Find a Wisconsin State Park or Forest

Wisconsin state parks, forests, and recreation areas are as varied as the areas around them--there are forests, prairies, lakes, rivers, hills, and valleys. You'll find campgrounds, trails, historic and archaeological sites, places for solitude and places for large group gatherings.

Click on a symbol or name on the map or see the alphabetical list below it for more information. State trails, including some with campgrounds, are on another map. If you're interested in places with particular facilities or activities, see our Pick a Park page.

Amnicon Falls State Park
This 825-acre park south of Superior on Hwy. 2 features waterfalls and rapids along the Amnicon River, viewed from a covered foot bridge. Camping, picnicking, and interesting geology. C/o 6294 S. State Rd. 35, Superior 54880-8326. Winter: (715)399-3111; Summer: (715) 398-3000. Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Aztalan State Park
South of I-94, near Lake Mills, this park is an important archaeological site, the location of a 12th century Indian village. The park offers picnic areas, hiking trails and fishing. C/o 1213 S. Main, Lake Mills 53551. (920) 648-8774. Current conditions. Park map [PDF 65KB]. State map

Belmont Mound State Park
The Belmont Lions Club operates and maintains this park. Belmont Mound, an outlier of the famed Niagara dolomite escarpment, reaches nearly 400 feet above the Village of Belmont. From the 64-foot observation tower on top, you can see for many miles in all directions. The wooded mound abounds in berries and wildlife. It has picnic and playground facilities but no camping. Wisconsin's First Capitol historic site is less than a mile to the west. c/o 7896 Lake Rd., Blanchardville 53516. (608) 523-4427. State map

Big Bay State Park
Located on Madeline Island, the park features picturesque sandstone bluffs with caves where Lake Superior laps at the shoreline. A family campground, including walk-in campsites; outdoor and indoor group camps; hiking and nature trails; and 1.5 miles of sand beach await visitors. Box 589, Bayfield 54814-0589. (715) 747-6425. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Big Foot Beach State Park
This 272-acre park on the shores of Lake Geneva offers wooded campsites, 2,200 feet of sand beach and picnic areas. Located in resort and recreation area. Year-round alcohol ban. Open mid-May through October. 1452 Hwy. H, Lake Geneva 53147. (262) 248-2528. Reserve a campsite. State map

Black River State Forest
Located in Jackson County off I-94, this four-season recreation area is best known for its hiking and cross-country ski trails. Camp, swim, hunt, fish, snowmobile, ATV and canoe on nearly 67,000 acres of pine and oak forests. 910 Hwy. 54 E, Black River Falls 54615-9276. (715) 284-4103. Forest map [PDF 273KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Blue Mound State Park
Spectacular view of the countryside from the highest point in southern Wisconsin. Observation towers, wooded campsites, swimming pool with a lift for people with disabilities, picnic areas and hiking, and nature and cross-country ski trails offer year-round recreation. Rustic cabin for people with disabilities. 4350 Mounds Park Rd., Box 98, Blue Mounds 53517-0098. (608) 437-5711. Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Browntown-Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area
Swim, fish, boat on two spring-fed lakes in this day-use recreation area in Green County. Enjoy nature trails and explore a 600-acre wildlife area. Tables, grills and shelters provided. C/o P.O. Box 805, New Glarus 53574. Summer (608) 966-3777. Park map. State map

Brule River State Forest
The Brule River, a premier trout stream, drops 328 feet from its headwaters to the shore of Lake Superior. Enjoy exciting white-water canoeing, kayaking, and fishing as well as camping and wilderness solitude. Hiking and nature trails in the summer offer snowmobiling and 16.5 miles of cross-country ski trails in the winter. 6250 S Ranger Road, Brule 54820-0125. (715) 372-5678. Current conditions. Park map [PDF 251KB]. State map

