(click the sidebar icon to toggle layers on/off)
State Parks
- Amnicon Falls State Park – Wisconsin is known for its beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails. The park features the mesmerizing Amnicon Falls, where the Amnicon River cascades over rocks. Visitors can explore the forest trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy camping and fishing along the river.
- Aztalan State Park – located in southeastern Wisconsin, preserves an ancient Native American village and ceremonial complex. Visitors can explore the remains of earthen mounds, stockades, and a central plaza. The park offers hiking, picnicking, and educational signs about the area’s indigenous history.
- Belmont Mound State Park – in southwestern Wisconsin is named after a cone-shaped hill that dates back 400 million years. Visitors can hike to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The park also provides picnic areas, a playground, and a small campground.
- Big Bay State Park – offers a pristine experience of the Apostle Islands region in Wisconsin. Visitors can enjoy a sandy beach, hike scenic trails with lake views, camp, and learn about local wildlife at the nature center.
- Big Foot Beach State Park – along the shores of Geneva Lake in Wisconsin, offers swimming, sunbathing, and sandcastle building on its sandy beach. The park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, a playground, and a boat launch for fishing, boating, and kayaking.
- Blue Mound State Park – in Wisconsin’s Driftless Area showcases the state’s unique topography. Visitors can hike to the top of Blue Mound for panoramic views, explore oak savannas and prairies, and enjoy camping, picnicking, and swimming in the park’s pool.
- Brunet Island State Park – located in Wisconsin, is situated on an island in the Chippewa River. The park offers opportunities for camping, picnicking, fishing, and boating. It is known for its scenic beauty, with lush forests, wetlands, and river views. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, observe wildlife, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this island getaway.
- Buckhorn State Park – a popular destination in central Wisconsin, known for its extensive water-based recreational activities. The park is located on a peninsula along Castle Rock Lake, providing opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. It also offers camping facilities, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Buckhorn State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering stunning views of the lake and abundant wildlife.
- Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area – situated in southern Wisconsin, offers a tranquil setting for outdoor recreation. The park features a 36-acre lake where visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming. Picnic areas, hiking trails, and a campground are available for visitors to relax and immerse themselves in nature. Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area is known for its diverse bird species, making it a favorite spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Campbellsport Drumlins State Park – located in eastern Wisconsin, is named after the unique drumlin formations found in the area. The park offers hiking trails that wind through rolling hills, forests, and open fields, showcasing the region’s geological features. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and observing the local flora and fauna. Campbellsport Drumlins State Park provides a peaceful retreat and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the drumlin landscape.
- Capital Springs State Recreation Area – situated near Madison, Wisconsin’s capital, offers a mix of natural beauty and recreational activities. The park encompasses wetlands, woodlands, and prairies, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking and biking trails, go fishing in the lakes, or enjoy a picnic in the scenic surroundings. Capital Springs State Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to escape the urban bustle and connect with nature.
- Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area – located in northern Wisconsin, is a designated National Ice Age Scientific Reserve. The park preserves the glacial landscape shaped by the last Ice Age, featuring rolling hills, kettle lakes, and ancient moraines. Visitors can hike on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, which passes through the park, offering stunning views of the moraine formations. Fishing, boating, and camping opportunities are also available. Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area is a haven for geology enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
- Copper Culture State Park – situated in northeastern Wisconsin, is named after its archaeological significance. The park contains an ancient Native American burial ground from the Copper Culture era, dating back thousands of years. Visitors can explore the interpretive trails that provide information about the area’s indigenous history. The park also offers picnicking and wildlife viewing opportunities, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding forested landscape.
- Copper Falls State Park – located in northern Wisconsin, is known for its stunning waterfalls and scenic beauty. The park features the spectacular Copper Falls and Brownstone Falls, where the Bad River flows through rugged gorges and cascades over ancient volcanic rocks. Visitors can hike along the park’s trails, which lead to scenic overlooks and viewpoints of the waterfalls. The park also offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing and swimming in the Bad River. Copper Falls State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and waterfall enthusiasts.
