• What can visitors expect when exploring Wisconsin’s parks?
    • Lush greenery filled with diverse wildlife and migratory bird species.
    • Groomed winter trails ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
  • How many parks and recreation areas are in Wisconsin?
    • Wisconsin has 66 state parks and recreation areas.
    • These areas cover over 60,570 acres of natural landscapes.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Wisconsin’s parks?
    • Hiking through scenic trails.
    • Swimming in lakes and designated water areas.
    • Boating and fishing in pristine waters.
    • Canoeing and kayaking for water adventure seekers.
    • Scuba diving at designated sites.
    • Hunting in permitted areas.
    • Camping at designated campgrounds.
    • Picnicking in beautiful nature settings.

Best Time to Visit Wisconsin State Parks

  • May to June – Mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and great for hiking and camping.
  • September to October – Vibrant fall foliage, cooler weather, and perfect for scenic hikes.
  • July & August – Warm and sunny, ideal for swimming, boating, and lake activities.
  • December to February – Snowy landscapes offering skiing, snowshoeing, and peaceful winter walks.
  • Late September – Prime time for enjoying colorful autumn leaves and crisp air.

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1. Amnicon Falls State Park


Walk bridge trails and admire waterfalls on a peaceful weekend trip.

Amnicon Falls State Park

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  • What is Amnicon Falls State Park?
    • Amnicon Falls State Park is an 825-acre natural park in South Range, Wisconsin.
    • The park is popular for its waterfalls, scenic trails, and outdoor activities.
  • What is the most iconic feature of the park?
    • The park is home to a historic covered bridge, a major highlight for visitors.
    • The bridge offers breathtaking views of the Amnicon River, where a series of waterfalls flow around a small island and under the bridge.
    • Due to this natural beauty, the park has been designated an IUCN Category III natural monument.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Amnicon Falls State Park?
    • Swimming in the Upper and Lower Falls areas.
    • Hiking along scenic trails with views of waterfalls.
    • Snowshoeing during the winter months.
    • Camping at one of the park’s 36 campsites.
  • Where is Amnicon Falls State Park located?
    • Address: 4279 County Rd U, South Range, WI 54874
    • Phone: 715-398-3000

2. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore


Kayak sea caves and explore islands on an exciting summer adventure.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

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  • What is Apostle Islands National Lakeshore?
    • Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is an IUCN Category V protected landscape/seascape located at the northern tip of Wisconsin.
    • It features a stunning Lake Superior shoreline along with diverse natural habitats and old-growth forests.
  • What makes Apostle Islands National Lakeshore unique?
    • The park has more historic lighthouses than any other National Park Service area.
    • Visitors can explore sandstone sea caves, which are breathtaking natural formations.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore?
    • Hiking through scenic trails.
    • Kayaking and exploring the sea caves.
    • Boating across the pristine waters of Lake Superior.
    • Fishing in the park’s diverse aquatic ecosystems.
    • Scuba diving to explore underwater shipwrecks.
    • Camping on designated islands.
    • Limited hunting in designated areas.
  • Where is Apostle Islands National Lakeshore located?
    • Address: 415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814
    • Phone: 715-779-3397

3. Aztalan State Park


Discover ancient mounds and learn history on an unusual educational trip.

Aztalan State Park

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  • What is Aztalan State Park?
    • Aztalan State Park is a 172-acre historic park located in Jefferson County, Wisconsin.
    • It was established in 1952 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964.
    • The park was later added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.
  • What is unique about Aztalan State Park?
    • It preserves the remnants of an ancient Mississippian culture settlement that thrived between the 10th and 13th centuries.
    • Visitors can explore earthwork mounds originally built for political and religious purposes.
    • The largest platform mound features steps on its eastern face, which visitors can walk.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Aztalan State Park?
    • Exploring the archaeological remains of the Mississippian culture.
    • Hiking through scenic trails.
    • Picnicking in designated areas.
    • Hunting and trapping (in permitted areas).
    • Cross-country skiing during the winter months.
    • Fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking on the Crawfish River.
  • Where is Aztalan State Park located?
    • Address: N6200 County Rd Q, Jefferson, WI 53549
    • Phone: 920-648-8774

4. Blue Mound State Park


Bike scenic trails and enjoy panoramic views on a fun fall outing.