Brunet Island State Park
Framed by the Chippewa and Fisher rivers, this park is located one mile northwest of Cornell. Camping, swimming, canoeing and fishing opportunities abound. Enjoy the abundant plant and wildlife. Rt. 2, Box 158, Cornell 54732. (715) 239-6888. Park map [PDF 55KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Buckhorn State Park
A 2,500-acre peninsula in the Castle Rock Flowage of the Wisconsin River offers a full range of water-related activities. A paradise for hunters, hikers and nature lovers. Outdoor group camp, 24 cart-in campsites, two-level accessible wildlife blind. W8450 Buckhorn Park Ave., Necedah 54646-2789. (608) 565-2789). Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Capital Springs State Park and Recreation Area
This new state park in Dane County was established during Wisconsin State Parks' 2000 centennial year. Capital Springs is a partnership project between Dane County Parks and Wisconsin State Parks. Although still in the planning process, Capital Springs offers many recreational opportunities including hiking, biking, fishing, wildlife watching, picnicking and camping. 3101 Lake Farm Road, Madison, 53711. (608) 224-3606. State map

Chippewa Flowage
The 15,300-acre Chippewa Flowage is in Sawyer County east of Hayward. First filled in 1924, it is now Wisconsin's third-largest lake, with an irregular, wooded, and generally undeveloped 233-mile shoreline and about 200 undeveloped islands. It is known for its spectacular natural scenery and fishing. Public access points on the flowage are a starting point for a wilderness experience. Camp at one of the primitive island sites. 10220 State Hwy 27, Hayward, WI 54843 (715) 634-2688.

Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area
Situated in an area of unspoiled beauty with kettle lakes and glacial features. The interpretive center sits atop a hill that was once a glacial lake bottom. The tranquil Ice Age Trail traverses through hilly, heavily forested terrain where a multitude of bird life abound. A visitor center generally is open from 8:30 to 4:30 daily; call ahead to verify. Box 13394, County Hwy. M, New Auburn 54757. (715) 967-2800. Park map. State map

Copper Culture State Park [exit DNR]
This 48-acre park features an Indian burial ground from the Copper Culture about 6,000 years ago, the oldest cemetery site in Wisconsin. Locally owned park museum offers a detailed look at Copper Culture life and times. Also enjoy the 15-acre short-grass prairie or fish the Oconto River. Vehicle admission sticker not required. Open through Labor Day 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays or, for groups, by appointment. C/o 3034 Sandalwood Rd., Abrams, WI 54101. (920) 826-7304, ask for Monette. State map

Copper Falls State Park
Canyons, streams and waterfalls to delight photographers, hikers and cross-country skiers; just north of Mellen in Ashland County. Swimming beach, miles of trails. Family campgrounds, plus walk-in and backpack campsites available. Route 1, Box 17AA, Mellen 54546. (715) 274-5123. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Council Grounds State Park
Located along the beautiful Wisconsin River a short distance northwest of Merrill. A campground with modern rest rooms, swimming beach, picnic areas, and a stone and log shelter house await visitors. N1895 Council Grounds Dr., Merrill 54452. (715) 536-8773. Current conditions. Reserve a Campsite. State map

Devil's Lake State Park
An Ice Age unit where 500-foot bluffs flank a 360-acre lake. Swimming, fishing, boating (electric motor only), canoeing, scuba diving, hiking, nature center (by appointment during off-season), year-round naturalist and cross-country skiing. S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo 53913-9299. (608) 356-8301; TDD (608) 356-4274). Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Fischer Creek State Recreation Area
This 123-acre area has nearly a mile of Lake Michigan shoreline, scenic wooded bluffs, grasslands and wetlands. It is managed by Manitowoc County. No camping. C/o 4319 Expo Dr., Manitowoc 54220. (920) 683-4185. State map

Flambeau River State Forest
Two forks of the Flambeau River provide 75 miles of uninterrupted natural beauty and white-water excitement. Rustic camping at 35 sites along the river and two campgrounds. Nearly 90,000 acres of forest, canoe landings, and fishing for muskie, walleye, bass, trout and panfish. ATV and ski trails. W1613 Co. Rd. W, Winter 54896. (715) 332-5271. Forest map [PDF 345KB]. State map

