15 Best Wisconsin State Parks and Natural Areas to Visit with Kids
- Jess Barrera
- 3 days ago
- 9 min read
Exploring Wisconsin’s state parks as a family has become one of our favorite ways to spend weekends and summer breaks!
With 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams, roughly 15,000 lakes, there’s no shortage of trails, beaches, and hidden gems to discover! Best of all, most parks are within a few hours’ drive, making them perfect for day trips or weekend getaways with kids.
In this guide, we’ve included:
Kid-friendly highlights for each park, so you know what adventures your little explorers will love.
Gear tips, including what to bring for hiking, swimming, and creek exploring.
An interactive map showing all 15 parks and regional loops, so you can plan your trip efficiently!
Here's a roundup of our family’s favorite Wisconsin state parks and natural areas, plus some must-have gear that makes exploring with kids easier and more fun!
1. Devil’s Lake State Park – Beaches and Easy Hikes
Devil’s Lake is Wisconsin’s most visited state park, and for good reason. With stunning quartzite bluffs, sandy beaches, and plenty of picnic areas, there’s something for everyone!
Kid-friendly highlights:
Pro Tip: Arrive early during summer—parking lots fill fast!
What to bring:
A sunshade tent to set up on the beach or grassy areas.
Water shoes for rocky shorelines.
A collapsible wagon to carry towels, snacks, and gear from the car.
2. Parfrey’s Glen – A Hidden Adventure
Just down the road from Devil’s Lake, Parfrey’s Glen is Wisconsin’s first state natural area and feels like stepping into a storybook. A cool, shaded gorge with moss-covered rocks, babbling streams, and winding trails makes this a magical spot for kids to explore!
Kid-friendly highlights:
Shallow creeks to splash in (perfect for kids who love water play).
Short hiking trails manageable for little legs.
Unique rock formations that spark imagination.
Moss-covered rock walls that make the hike feel magical.
A shaded gorge that keeps the adventure cool even on hot days.
Pro Tip: Wear water shoes and plan to get wet—kids won’t be able to resist splashing in the creek!
What to bring:
Kids’ binoculars for spotting birds and wildlife.
A lightweight backpack for snacks and water bottles.
3. Governor Dodge State Park – Waterfalls and Lakes
Governor Dodge offers a mix of hiking trails, two lakes, and even waterfalls. It’s one of the best spots to combine hiking and water fun in the same day!
Kid-friendly highlights:
Stephens Falls, an easy walk to a waterfall that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
Beaches and boat rentals at Cox Hollow Lake.
Horseback riding and campsites for families staying overnight.
Pro Tip: Pack a picnic—there’s so much to do here that you’ll want to stay all day!
What to bring:
A family-sized picnic blanket for lounging by the lake.
Life jackets for kids if you plan to rent a boat or kayak.
A hiking carrier backpack if you’re adventuring with toddlers!
4. Kettle Moraine State Forest – Hikes for Every Age
Stretching across southern Wisconsin, Kettle Moraine is a dream for families who want to hike at their own pace. The diverse trails range from stroller-friendly to longer treks for older kids, and the scenery shifts from prairies to thick woodlands.
Kid-friendly highlights:
The Ice Age Trail passes through, offering shorter segments great for kids.
Lots of open prairies and woodlands perfect for nature spotting.
Educational visitor centers with interactive displays.
Pro Tip: Choose short trail loops to keep kids engaged and avoid meltdowns.
What to bring:
Bug nets or kid-friendly insect repellent—this natural bug spray option is our favorite!
A nature journal and colored pencils to encourage kids to sketch what they see.
Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated.
5. Mirror Lake State Park – Calm Waters for Paddling
If your kids are ready for a water adventure, Mirror Lake is the perfect introduction. The still, calm water makes it easy to try kayaking or paddleboarding as a family, while shaded picnic spots and sandy beaches round out the day.
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
Calm waters for canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
Sandy beaches for playtime and swimming.
Picnic spots tucked under shady trees.
Pro Tip: Rent a kayak or canoe for an hour—kids love being on the water, even for short trips.
What to Bring:
Dry bags to keep essentials safe and dry.
Kids’ paddles for easier participation.
A compact cooler for drinks and snacks.