Blue Mound State Park

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  • What is Blue Mound State Park?
    • Blue Mound State Park is located at the highest point in Southern Wisconsin.
    • The park offers breathtaking panoramic views of the area's geological surroundings.
  • What features and facilities are available at Blue Mound State Park?
    • A large swimming pool for cooling off during the summer.
    • Over 20 miles of scenic trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.
    • Designated off-road biking trails for adventure seekers.
    • Multiple camping sites scattered throughout the park.
    • A rustic cabin designed for visitors with disabilities, ensuring accessibility for all campers.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Blue Mound State Park?
    • Hiking along the park's scenic trails.
    • Swimming in the park’s large pool.
    • Off-road biking for cycling enthusiasts.
    • Cross-country skiing during the winter months.
    • Camping at one of the designated sites or in the accessible rustic cabin.
  • Where is Blue Mound State Park located?
    • Address: 4350 Mounds Park Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517

5. Copper Falls State Park


Hike forest paths and see cascading falls on a romantic nature trip.

Copper Falls State Park

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  • What is Copper Falls State Park?
    • Copper Falls State Park is one of Wisconsin’s most scenic parks, known for its spectacular waterfalls, deep gorges, and ancient lava flows.
    • The park features historic log buildings constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Copper Falls State Park?
    • Hiking on trails, including the North Country National Scenic Trail.
    • Biking through designated park trails.
    • Picnicking in scenic areas surrounded by nature.
    • Swimming in the refreshingly cool waters.
    • Fishing in the park’s flowing streams.
  • What makes Copper Falls State Park unique?
    • The park is home to majestic waterfalls and deep gorges formed by ancient lava flows.
    • Visitors can admire historic log buildings built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
    • It offers breathtaking views along the North Country National Scenic Trail.
  • Where is Copper Falls State Park located?
    • Address: 36664 Copper Falls Rd, Mellen, WI 54546

6. Devil's Lake State Park


Climb quartzite bluffs and swim the lake on an exciting summer trip.

Devil's Lake State Park

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  • What is Devil's Lake State Park?
    • Devil's Lake State Park is the largest and most visited state park in Wisconsin.
    • It is the third oldest state park, established in 1911.
    • The park is open year-round for visitors to enjoy its natural beauty and recreational activities.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Devil's Lake State Park?
    • Hiking nearly 30 miles of scenic trails.
    • Picnicking along the picturesque lakeshore.
    • Swimming at one of the park’s sandy beaches.
    • Viewing stunning landscapes from atop 500-foot quartzite bluffs.
  • What makes Devil's Lake State Park unique?
    • It features a breathtaking 300-acre namesake lake surrounded by towering bluffs.
    • The park is rich in history and has been a beloved destination for over a century.
    • It provides visitors with year-round outdoor recreation opportunities.
  • Where is Devil's Lake State Park located?
    • Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913

7. Governor Dodge State Park


Paddle quiet lakes and hike wooded trails on an affordable getaway.

Governor Dodge State Park

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  • What is Governor Dodge State Park?
    • Governor Dodge State Park is one of the largest outdoor spaces in Wisconsin, spanning 5,350 acres.
    • The park features deep valleys, shimmering lakes, steep hills, bluffs, and a beautiful waterfall.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Governor Dodge State Park?
    • Hiking nearly 40 miles of scenic trails throughout the year.
    • Off-road biking on 8 miles of challenging trails.
    • Horseback riding on designated trails.
    • Camping in one of the park’s scenic sites.
    • Picnicking in designated areas surrounded by nature.
    • Water activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking on Twin Valley Lake and Cox Hollow.
  • What makes Governor Dodge State Park unique?
    • The park offers diverse landscapes, including lakes, waterfalls, hills, and bluffs.
    • It is a year-round destination for outdoor recreation, with trails open for hiking in warmer months and cross-country skiing in winter.
    • Visitors can enjoy a variety of trails for cycling, horseback riding, and winter sports.
  • Where is Governor Dodge State Park located?
    • Address: 4175 State Highway 23, Dodgeville, WI 53533
    • Phone: 608-935-2315

8. Harrington Beach State Park


Stroll sandy shores and watch waves on a relaxing summer escape.