Governor Dodge State Park
5,000 scenic acres of steep hills, bluffs and deep valleys, plus two lakes offering swimming, fishing and boating (electric motors only). Hike through oak-hickory woods, ride horses over rolling hills, picnic near sandstone bluffs. 4175 Hwy. 23, Dodgeville 53533. (608) 935-2315. Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Governor Knowles State Forest
Visit a scenic wilderness area along the St. Croix River in northwestern Wisconsin. Group and family camping. Rustic river and backpack camping by permit. . Enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, cross-county skiing, snowmobiling, horse trails and hunting. Box 367, Grantsburg 54840. (715) 463-2898. Forest map [PDF 372KB]. State map

Governor Nelson State Park
On 10,000-acre Lake Mendota, recreation and nature mingle within sight of the state Capitol. Boating, fishing, picnicking and swimming are favorite activities. Restored prairie and savanna, effigy mounds, boat launch, swimming area, pet swimming area, hiking and ski trails. No camping. 5140 County Hwy. M, Waunakee 53597. (608) 831-3005. Current Conditions. Park map [PDF256KB]. State map

Governor Thompson State Park
This 2,800 acre park is only 8 years old and already has a large picnic area on one of the two inland lakes, a modern boat launch facility on Caldron Falls Flowage of the Peshtigo River, almost 3 miles of roads and 16 miles of hiking trail. The park is developing more use areas including a shelter/pavilion on Woods Lake, a modern campground and a new visitor center. N10008 Paust Lane, Crivitz, WI 54114. (715)757-3979, (715)757-3779. Park map [PDF 681KB]. State map.

Harrington Beach State Park
Peacefulness and serenity draw people. The 636 acres with a mile-long Lake Michigan beach leave room to be alone with nature. Hiking, fishing, picnic areas, nature and cross-country ski trails are available. No camping. 531 Hwy. D, Belgium 53004. (262) 285-3015. Park map [PDF 215KB]. State map

Hartman Creek State Park
This 1,417-acre quiet and friendly natural gem is near the beautiful spring-fed Chain O' Lakes. Year-round camping, Hellestad House log cabin, Whispering Pines day use area on crystal-clear Marl Lake on the upper "chain." N2480 Hartman Creek Road, Waupaca 54981-9727. (715) 258-2372. Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Havenwoods State Forest
Havenwoods is an island of nature within an urban Milwaukee environment. Environmental education programs and walking trails are available for educators, youth groups, families and adults. Environmental Awareness Center. 6141 N. Hopkins, Milwaukee 53209. (414) 527-0232; TDD 414-527-0761. Current conditions. Forest map. State map

Heritage Hill State Park [exit DNR]
Experience "living history" at this 40-acre outdoor museum in Green Bay. The park features 25 structures from Wisconsin's past. Per person admission charged. 2640 S. Webster Avenue, Green Bay 54301. (920) 448-5150. State map

High Cliff State Park
This park of 1,145 acres rests on limestone cliffs overlooking Lake Winnebago. History and geology buffs will want to visit the park to learn about effigy mound builders, lime kiln, quarry operations, camping and the scenic overlook. N7630 State Park Road, Sherwood 54169. (920) 989-1106. Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a Campsite. State map

Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area
Hilly, wooded recreation area in northeastern Dunn County near Menomonie. An outdoor group camp for youth groups, an observation tower, a self-guiding nature trail and hiking/skiing trails are available. 921 Brickyard Road, Menomonie 54751. (715) 232-1242. Park map. State map

Ice Age National Scientific Reserve
Nine places across the state that show what the glaciers did to Wisconsin.

Interstate State Park
A deep gorge called the "Dalles of the St. Croix" is a scenic feature of Wisconsin's oldest state park. As a part of the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve, the Ice Age Interpretive Center features photographs, murals and other information about the great glaciers. Box 703, St. Croix Falls 54024. (715) 483-3747. Current conditions. Park map [PDF 137KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive
This marked 115-mile road route is the scenic connection between the Kettle Moraine State Forest Northern, Pike Lake, Lapham Peak, and Southern Units as well as numerous natural and scenic landmarks, local parks, and historic sites.

Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit
A 29,268-acre gift of the glacier--the rolling, wooded landscape is dotted with serene lakes and offers a unique outdoor recreational experience of endless variety. Henry S. Reuss Ice Age Visitor Center, on State Highway 67, 1/8 mile south of County Highway G, is open seven days a week, (920) 533-8322. Forest Headquarters, N1765 Hwy. G, Campbellsport, WI 53010, is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., (262) 626-2116. Current conditions. Forest map [PDF 272KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
The glacier left 21,000 acres of rolling hills and numerous lakes. Humans contributed beaches and boat launches, trails for horses, off-road (mountain) bikes, snowmobiles, cross-country skiing and hiking, picnic areas and four campgrounds. Cabin for people with disabilities. S91 W39091 Hwy. 59, Eagle 53119. (262) 594-6200. Current conditions. Forest map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Kinnickinnic State Park
The Kinnickinnic, a cold water trout stream, forms a large, sandy delta where it flows into the St. Croix River. This day-use park features river scenery, trails meandering through tall grass prairies and upland forests, a large swim area and boat-in camping. W11983 820th Avenue, River Falls 54022. (715) 425-1129). Park map [PDF 104KB]. State map

Kohler-Andrae State Park
Year-round, this 1,000-acre scenic gem on the shore of Lake Michigan offers a peaceful feeling. Relax in a shady campsite, walk barefoot on two miles of beach, tour the nature center, or stroll along two nature trails. 1020 Beach Park Lane, Sheboygan 53081. (920) 451-4080. Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Lake Kegonsa State Park
Kegonsa means "lake of many fishes" and it is one of southern Wisconsin's most productive fishing holes. The White Oak Nature Trail's effigy mounds are of great interest to many visitors. The woodlands, prairies and wetlands attract campers, hikers and skiers. 2405 Door Creek Road, Stoughton 53589. (608) 873-9695. Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Lake Wissota State Park
Created by Wisconsin-Minnesota Light and Power Company in 1918, the 6,300-acre lake attracts anglers after walleyes, muskies and bass. Scenic trails edge the shoreline and wind through woodland, prairie and marsh. 18127 CTH O, Chippewa Falls 54729. (715) 382-4574. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Lakeshore State Park
This new 22-acre park on the shore of Lake Michigan is in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, adjacent to the Henry Maier Festival Grounds. The park features a marina, fishing access, multi-use trail, with a connection to the Hank Aaron State Trail, and views of Milwaukee's scenic lakefront. 500 N. Harbor Drive, Milwaukee 53202. (414) 274-4281. Park map. State map

Lapham Peak Unit, Kettle Moraine State Forest
Located near Delafield, 1 mile south of I-94, Lapham Peak features a 45-foot observation tower on the highest point in Waukesha County. The glaciated topography also provides excellent hiking and cross-county skiing. Enclosed shelters for all seasons. W329 N846 Cty. C, Delafield 53018. (262) 646-3025. Forest map. State map

Loew Lake Unit, Kettle Moraine State Forest
The Loew Lake Unit is a picturesque valley including the winding east branch of the Oconomowoc River and the 23-acre Loew Lake. It is open to low-impact recreation, including hiking, hunting, and horseback riding (no camping). The Ice Age National Scenic Trail goes through the property on the west side of the Oconomowoc River. C/o 3544 Kettle Moraine Rd., Hartford 53027. (262) 670-3400. State map

Lower Wisconsin State Riverway
A diverse resource with a wide variety of historical and archaeological sites, wildlife, fisheries, and scenic beauty. The riverway contains 79,275 acres, more than 44,000 of them state owned, along 93.2 miles of the Wisconsin River. Camping is allowed on state-owned islands and sandbars except for a 2-mile stretch downstream of Ferry Bluff. C/o DNR Service Center 1500 N. Johns Street, Dodgeville 53533, (608) 935-3368, or Tower Hill State Park, 5808 County C, Spring Green 53588 (608) 588-2116. Riverway map, east [PDF 1.1MB] and west [PDF 1.1MB]. State map

