Imagine opening the flap of your tent to reveal a pretty view, complete with rolling hills and winding rivers. Or step out of the cozy camper van and set up camp along the breathtaking bluffs of Wyalusing. Even stargazing overlooking the historic Rock Island Lighthouse.
Whether you camp with friends, RV with the whole family, backpack, or live the van life, check out these six state parks. Enjoy wooded campsites, sandy beaches, and pretty waterfront scenery that can only be found in Wisconsin.
Wyalusing-Bagley State Park
Camp 500 feet above the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers in one of Wisconsin’s oldest state parks. Wyalusing State Park has two campgrounds: Wisconsin Ridge and Homestead. To enjoy the best views, pitch your tent on a bluff and admire your surroundings for miles.
There is no shortage of things to do during camp. Visit the park’s numerous Native American burial mounds or take a kayaking trail. A boat ramp provides access to the mighty Mississippi.
You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world when you stay at Wyalusing.
Harrington Beach State Park – Belgium
Just two hours north of Chicago, located right on the shores of Lake Michigan, Harrington Beach State Park covers 702 acres, including a mile-long sandy beach and a scenic 25-acre quarry lake.
Hike through the 80-acre lowland cedar forest to see plenty of wildlife and color. If fishing is your thing, Quarry Lake and Puckett’s Pond provide fishing opportunities for trout, smallmouth bass and panfish.
If you enjoy sunbathing on the beach or admiring a pretty sunrise over the waves, everyone in your group will enjoy their stay at Harrington Beach.
Big Bay State Park – Madeline Island
Located near a secluded mile-long beach, this campground is a pretty place to camp. Big Bay State Park, located on a bay on the shores of Lake Superior on Madeline Island, is a must-stop to see the state’s most breathtakingly pristine wilderness. Wake up to the sound of the waves outside your tent or end the day with a spectacular sunset on the beach.
A scenic ferry ride will take you from Bayfield to Madeline Island. There is no bridge and the ferry adds even more adventure.
Mirror Lake State Park – Baraboo
Near the popular Wisconsin Dells is a picturesque lake surrounded by sandstone bluffs. The campsites are wooded for privacy, but are just steps from the water.
Sail by boat, kayak or kayak on the deep blue lake and see antique rock formations created by early civilizations.
Mirror Lake State Park’s main attraction, the lake, is completely inactive. The no wake zone combined with the extensive bluffs that protect the lake from the wind give the lake a mirror-like appearance and make for straightforward paddling. You will feel the peace of nature without the sounds of roaring boat engines.
Rock Island State Park – Washington Island
Even the trip to Rock Island State Park is amazing. Take a ferry with your crew from the Door County Peninsula to Washington Island, then another ferry to Rock Island. You’ll never forget the awe-inspiring views as you glide across Lake Michigan.
Rock Island itself is full of stone buildings built by a wealthy inventor who once owned the island. Vehicles are not allowed on the island, allowing you to immerse yourself in the fresh air. Camp along Green Bay Island or Lake Michigan and enjoy the water all you want. Who wouldn’t want to pitch a tent on an island?
Peninsula State Park – Fish Creek
Just off Rock Island (and before the ferry crossing) is another iconic Wisconsin oasis: Peninsula State Park. Hike or bike along Green Bay’s 13 miles of coastline, explore the historic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, kayak the steep cliffs, and take a refreshing swim at Nicolet Beach.
As for views, enjoy amazing sunrises and sunsets from campsites throughout the peninsula. For the greatest view of the park, head to the top of the newly reconstructed Eagle Tower. The tower’s 250-foot wheelchair-accessible ramp creates a scenic loop through the beech forest, and the summit offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Discover more breathtaking beauty by visiting the Wonders of Wisconsin!
