Top Wisconsin State Parks for Your Next Vacation
There are almost 100 state parks in Wisconsin. According to the Wisconsin Department of State Parks and Recreation over 14 million visits per year are recorded in these parks. There are so many amenities statewide that people come from everywhere to enjoy these parks.
A new promotion has been started to help get kids out of the house and into enjoying the great outdoors. It's called "More Green Time, Less Screen Time". The promotion is designed to help kids find out how much fun it is to be outside. What better way to encourage outdoor activity than by visiting a state park?
Fees are charged in Wisconsin State Parks. These are usually a few dollars per park or trail. For those who visit state parks frequently an annual admission sticker may be a money-saving option. It provides free admission for a year.
The admission stickers are $35 for a nonresident or $25 for a state resident.
The following is a list of some of the best state parks in Wisconsin. Use it to begin planning your vacation or getaway. There are some great parks with amenities to help your family get "More Green Time, Less Screen Time".
1. Big Bay State Park
141 S. 3rd St
Bayfield WI 54814
Phone (715) 747-6425
Nestled at the north end of the state is the 2,500 acre Big Bay State Park. This state park is on the banks of Lake Superior. The summer months are the most popular for swimming. Other activities and amenities offered here include the beach, fishing, bird and wildlife watching, picnicking and nature programs. Skiing is available when in season. You can get to Big Bay State Park by ferry or by using one of the boat launches in Bayfield or on Madeline Island.
2. Interstate State Park
State Highway 35
St. Croix Falls, WI 54024
Phone: (715) 483-3747
If you like outdoors activities this park probably has it. There are 2 campgrounds waiting to greet visitors and several picnic areas. At Lake O' the Dalles there is a swimming beach plus a boathouse. There are hiking opportunities and don't forget to keep your camera ready. You never know what photo opportunities will happen when you list expect them.
3. Heritage Hill State Park
2640 South Webster Ave.
Green Bay, Wisconsin 54301
Phone: (920) 448-5150
Toll-Free 800-721-5150
Each area of the park has a historic building. This is where history comes alive. Heritage Hill State Park educates the public as to early settler life in Wisconsin. There are educational and interpretive programs. The historic buildings demonstrate the fur trade, fort life, the growing community and ethnic agriculture. Both young and old will enjoy visiting. Contact the park for an event schedule or demonstration times.
4. Governor Nelson State Park
5140 Co Hwy M
Waunakee, WI 53597
Phone: (608) 831-3005
If you like water activities you'll like this state park. Governor Nelson State Park has a sandy beach and over 400 acres of natural beauty overlooking Lake Mendota. Pets on an 8 foot leash are welcome here. There are fishing cleaning stations and a boat launch plus an accessible playground and picnic areas.
5. Kettle Moraine State Forest (Southern Unit)
S91 W39091 Highway 59
Eagle, Wisconsin 53119
Phone (262) 594-6200
This beautiful state park features glacial hills, prairie restoration sites and forests. The Ottawa Lake Visitor Center is open all year. Visitors will enjoy picnicking, hiking, natural views, wildlife and bird viewing and natural photograph opportunities.
Are you ready to visit a Wisconsin State Park and start enjoying the great outdoors all over again? This list is only a few of the many parks that are offered.