MacKenzie Environmental Education Center and State Game Farm
The MacKenzie Center provides environmental educational opportunities for youth and adults. It has a wildlife exhibit, conservation museum, self-guided nature trails, a picnic area, and facilities for rearing and study of pheasants and other animals. Bbunkhouses for organized groups, but no camping. W7303 County Hwy. CS, Poynette 53955-9690. (608) 635-8110. Park map [PDF 429KB]. State map

Menominee River Natural Resources Area
Some 1,922 acres of this 4,450-acre property are located on the Wisconsin side of the Menominee River, east of Pembine. Primarily limited to foot travel only, the area provides opportunities to view waterfalls and birds, canoe, hunt, fish, and hike. Several one-night undeveloped camping sites are available along the river. P.O. Box 199, Wausaukee, WI 54177. (715) 856-9160.

Merrick State Park
Located along the lazy Mississippi River north of Fountain City. Fishing from or dock your boat at your campsite. River waters are a haven for summer and winter anglers. The marshy back waters are home for egrets, herons, muskrats and otters. Box 127, Fountain City 54629-0127. (608) 687-4936. Current conditions. Park map [PDF 88KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Mill Bluff State Park
Picturesque rock formations dominate the land. Part of the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve, an ideal place for picnicking, swimming, camping and hiking. Scenic views from the top of Mill Bluff. C/o Box 99, Ontario 54651. (608) 337-4775, Memorial Day - Labor Day (608) 427-6692. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Mirror Lake State Park
Just three miles from Wisconsin Dells, sandstone bluffs surround half the lake which offers excellent fishing, swimming and canoeing. Wooded campsites, picnic areas, a boat landing, and biking, hiking and cross-country ski trails. Cabin for people with disabilities. E10320 Fern Dell Road, Baraboo 53913. (608) 254-2333). Park map [PDF 292KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Natural Bridge State Park
Inspect a natural arch of sandstone with a rock shelter used by people when the glacier was melting, 11,000 years ago. On County Highway C, 12 miles west of Devil's Lake in Sauk County. No camping. C/o S5975 Park Road, Baraboo 53913-9299. (608) 356-8301; TDD (608) 356-4281. State map

Nelson Dewey State Park
Take in a panoramic view of the Mississippi River or relax in wooded campsites atop the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi. Visit Stonefield, home of Wisconsin's first governor, Nelson Dewey, and Stonefield Village [exit DNR], a reconstructed 1890 village. Open year round. Box 658, Cassville 53806. (608) 725-5374. Reserve a campsite. State map

New Glarus Woods State Park
Located near the Sugar River Trail, you'll find camping as it was intended, with drive-in or hike-in campsites of quiet solitude. A picnic area and playground. Nature trails lead to wildlife and the beauty of undisturbed woodland. Box 805, W5446 County Trunk Highway NN, New Glarus 53574. (608) 527-2335. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Newport State Park
The wilderness park offers 2,370-acres of forests, 11 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, 30 miles of hiking trails, and backpack camping as quiet alternatives to bustling Door County. Hiking, swimming, backpack camping, bird watching, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are favorite activities. 475 Cty. Rd. NP, Ellison Bay 54210. (920) 854-2500. Park map [PDF 543KB]. Reserve a Campsite. State map

Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest
225,000 acres of beautiful northern Wisconsin forests and lakes offer camping, fishing, swimming, hunting, boating, canoeing, backpacking and winter recreation. Wild and wilderness areas are available for those seeking solitude. 4125 CTH M, Boulder Junction 54512. (715) 385-2727. Forest map [PDF 791KB]. State map

