The 15 Best State Parks In Wisconsin To Visit ASAP

Wisconsin, with its picturesque landscapes and sprawling natural beauty, is home to some of the most incredible state parks in the United States. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the great outdoors, Wisconsin’s state parks offer something for everyone. Here is a list of the 15 best state parks in Wisconsin that you should consider visiting as soon as possible:
1. Devil’s Lake State Park – Nestled in Baraboo, this park is famous for its 500-foot quartzite bluffs overlooking a 360-acre lake. Ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and swimming.
2. Peninsula State Park – Located on Door County Peninsula, this park offers over 3,776 acres of stunning terrain with campgrounds, a historic lighthouse, and scenic bike trails.
3. Copper Falls State Park – Found in Mellen, it’s well-known for breathtaking waterfalls, deep gorges, and miles of hiking trails that include ADA-accessible options.
4. Kohler-Andrae State Park – Situated along the shores near Sheboygan, the park presents unique dune landscapes, nature trails, and a tranquil beachfront.
5. Mirror Lake State Park – Close to Wisconsin Dells, this park is perfect for peaceful canoeing or kayaking experiences on its namesake lake that reflects the surrounding forested bluffs.
6. Amnicon Falls State Park – Near Superior’s shores, the park features a series of delightful waterfalls and rapids along the Amnicon River noted for their accessibility and photogenic backdrops.
7. Governor Dodge State Park – This park is located in Wisconsin’s Driftless Area and offers diverse recreational activities such as horseback riding trails and two lakes for fishing.
8. Interstate State Park – As Wisconsin’s oldest state park, it sits on the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway providing unique glacial potholes and rock climbing opportunities.
9. Wyalusing State Park – Where the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers meet; this park has Native American burial mounds, bird watching opportunities, and expansive views from bluffs over 500 feet high.
10. Harrington Beach State Park – Just off Lake Michigan’s shore by Belgium offering a mile-long sandy beach, an observatory for stargazing events, and meandering quarry lake trails.
11. Kettle Moraine State Forest – Divided into Southern & Northern units featuring distinct glacial formations with numerous trails including the famous Ice Age Trail segment.
12. High Cliff State Park – Located on Lake Winnebago’s northeastern shore showcasing large limestone cliffs with a lookout tower providing panoramic views of Wisconsin’s largest lake.
13. Wildcat Mountain State Park – Overlooking the Kickapoo River Valley where equestrian trails weave through intricately placed observation points highlighting southeastern Wisconsin’s rugged topography.
14. Rock Island State Park – A remote island accessible only by ferry from Washington Island offering secluded hiking paths and pristine beaches in addition to historical sites like Pottawatomie Lighthouse.
15. Blue Mound State Park – The highest point in Southern Wisconsin with two observation towers that allow visitors to see far across the rolling landscape and even glimpse neighboring states on clear days.
Each of these captivating state parks encapsulates its unique charm offering an unforgettable experience to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From breath-stealing views atop bluffs to serene walks beside graceful waterfalls—Wisconsin’s natural treasures await your exploration.