Oconto Falls offers water recreation and rural surroundings
Although the name Oconto Falls may conjure up dramatic images of raging rapids, it is actually a relatively peaceful place with a small city at its center. Two dams control the city’s falls, harnessing hydroelectric power and keeping the river level more consistent. Water recreation is one of the area’s main draws, although its proximity to Green Bay also makes it appealing to city workers looking for a more rural setting.
“In Oconto Falls, neighbors help and support each other,” says Ann Senn, a Realtor with Keller Williams who has lived in the area for more than 30 years. “Though it is a small community, it offers a hospital, several stores and restaurants and a lot of recreation.”
Mix of historical bungalows and newer ranch-style homes
In downtown Oconto Falls, sidewalks and tall hardwoods line some streets, and private driveways are relatively common. Farther from the city’s center, lots tend to be slightly larger, and sidewalks are rare. In the more rural outlying areas, long, private driveways lead to houses on multiacre properties. While some homes date back to the early 1900s, there are several newer builds as well. Designs include bungalows, Colonial Revivals and ranch-style homes, and prices tend to range from around $120,000 to $630,000, depending on condition and lot size. Although the dams regulate the water levels, heavy rain and snowmelt can lead to flooding along the river, so lenders may require flood insurance.
Summers on the Oconto River and a variety of winter sports
During the warmer months, residents flock to the Oconto River. “You can enjoy skiing, tubing, fishing, pontooning and kayaking,” Senn says. “There are also two public beaches and boat launches right in town.” Locals also have access to public green spaces, including Pleasant View Park, which features a ball field and a playground, and the River Island Golf Club has a nine-hole course that is open to the public.
Winter opens up new recreation opportunities. Snowmobilers can explore the nearly 500 miles of trails that wind throughout Oconto County. The Oconto Falls Lions also maintain a snow tubing hill with a motorized lift. “Kids and families have a blast on it,” Senn says. The Machickanee Cross Country Ski Trails, just a few miles south of the river, are another popular wintertime destination. Members of Small Town Fitness can use their indoor exercise facility all year round.
Many kids attend the B-minus-rated Oconto Falls schools
The far eastern portion of the community is zoned for the Lena School District, which gets a C-plus rating on Niche, but the majority of Oconto Falls is served by Oconto Falls Public Schools, which holds an overall B-minus rating. Oconto Falls Elementary School also gets a B-minus. In 2025, the district opened Oconto Falls Middle School, which features a large media center and gym. Oconto Falls High School receives a B-minus rating, and it offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including ice fishing, a drama club and cheer.
A few stores and locally owned restaurants, plus more in Green Bay
Residents can start their mornings with a latte from Milk & Honey Café, or they can opt for a hearty breakfast at Falls Family Restaurant, a long-standing diner with vinyl-upholstered booths. When the weather is nice, patrons can enjoy the patio outside Salscheider's Antique Bar & Liquor. For more upscale dining, Senn recommends the restaurant at the River Island Golf Club.
In terms of shopping, Oconto Falls covers most day-to-day needs. Iverson’s Piggly Wiggly is a full-service grocery store, and NAPA Auto Parts, Dollar General and the Oconto Falls Pharmacy carry other essentials. For more options, people drive into Green Bay.
Oconto Falls hosts summer music and winter ice drags
Locals gather for events throughout the year, but summers tend to be the most active. The season kicks off with a Memorial Day parade and carnival. There are also weekly farmers markets and monthly Music by the River concerts. Oconto Falls has also been a frequent host of the International Snowmobile Racing World Series of Ice Drags, a high-speed snowmobile race.
Local employers or commuting to Green Bay on U.S. 141
Oconto County offers as-needed transportation, but most people rely on cars for travel. The community’s employers include ST Paper LLC, the school district and HSHS St. Clare Memorial Hospital. Some residents commute to and from Green Bay, about 30 miles south, and U.S. Route 141 is the main thoroughfare. The Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport is around 35 miles away.