Harrington Beach State Park

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  • What is Harrington Beach State Park?
    • Harrington Beach State Park is a 715-acre park featuring wetland ponds, grasslands, hardwood forests, and a limestone quarry lake.
    • The park offers stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Harrington Beach State Park?
    • Picnicking at designated areas with scenic views.
    • Hiking along 7 miles of trails through diverse landscapes.
    • Bird watching in the park’s rich natural habitats.
    • Camping at designated sites for a peaceful outdoor experience.
    • Fishing in the scenic limestone quarry lake.
    • Stargazing at the park’s on-site observatory, which offers public viewings each month.
    • Sunbathing and relaxing along the 1 mile of Lake Michigan shoreline.
  • What makes Harrington Beach State Park unique?
    • The park features a limestone quarry lake surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
    • Visitors can see the remains of a 700-foot pier used for shipping limestone in the early 1900s.
    • It is one of the best locations in Wisconsin for stargazing thanks to its public observatory.
  • Where is Harrington Beach State Park located?
    • Address: 531 Co Rd D, Belgium, WI 53004

9. Hartman Creek State Park


Fish peaceful lakes and explore trails on a calm retirement trip.

Hartman Creek State Park

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  • What is Hartman Creek State Park?
    • Hartman Creek State Park is a beautiful outdoor recreation area that offers a wide variety of activities, including hiking, biking, camping, and swimming.
    • The park features 10 miles of scenic trails and 12 miles of off-road biking trails.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Hartman Creek State Park?
    • Hiking and horseback riding along 10 miles of trails.
    • Off-road biking on 12 miles of designated trails.
    • Swimming at the 300-foot sand beach on Hartman Lake.
    • Camping at designated campsites within the park.
    • Picnicking at the multi-use lawn area with picnic tables and facilities.
  • What amenities are available at Hartman Creek State Park?
    • A 300-foot sand beach with a designated swimming area.
    • A picnic area with picnic tables, changing rooms, restrooms, and drinking water.
    • Trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
  • Where is Hartman Creek State Park located?
    • Address: N2480 Hartman Creek Rd, Waupaca, WI 54981
    • Phone: 715-258-2372

10. Heritage Hill State Historical Park


Step into the past and tour historic buildings on a family-friendly trip.

Heritage Hill State Historical Park

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  • What is Heritage Hill State Historical Park?
    • Heritage Hill State Historical Park is a 48-acre outdoor green space that serves as a living history museum.
    • Established in 1972, the park is governed by the Heritage Hill Foundation.
  • What makes Heritage Hill unique?
    • The park features an open-air museum with over 30 historical structures.
    • Many of the structures are original, endangered historic buildings relocated for preservation.
    • Some structures are modern reconstructions to showcase historical architecture.
  • What historical structures can visitors see at Heritage Hill?
    • Buildings from Fort Howard.
    • Log cabins from the fur trade era.
    • Public buildings and stores from the late 19th century.
  • Where is Heritage Hill State Historical Park located?
    • Address: 2640 S Webster Ave, Green Bay, WI 54301


Best Time to Visit Top State Parks Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Devil's Lake State Park – Wisconsin's most popular park, with stunning rock formations and hiking trails. Visit early in the season – Enjoy waterfalls and spring blooms before the summer crowds.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for water activities. Peninsula State Park – A beautiful Door County park with scenic shorelines and biking trails. Reserve campsites early – Popular parks fill up quickly during peak season.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and breathtaking autumn foliage. Kettle Moraine State Forest – Enjoy hiking and scenic drives through glacially-formed landscapes. Plan a fall color road trip – Wisconsin’s state parks offer some of the best leaf-peeping in the Midwest.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy landscapes, great for winter sports. Governor Dodge State Park – A great spot for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking. Dress in layers – Stay warm and enjoy the beauty of Wisconsin's winter wonderland.

Plan Your Trip


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