-led education, or homestead experiences? We’d love to hear from you, whether you're a parent, educator, or kindred spirit drawn to the rhythms of the wild. Reach out, and let’s connect. Spots for all programs are limited—reserve your child’s place today!

Located in the heart of Wisconsin’s countryside,

Fill out the form below, and we’ll reply soon! We can’t wait to welcome you to the McWilliams Heritage Farm, Folk & Forest School community.

Wildling Words

  • "Fresh well water, homesteading education."

    -Barb Austin

  • "Wonderful and informative presentation during the Hill & Valley Exploration Tour this year!"

    -Linda Lawson

  • “Good People, They welcome just about anyone (including me).”

    -Berry Nelson

  • “Thank you for documenting your farming experience. Harvey and Vera would have loved hearing about your adventures and knowing that their farm was staying in the family and teeming with life.”

    -Debrah Bennett