Best Wisconsin State Parks Worth a Visit

Wisconsin has 49 state parks, and it’s hard to choose which are the best Wisconsin State Parks worth a visit because we love them all. All parks are managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and more. Each state park has its own unique features and attractions, making Wisconsin a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

There are many reasons to explore Wisconsin state parks. Here are a few:

1. Natural beauty: Wisconsin state parks offer stunning natural beauty, from the forests and lakes of the Northwoods to the bluffs and rivers of the Driftless Area. The state’s diverse landscapes provide a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.
2. Outdoor recreation: Wisconsin state parks offer a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, boating, swimming, and more. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure, there’s something for everyone at Wisconsin state parks.
3. Cultural and historical significance: Many Wisconsin state parks have cultural and historical significance, providing a glimpse into the state’s rich history and heritage. From Native American burial mounds to historic homesteads and settlements, there’s much to explore and learn at Wisconsin state parks.
4. Affordable: Wisconsin state parks are affordable, with low admission fees and camping fees. This makes them a great option for families and budget-conscious travelers.
5. Conservation and preservation: Wisconsin state parks are dedicated to the conservation and preservation of the state’s natural and cultural resources. By visiting and supporting these parks, you’re helping to ensure that these resources are protected for future generations to enjoy.

The best Wisconsin state parks offer something for everyone, from nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs and families. With so many parks to choose from, there’s always a new adventure waiting to be discovered in Wisconsin.

Here are some of the best Wisconsin state parks:

1. Devil’s Lake State Park: Located in Baraboo, Devil’s Lake State Park is one of Wisconsin’s most popular state parks. The park is known for its stunning views of the 500-foot quartzite bluffs and its crystal-clear lake. The park offers hiking trails, rock climbing, camping, swimming, and fishing.
2. Peninsula State Park: Located in Door County, Peninsula State Park is a popular destination for camping, biking, and hiking. The park boasts beautiful views of the Green Bay shoreline, several sandy beaches, and historic lighthouses.
3. Wyalusing State Park: Located in southwestern Wisconsin, where the Wisconsin River meets the Mississippi River, the park is located about 17 miles south of Prairie du Chien and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
4. Copper Falls State Park: As mentioned earlier, Copper Falls State Park is located in Mellen, Wisconsin and is known for its two main waterfalls, Copper Falls and Brownstone Falls. The park offers hiking trails, camping, picnicking, and fishing.
5. Governor Dodge State Park: Located in Dodgeville, Governor Dodge State Park is known for its beautiful natural scenery and wildlife. The park offers camping, hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing.
6. Pattison State Park: Located in Superior, Pattison State Park is home to the state’s highest waterfall, the 165-foot-tall Big Manitou Falls. The park also offers camping, hiking, fishing, and swimming.

These are just a few of the best Wisconsin state parks worth a visit. Each park has its own unique attractions, so be sure to research and visit the ones that interest you the most.

The Best Wisconsin State Parks That are Lesser-Known (But Worth a Visit)

Wisconsin has many state parks, some of which are well-known and heavily visited, while others are lesser-known gems. Here are a few lesser-known Wisconsin state parks worth exploring:

1. Wildcat Mountain State Park: Located in the Driftless Area of southwest Wisconsin, Wildcat Mountain State Park offers stunning views of the surrounding bluffs and valleys. The park features hiking trails, camping, and fishing in the Kickapoo River.
2. Roche-a-Cri State Park: Roche-a-Cri State Park is located in central Wisconsin and features a 300-foot rock formation with Native American petroglyphs. The park also has hiking trails and camping.
3. Perrot State Park: Perrot State Park is located on the Mississippi River in western Wisconsin and offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding bluffs. The park features hiking trails, camping, and fishing.
4. Governor Nelson State Park: Governor Nelson State Park is located on Lake Mendota near Madison and offers hiking trails, camping, and a beach. The park is a great spot for bird watching and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding wetlands.
5. Copper Culture State Park: Copper Culture State Park is located in northeastern Wisconsin and features a prehistoric Native American burial ground. The park also has hiking trails and a picnic area.

These are just a few examples of lesser-known Wisconsin state parks that offer unique experiences and natural beauty. If you want to visit the best Wisconsin State Parks, these are just some suggestions.