- Council Grounds State Park – located in central Wisconsin, is a beautiful park known for its scenic landscapes and cultural significance. The park is situated along the Wisconsin River and offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails. It also features an amphitheater that hosts cultural events and gatherings, showcasing the park’s historical and cultural heritage.
- Cross Plains State Park – situated in southwestern Wisconsin, is a small but charming park with rolling hills and scenic vistas. It offers hiking trails that wind through prairies and woodlands, providing opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching. The park is known for its wildflower displays during the spring and summer months, adding bursts of color to the landscape.
- Devil’s Lake State Park – located in south-central Wisconsin, is one of the most popular and iconic parks in the state. The park is characterized by its stunning 360-acre lake, surrounded by towering quartzite bluffs and lush forests. Devil’s Lake offers a wide range of recreational activities, including swimming, boating, rock climbing, hiking, and camping. It attracts outdoor enthusiasts from near and far, seeking to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty and adventure opportunities.
- Fischer Creek State Recreation Area – situated along the shores of Lake Michigan in eastern Wisconsin, is a scenic coastal park. It offers a sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing, as well as opportunities for fishing, hiking, and picnicking. The park provides a peaceful atmosphere and scenic views of the lake, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.
- Governor Dodge State Park – located in southwestern Wisconsin, is a vast and diverse park known for its rugged landscapes and recreational opportunities. The park features two lakes, waterfalls, and stunning rock formations. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, boating, hiking, and mountain biking. Governor Dodge State Park offers a multitude of trails, scenic overlooks, and abundant wildlife, providing a true outdoor paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- Governor Nelson State Park – situated along the northern shore of Lake Mendota in southern Wisconsin, offers a tranquil retreat with beautiful lake views. The park provides hiking and nature trails, picnic areas, and a sandy beach for swimming. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking on the lake. Governor Nelson State Park is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful escape close to the city of Madison.
- Governor Thompson State Park – located in northeastern Wisconsin, is a scenic park known for its forests, wetlands, and shoreline along the Caldron Falls Reservoir. The park offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails that wind through the diverse landscape. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Governor Thompson State Park provides a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
- Harrington Beach State Park – situated on the shores of Lake Michigan in southeastern Wisconsin, is a popular destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The park features a mile-long sandy beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It also offers hiking trails that wind through forests, dunes, and along the lakefront, showcasing the park’s diverse ecosystems. Harrington Beach State Park is known for its picturesque landscapes, birdwatching opportunities, and stunning sunsets over the lake.
- Hartman Creek State Park – located in central Wisconsin, is a peaceful and scenic park encompassing the Chain O’Lakes. The park offers camping facilities, hiking and biking trails, and opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can explore the park’s woodlands, wetlands, and spring-fed lakes, providing a serene setting for outdoor activities and nature appreciation.
- Heritage Hill State Historical Park – located in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is a living history museum that showcases the state’s rich heritage. The park features over 30 historic structures from the 17th to the early 20th century, including log cabins, a schoolhouse, a church, and a blacksmith shop. Visitors can explore the buildings, participate in interactive exhibits and demonstrations, and learn about Wisconsin’s history and culture. Heritage Hill State Historical Park offers a unique and immersive experience that transports visitors back in time.
- High Cliff State Park – situated along the eastern shore of Lake Winnebago in northeastern Wisconsin, is known for its scenic beauty and geological features. The park offers stunning views of the lake and towering limestone cliffs. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnicking, and camping amidst the park’s forests and prairies. High Cliff State Park also features an observation tower, a marina, and a beach for swimming and boating, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
- Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area – located in northwestern Wisconsin, is a tranquil park known for its rolling hills and diverse wildlife. The park offers hiking trails that wind through woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, and wildlife observation, with opportunities to spot deer, birds, and other animals. Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- Holzhueter Farm Conservation Park – situated in southeastern Wisconsin, is a unique park that showcases early Wisconsin farm life. The park features a restored 1905 farmhouse and outbuildings, providing a glimpse into rural agricultural practices of the past. Visitors can explore the farm and learn about traditional farming methods and the history of the area. Holzhueter Farm Conservation Park offers a fascinating educational experience and a connection to Wisconsin’s agricultural heritage.