Pattison State Park
One of the state's outstanding scenic features is 165-foot-high Big Manitou Falls, highest in Wisconsin. Hiking trails, nature center, sand beach and interpretive programs entertain and educate visitors 6294 S. State Rd. 35, Superior 54880-8326. (715) 399-3111. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Peninsula State Park
On a peninsula jutting into Green Bay waters, the 3,776 acres of forest include four campgrounds, bike trails, an observation tower, summer theater, a 125-year-old lighthouse and an 18-hole golf course. Visitors explore bays fringed by sand and cobblestone. Islands and ships can be viewed from the bluffs. Box 218, Fish Creek 54212-0218. (920) 868-3258, golf course (920) 854-5791 May-Oct. Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Perrot State Park
The park's 1,270 acres nestle among bluffs where the Trempealeau and Mississippi rivers meet. From the 500-foot river bluffs, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the mighty Mississippi. Camping, hiking, boating, cross-country skiing, and access to the Great River State Trail. Box 407, Trempealeau 54661. (608) 534-6409 Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Peshtigo River State Forest
This forest comprises about 9,200 acres of undeveloped forest along 70 miles of the Peshtigo River in Marinette County. The forest is in the master planning process. A section of the forest is adjacent to the new Governor Thompson State Park. The forest is open to the public with opportunities for canoeing, fishing, boating, hunting, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and hiking. c/o N10008 Paust Lane, Crivitz 54114. (715) 757-3965. Forest map [PDF 536KB]. State map

Pike Lake Unit - Kettle Moraine State Forest
Surprising for its beauty, panoramic views from atop Powder Hill, picnic areas and peaceful campsites, this 678-acre park offers year-round enjoyment. Located in the Kettle Moraine area, the Ice Age Trail passes through. 3544 Kettle Moraine Road, Hartford 53027. (262) 670-3400. Current conditions. Forest map [PDF 468KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Point Beach State Forest
The point juts seven miles into Lake Michigan, and the six-mile beach occasionally yields pieces of 19th century ships that sank here. The sandy shore of Lake Michigan is a fascinating place just to walk, look and indulge in some aimless beachcombing. Interpretive center and indoor group camps. 9400 County Hwy. O, Two Rivers 54241. (920) 794-7480. Current conditions. Forest map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Potawatomi State Park
On a clear day, the view from the observation tower reaches 16 miles across Green Bay to Menomonee, Mich., and Chambers Island, 20 miles to the northeast. The two-mile shoreline is dotted with granite boulders, brought from Canada by the glacier. Family campground and cabin for people with disabilities. 3740 Park Drive, Sturgeon Bay 54235. (920) 746-2890, (920) 746-2891. Current conditions. Park map [PDF 220KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Rib Mountain State Park
This billion-year-old hill is one of the oldest geologic formations on earth. The top of the 60-foot observation tower is 700 feet above the surrounding plain and offers spectacular views.Camping May through October; snowshoeing and downhill skiing [exit DNR] in winter. 4200 Park Rd., Wausau 54401. (715) 842-2522. Current conditions. Park map [PDF 138KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Richard Bong State Recreation Area
A smorgasbord of activities await visitors to this 4,515-acre recreation area in Kenosha County, 9 miles west of I-94 on Hwy. 142. Swim, fish, picnic, camp, ride horses, study nature, cross-country ski, motorcycle and hunt. 26313 Burlington Road, Kansasville 53139. (262) 878-5600. Current conditions. Park map [PDF 101KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Roche-A-Cri State Park
The French name refers to the 300-foot high rock outcropping that is the central feature of this quiet park. Climb the stairway to the top for a panoramic view; picnic areas, hiking trails and 41 wooded campsites, also featured. 1767 Hwy. 13, Friendship 53934-0100. Summer (608) 339-6881, off-season (608) 565-2789. Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a Campsite. State map

