Favorite State Parks in Wisconsin
Wisconsin's state parks offer a great display of natural beauty, from towering bluffs and serene lakes to cascading waterfalls and dense forests. Based on visitor reviews, expert recommendations, and unique features, here are five standout state parks in Wisconsin and not too far from Terrace 167!
As Wisconsin's most visited state park, Devil’s Lake boasts 500-foot quartzite bluffs surrounding a pristine lake. Visitors can enjoy over 29 miles of hiking trails, including the renowned East Bluff Trail, which offers panoramic views. The park also features two large sandy beaches, rock formations like Balanced Rock and Devil's Doorway, and opportunities for swimming, boating, and rock climbing. Its proximity to the Wisconsin Dells makes it a popular destination year-round.
Located in Door County, Peninsula State Park is often referred to as "Wisconsin’s most complete park." It offers a mix of natural beauty and recreational activities, including hiking and biking trails, an 18-hole golf course, and the historic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. The park's shoreline along Green Bay provides stunning views, especially from the Eagle Tower, a 60-foot observation tower offering panoramic vistas.
Nestled in northern Wisconsin, Copper Falls State Park is renowned for its deep gorges, ancient lava flows, and cascading waterfalls. The Doughboy’s Nature Trail offers a scenic 1.7-mile loop along the Bad River, showcasing the park's geological wonders. Visitors can also explore log buildings constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, adding historical charm to the park's natural beauty.
Perched atop 500-foot bluffs at the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers, Wyalusing State Park offers breathtaking views and rich history. The park features Native American burial mounds, diverse hiking trails, and opportunities for canoeing and birdwatching. Its unique combination of cultural significance and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination.
Just minutes from the bustling Wisconsin Dells, Mirror Lake State Park provides a tranquil escape with its calm, no-wake lake surrounded by sandstone cliffs. The park offers 28.4 miles of hiking trails, 17.4 miles of cross-country skiing trails, and a variety of water activities like kayaking and canoeing. Its serene environment and accessibility make it a favorite for both relaxation and adventure.
With trails that follow the Lake Michigan shoreline or forested routes like the one around Quarry Lake, there is a variety of terrain.
7. Big Bay State Park – La Pointe
I’ve only been to Madeline Island once and the trip was so stunning that after one visit, Big Bay State Park is my second favorite. I was there in the fall during the colorful season of changing leaves and crisp air.
Walk the trails along the peninsula of the park and be fascinated with the brilliant blue of the Lake Superior waves. At the northern end of the park, the neighboring Big Bay Town Park, with a boardwalk and towering trees is breathtaking.
8. Willow River State Park – Hudson
From Stephens' Falls at Governor Dodge State Park to Big and Little Manitou Falls at Pattison State Park, state parks that feature waterfalls.
From multiple vantage points above and the scenic bridge below, these cascading falls can be seen in their entirety and can be accessed from the base to get close-up views of their power and beauty. The Burkhaldt Trail, which winds through the forest along the river’s shore to one of the park’s overlooks and then down a steep, winding staircase to the base of the falls is stunning.
9. High Cliff State Park – Sherwood
Head to this gorgeous State Park on Lake Winnebago for a day of hiking, swimming and picnicking. There are incredible rock formations to explore and a wooden tower to climb, as well as Native American effigy mounds and the remains of a limestone kiln that highlight the cultural significance of the area.
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