- Interstate State Park – located on the border of Wisconsin and Minnesota, is a geologically significant park known for its stunning glacial formations. The park features the Dalles of the St. Croix River, where the river has carved deep potholes and dramatic rock formations. Visitors can hike along the trails, explore the glacial potholes, and enjoy scenic views of the river. Interstate State Park also offers camping, fishing, and boating opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation and geological exploration.
- Kinnickinnic State Park – situated in western Wisconsin, is a picturesque park that follows the Kinnickinnic River. The park offers hiking trails that wind through forests, prairies, and along the river, providing opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, fishing, and canoeing on the river. Kinnickinnic State Park is known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty, offering a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Kohler-Andrae State Park – located along the shores of Lake Michigan in southeastern Wisconsin, is a popular destination for beachgoers and nature lovers. The park features sandy beaches, dunes, and a variety of habitats, including forests and wetlands. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, as well as hiking and nature trails. Kohler-Andrae State Park is known for its beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
- Lake Wissota State Park – located in western Wisconsin, is a scenic park that surrounds Lake Wissota. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, boating, fishing, and swimming. Hiking and nature trails wind through the park’s woodlands, providing opportunities to observe wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Lake Wissota State Park is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts and nature enthusiasts alike.
- Lakeshore State Park – situated in downtown Milwaukee, is a unique urban park that offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. The park features walking and biking paths, providing opportunities for recreational activities and enjoying the scenic surroundings. Visitors can take in the sights and sounds of the lake, spot wildlife, and relax in the park’s green spaces. Lakeshore State Park is a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city, offering a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors.
- Lizard Mound State Park – located in southern Wisconsin, is a historical and archaeological park that preserves ancient effigy mounds shaped like lizards. The park provides interpretive signs and trails that guide visitors through the mounds, offering insights into the region’s indigenous history. Lizard Mound State Park is an important cultural site and a testament to the rich Native American heritage of Wisconsin.
- Menominee River State Park and Recreation Area – situated on the border of Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, offers a scenic natural setting along the Menominee River. The park features beautiful forests, waterfalls, and rugged rock formations. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, canoeing, and camping amidst the park’s picturesque landscapes. Menominee River State Park and Recreation Area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities for exploration and adventure.
- Merrick State Park – located in southwestern Wisconsin, is a serene park that overlooks the Mississippi River. The park offers camping facilities, picnicking areas, and hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy fishing and boating on the river, with opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. Merrick State Park is known for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic river views, and abundant wildlife, making it a popular spot for relaxation and outdoor recreation.
- Mill Bluff State Park – situated in central Wisconsin, is named after its unique sandstone bluffs that rise abruptly from the surrounding landscape. The park offers hiking trails that lead to the top of the bluffs, providing panoramic views of the area. Visitors can explore the park’s forests, prairies, and wetlands, observing the diverse flora and fauna. Mill Bluff State Park is a scenic destination, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and nature appreciation.
- Mirror Lake State Park – located in central Wisconsin, is a picturesque park known for its tranquil lake surrounded by wooded hills. The park offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing in the clear waters of Mirror Lake. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and biking trails that wind through the park’s forests and offer scenic viewpoints. Mirror Lake State Park is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and provides a peaceful setting for nature enthusiasts.
- Natural Bridge State Park – situated in southwestern Wisconsin, is home to a unique natural formation—a sandstone arch that serves as a bridge across a small creek. Visitors can hike the park’s trails and witness the natural wonder of the bridge. The park also features scenic picnic areas and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Natural Bridge State Park offers a quiet retreat where visitors can appreciate the beauty of nature.
- Nelson Dewey State Park – located in southwestern Wisconsin, is named after Wisconsin’s first governor, Nelson Dewey. The park is situated on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, providing panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Visitors can explore hiking trails, have picnics, and enjoy the park’s peaceful atmosphere. Nelson Dewey State Park is a historic site and a scenic destination, offering a glimpse into Wisconsin’s past and showcasing the beauty of the Mississippi River.