Rock Island State Park
Take the ferry to this primitive Lake Michigan island park that LaSalle and Hennepin visited in the Griffon in 1679. The stone buildings were built by a wealthy inventor between 1910 and 1930. C/o Washington Island 54246. (920) 847-2235. Park map [PDF 69KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Rocky Arbor State Park
A 225-acre park located within 1-1/2 miles of Wisconsin Dells. Eighty-nine wooded campsites offer seclusion, while pine trees and sandstone bluffs offer a cool escape to the picnicker or hiker in this summer park. C/o E10320 Fern Dell Road, Baraboo 53913. Summer (608) 254-8001, fall, winter, spring (608) 254-2333. Reserve a campsite. Current Conditions. State map

Straight Lake State Park
This new 2,780-acre park in northwestern Wisconsin has a lake, river, woods, wetlands, and prairie. For now, it's open only to foot traffic. C/o Box 703, St. Croix Falls 54024. (715) 483-3747. Park map.

Tower Hill State Park
Visit the park's restored shot tower and melting house to see exhibits on lead shot making from the 1800s. Just two men, using picks and crow bars, tunneled 120 feet down and 90 feet horizontally through the rock. Challenging bluff trails, panoramic views, camping (first-come, first-served), and canoeing and fishing on the Wisconsin River. Open May through October. 5808 Cty. C, Spring Green 53588. (608) 588-2116). Park map [PDF 98KB]. Hunting area map [PDF, 174KB]. State map

Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area
This area, southwest of Mercer in Iron county, has 60 campsites, accessible by water only, and six public boat landings. The flowage is known for its walleye fishery and also has muskellunge, northern pike, bass, sturgeon, and panfish. It has the highest density of bald eagle, osprey, and loon breeding pairs in Wisconsin. C/o DNR Ranger Station, 3291 State House Circle, Mercer 54547. (715) 476-2240.

Whitefish Dunes State Park
This Door County park offers rugged Lake Michigan shoreline, dense upland forest, shoreline on an interior lake, a winding creek with wetlands, and the highest sand dunes in Wisconsin. Many features for people with disabilities. No camping. 3275 County Highway WD (Clark Lake Road), Sturgeon Bay 54235. (920) 823-2400. Current conditions. Park map. State map

Wildcat Mountain State Park
Canoeing on the winding Kickapoo River and horseback riding for those who bring their own horses are the highlights. An observation point overlooks the Kickapoo Valley and the Village of Ontario. Camping, hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing. Box 99, Ontario 54651. (608) 337-4775. Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a campsite. State map

Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area
Described as "almost Canada," this flowage in Oneida County has a wild flavor. The area has more than 17,000 acres, 73 miles of shoreline, 106 islands, and seven boat landings. Rustic campsites around the shoreline and on the islands offer scenery and solitude. There are abundant walleye and panfish; northern pike, muskellunge, and bass; hunting and hiking opportunities; deer, bear, ruffed grouse, ducks, loons, and wolves. C/o 8770 Hwy J, Woodruff 54568, (715) 356-5211. Lake map. State map

Willow River State Park
The park features a beautiful waterfall you must hike in to see, plus the deep canyon above Willow Falls may be viewed from overlooks. Other highlights include family camping, group camping, a swimming beach, a nature center, a lake with no motorized boat traffic, 13 miles of hiking trails, trout streams, and good wildlife viewing. Winter activities include ice fishing, hiking, snow shoeing, sledding, and cross-country skiing trails for all abilities. 1034 Cty. Hwy. A, Hudson 54016. (715) 386-5931. Current conditions. Park map. Reserve a Campsite. State map

Wyalusing State Park
The Wisconsin Ridge Campground overlooks the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers 500 feet below. Scarlet tanagers and wild turkeys are among the more than 100 bird species spotted on one-day field trips. 13342 Cty. Hwy. C, Bagley 53801. (608) 996-2261. Park map [PDF 558KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

Yellowstone Lake State Park
One of the few lakes in the driftless area, 450-acre Yellowstone Lake is popular for ice fishing and other water sports. The park adjoins the Yellowstone Lake State Wildlife Area. 8495 Lake Road, Blanchardville 53516. (608) 523-4427. Current conditions. Park map [PDF 157KB]. Reserve a campsite. State map

For more information, ask Wisconsin State Parks, (608) 266-2181.