At least once in a while, it is essential to take a break from our busy lives and reconnect with nature. There are many beautiful state parks in Wisconsin that provide stunning scenery and various outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing.
Ever wondered what it’s like to stand at the top of a 500-foot sandstone cliff or see a waterfall on the largest freshwater lake in the world? As a nature lover, one will surely fall in love with Wisconsin's state parks. From the breathtaking views of Devil's Lake to the lush forests of Northern Highland-American Legion, there is something for every outdoor enthusiast.
10 Devil’s Lake State Park
Famous for its 500-foot quartzite bluffs and clear, cold waters, Devil’s Lake State Park is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and rock climbing. In addition, it also has various campgrounds and even beachfront cabins for visitors to stay overnight. The park was founded in 1911 and is Wisconsin’s most visited state park, with over 3 million visitors yearly. With stunning views and beautiful scenery like Balanced Rock, Devil’s Lake is a must-visit for nature lovers.
9 Peninsula State Park
Just a few miles north of the city of Fish Creek lies Peninsula State Park, known for its stunning views of Green Bay. It is Wisconsin’s third most visited state park and offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boating. Other than its natural beauty, the park also features a theater and golf course for visitors to enjoy. Why not spend a day at the beach or take a hike through the park’s wooded trails and appreciate the park’s breathtaking views of Lake Michigan?
8 High Cliff State Park
Don't be fooled by its small size - High Cliff State Park offers some of the most beautiful views in Wisconsin. It is nestled along Lake Winnebago and offers breathtaking views of the lake from its 500-foot limestone cliffs. The park has various hiking trails, a marina, and even a historic quarry. Additionally, it is home to the largest effigy mound in Wisconsin, built by Native Americans over 1,000 years ago. Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning scenery and rich history of High Cliff State Park.
7 Kohler-Andrae State Park
Is the idea of basking in the sun on a sandy beach attract a visitor? Perhaps a short drive to Sheboygan is worth it for a visit to Kohler-Andrae State Park. Along with its beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan, the state park also offers hiking trails through its unique sand dunes and a campground for overnight visitors. It is also home to Black River State Forest, offering visitors the chance to explore its lush forests and see various wildlife, such as white-tailed deer and red foxes.
6 Newport State Park
With many places to vacation in Wisconsin, Newport State Park stands out for its quiet, remote location on the Door County Peninsula. It is the only designated wilderness park in the state that offers over 11 miles of pristine Lake Michigan shoreline and various hiking trails. As a designated Dark Sky Park, Newport State Park also provides visitors an opportunity to marvel at the night sky and witness spectacular views of the stars. Take some days off to truly immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of this park.
5 Amnicon Falls State Park
Approximately an hour south of Superior lies Amnicon Falls State Park, a hidden gem among Wisconsin’s state parks. It has various trails and bridges, allowing visitors to see its beautiful waterfalls, as well as a historic log dam and former hydroelectric power plant. In the winter, the frozen waterfalls make for a stunning sight and serve as a popular destination for ice climbers. Wouldn't a hike through the park’s wooded trails, followed by a picnic next to Amnicon Falls, make for the perfect day outdoors?
4 Willow River State Park
Just because Wisconsin is known for its beautiful lakes doesn’t mean there aren’t stunning rivers. Willow River State Park, located just outside of Hudson, has several hiking trails leading to its magnificent waterfall and scenic gorge. Visitors can also dip in the park’s swimming pool or spend the night at one of its campgrounds. And don’t forget to check out Little Falls Lake, a picturesque lake within the park that is popular for fishing and paddling.
3 Perrot State Park
Its name may not be as well-known as some of Wisconsin’s other state parks, but Perrot State Park is definitely worth a visit, which can be found just outside of Trempealeau, along the Mississippi River. The park boasts beautiful views of the river and its backwaters, along with hiking trails leading to its highest point in the park, Brady’s Bluff. Birdwatching is also popular at Perrot State Park, as it is home to more than 200 different species of birds. Don’t forget to bring binoculars!
2 Lake Wissota State Park
Because of its proximity to the popular city of Eau Claire, Lake Wissota State Park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The park offers various recreational activities, such as hiking trails, swimming beaches, and even an 18-hole championship golf course. But one of the biggest draws of Lake Wissota State Park is its namesake, Lake Wissota. Visitors can enjoy boating and fishing on the lake and take in its beautiful scenery. During winter, the lake becomes a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Make sure to bring the hiking essentials that a traveler should always have for a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience!
1 Governor Thompson State Park
Experience northern Wisconsin at its finest with a visit to Governor Thompson State Park. Its history as a Civilian Conservation Corps camp in the 1930s adds to its charm, as visitors can still see remnants of the CCC’s work in the park’s stone buildings and surroundings. Governor Thompson State Park offers various opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking trails, a swimming beach on Lake Metonga, and even a disc golf course. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for wildlife – the park is home to various animals, including black bears and timber wolves.