- New Glarus Woods State Park – situated in southern Wisconsin, is a lovely park known for its peaceful woodlands and rolling hills. The park offers hiking trails that wind through the forested areas, providing opportunities for nature walks and wildlife observation. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and birdwatching in the serene surroundings. New Glarus Woods State Park is a hidden gem, offering a quiet escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
- Newport State Park – located in northeastern Wisconsin, is known for its pristine and undeveloped landscapes. The park encompasses forests, wetlands, and 11 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy picnicking, and observe the park’s diverse plant and animal species. Newport State Park is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, making it an ideal spot for stargazing and enjoying the wonders of the night sky.
- Pattison State Park – situated in northern Wisconsin, is home to the state’s highest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls. The park offers scenic beauty with its dense forests, pristine lakes, and the roaring waterfalls. Visitors can hike along the park’s trails, fish in the lakes, and enjoy picnicking amidst the natural surroundings. Pattison State Park provides a breathtaking experience and opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
- Peninsula State Park – located in Door County, Wisconsin, is a popular destination known for its stunning views of Green Bay. The park features a mix of forests, rolling hills, and limestone cliffs. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, boating, and camping. Peninsula State Park offers picturesque vistas, sandy beaches, and a variety of amenities, making it a beloved spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
- Perrot State Park – located in western Wisconsin along the Mississippi River, is a scenic park known for its rugged bluffs, river views, and diverse wildlife. The park offers hiking and biking trails that wind through forests and along the river, providing opportunities for nature exploration and birdwatching. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and camping in the park, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
- Potawatomi State Park – situated in northeastern Wisconsin, offers a picturesque setting along the shores of Sturgeon Bay. The park features a mix of forests, meadows, and shoreline, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Visitors can enjoy swimming and boating in the bay, as well as camping in the park. Potawatomi State Park is a serene destination where visitors can appreciate the beauty of Door County’s landscapes.
- Rib Mountain State Park – located in central Wisconsin near Wausau, is known for its prominent rock formation, Rib Mountain. The park offers hiking and nature trails that lead to the summit, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Rib Mountain State Park is a popular recreational spot and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Richard Bong State Recreation Area – situated in southeastern Wisconsin, is a diverse park that offers a range of outdoor activities. The park features forests, wetlands, and open meadows, providing opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and hunting. It also offers camping facilities and winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Richard Bong State Recreation Area is named after Major Richard I. Bong, a World War II flying ace, and offers a peaceful natural setting for visitors to enjoy.
- Roche-a-Cri State Park – located in central Wisconsin, is known for its prominent rock outcroppings and petroglyphs. The park offers hiking trails that lead to the top of Roche-a-Cri Mound, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can also explore the petroglyph site, which features ancient rock carvings. Roche-a-Cri State Park is a place of cultural and geological significance, offering a unique and educational experience for visitors.
- Rock Island State Park – situated off the tip of Door County in Lake Michigan, is a remote and scenic park that provides a peaceful retreat. The park is accessible only by boat and offers pristine beaches, rocky shores, and historic structures. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, visit the Pottawatomie Lighthouse, and enjoy swimming and picnicking. Rock Island State Park is a true escape from the mainland, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and the rich history of the area.
- Rocky Arbor State Park – located in central Wisconsin, is a small but charming park known for its sandstone rock formations and lush vegetation. The park offers hiking trails that wind through the forested areas and provide opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation. Visitors can enjoy picnicking and camping amidst the park’s peaceful surroundings. Rocky Arbor State Park is a hidden gem, offering a tranquil escape and natural beauty.
- Straight Lake State Park – located in northwestern Wisconsin, is a scenic park that surrounds Straight Lake, one of the cleanest lakes in the state. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a sandy beach for swimming. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in and around the lake. Straight Lake State Park is known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural serenity, providing a perfect spot for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
- Tower Hill State Park – situated in southwestern Wisconsin, is home to a historic site—the reconstructed Nelson Dewey State Park, located in southwestern Wisconsin, offers a scenic natural setting along the Mississippi River. The park features beautiful forests, waterfalls, and rugged rock formations. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, canoeing, and camping amidst the park’s picturesque landscapes. Menominee River State Park and Recreation Area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities for exploration and adventure.
- Willow River State Park – located in western Wisconsin, is known for its beautiful Willow Falls—a picturesque waterfall that cascades into the Willow River. The park offers hiking trails that wind through woodlands, offering opportunities for nature walks and wildlife observation. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, fishing, and canoeing in the Willow River. Willow River State Park provides a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature.
- Wyalusing State Park – situated in southwestern Wisconsin, is a stunning park that offers breathtaking views of the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers. The park features towering bluffs, deep valleys, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore hiking trails, camp in scenic locations, and enjoy picnicking with panoramic river vistas. Wyalusing State Park is a popular destination for its natural beauty and offers a serene environment for outdoor activities.
- Yellowstone Lake State Park – located in southern Wisconsin, surrounds the picturesque Yellowstone Lake—a 455-acre lake known for its fishing and boating opportunities. The park offers hiking and biking trails that wind through woodlands and prairies, providing opportunities for nature exploration and birdwatching. Visitors can enjoy swimming, canoeing, and kayaking on the lake, as well as camping in designated areas. Yellowstone Lake State Park is a tranquil retreat, offering a variety of recreational activities in a peaceful natural setting.
National Parks
State & National Forests
■ Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
National Natural Landmarks
- Abraham’s Woods: A remnant of regional climax maple-basswood forest. 42°40’58″N 89°29’2″W
- Avoca River-Bottom Prairie: The largest intact prairie in Wisconsin. 43°12’3″N 90°18’17″W
- Baraboo Range: An example of an exhumed mountain range. 43°25’30″N 89°39’20″W
- Bose Lake Hemlock Hardwoods: The best virgin stand of hemlock in Wisconsin. Part of Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. 45°55’56″N 88°58’19″W
- Cave of the Mounds: Cave richly decorated with cave formations of most known varieties. 43°1’5″N 89°48’58″W
- Cedarburg Bog: The largest and most outstanding bog in southeastern Wisconsin. 43°23’14″N 88°0’27″W
- Chippewa River Bottoms: The largest single stand of bottomland hardwood forest along the once widespread post-glacial forest.
- Chiwaukee Prairie: The best remaining wet prairie in Wisconsin along the shore of Lake Michigan. 42°33’18″N 88°49’0″W
- Finnerud Forest Scientific Area: An excellent representative of the northern coniferous forest complex. 45°51’29″N 89°44’53″W
- Flambeau River Hemlock-Harwood Forest: The best and largest remnant of old-growth conifer-hardwood forest in Wisconsin. 45°44’54″N 90°45’51″W
- Kakagon Sloughs: One of the finest marsh complexes on the upper Great Lakes. 46°39’44″N 90°44’28″W
- Kickapoo River Natural Area: The largest undisturbed concentration of exposed seeping sandstone in Wisconsin. Flora and river meanderings typical of the Driftless Area 43°53’53″N 90°27’27″W
- Moquah Barrens Research Natural Area: Representative of the jack pine-scrub oak barrens (savannas) of the glacial outwash area. Found in the Chequamegon National Forest of northwestern Wisconsin. 46°37’35″N 91°15’0″W
- Point Beach Ridges: Alternating ridges and swales formed by previous water levels of Lake Michigan. 44°12’49″N 87°30’55″W
- The Ridges Sanctuary: A series of sand ridges and swales with associated boreal forest and bog vegetation. 45°4’22″N 87°7’7″W
- Spruce Lake Bog: A superb, unspoiled example of a northern bog. 43°40’14″N 88°12’4″W
- Summerton Bog: An undisturbed and floristically diverse area providing habitat for many rare plant and animal species. 43°45’3″N 89°31’23″W
- Wyalusing Hardwood Forest: Contains several rare plant species and abundant wildlife, including some endangered species. 42°58’47″N 91°6’31″W