6. Hartman Creek State Park – Biking and Beach Time
Tucked near Waupaca, Hartman Creek offers a quieter family escape. It’s less crowded than the bigger parks, which means more freedom for biking, hiking, and splashing at the beach without the bustle.
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
Gentle bike trails that are perfect for beginners.
A quiet beach for swimming and sand play.
Open space for running and exploring.
What to Bring:
A bike trailer for kids to extend family rides.
Sand toys for building castles at the beach.
Insulated water bottles for staying cool on hot days!
7. High Cliff State Park – Bluffs and History
Overlooking Lake Winnebago, High Cliff blends natural beauty with cultural history. Kids can learn about Native American effigy mounds, hike limestone bluffs, and climb the observation tower for panoramic lake views.
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
Hiking trails with stunning bluff views.
Effigy mounds that bring history to life.
A scenic tower that gives sweeping views of Lake Winnebago.
Pro Tip: Visit near sunset for unforgettable family photos!
What to Bring:
A comfortable daypack for essentials.
Kid's hiking boots for rocky trails.
Snack bags to fuel little explorers!
8. Peninsula State Park – Door County Favorite
Peninsula State Park is one of Wisconsin’s crown jewels, located in beautiful Door County. With a mix of sandy beaches, scenic overlooks, and a lighthouse to explore, it’s a full-day family destination that feels like a vacation in itself!
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
Nicolet Beach for swimming and sandcastle building.
The Eagle Bluff Lighthouse for a fun history stop.
Miles of biking trails, including an easy paved option.
Pro Tip: Rent bikes or a surrey bike at Nicolet Beach—kids love pedaling along the waterfront.
What to Bring:
9. Wyalusing State Park – Overlook of the Mighty Mississippi
Perched high above where the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers meet, Wyalusing is both scenic and educational. Families can enjoy sweeping views, caves to explore, and even some star-gazing at the park’s observatory.
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
Overlooks with incredible river valley views.
Short trails to caves and rock formations.
Interpretive programs and the on-site observatory.
Pro Tip: Stay for an evening stargazing program—it’s a rare treat for kids!
What to Bring:
Kids’ headlamps for exploring caves and evening hikes.
Binoculars for spotting eagles and river wildlife.
Light jackets for cooler nights on the bluffs.
10. Copper Falls State Park – Waterfalls & Northwoods Magic
Nestled in northern Wisconsin, Copper Falls is worth the drive for its stunning waterfalls and rugged trails. The park’s wooden bridges and boardwalks make the hikes fun and manageable for kids.
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
Two large waterfalls (Copper Falls and Brownstone Falls).
Easy hiking loops with bridges and overlooks.
Picnic areas under tall pine trees.
Pro Tip: Take the Doughboys’ Trail for a short loop that packs in waterfalls, bridges, and scenic views.
What to Bring:
Lightweight rain jackets—the mist near waterfalls can leave you damp.
All-terrain stroller for younger kids.
Reusable snack bags for trail munchies!
11. Kohler-Andrae State Park – Sand Dunes & Shoreline
Located along Lake Michigan near Sheboygan, Kohler-Andrae is famous for its wide sandy beaches and rolling dunes. Families love exploring the wooden boardwalks and splashing in the shallow shoreline.
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
A huge sandy beach for swimming and sandcastle building.
Wooden boardwalk trails through dunes and wetlands.
Nature center with kid-friendly programs.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the day—the beach can get breezy and cool in the late afternoon.
What to Bring:
Beach tent sunshade for a full day on the sand.
Sand toys for endless playtime!
Light jackets for cooler lakefront winds.
12. Blue Mound State Park – The Highest Point in Southern WI
Blue Mound offers a great mix of trails, history, and sweeping views. Families love climbing the observation towers and enjoying the large swimming pool in summer!
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
Two observation towers with panoramic views.
A seasonal outdoor swimming pool.
Picnic areas and easy family trails.
Pro Tip: Pack swimsuits in summer—the pool is a big hit after a hike!
What to Bring:
Swim gear + beach towels.
Binoculars for tower views!
Cooler backpack for lunch at the picnic areas.
13. Newport State Park – Wisconsin’s Dark Sky Park
Located in Door County, Newport is Wisconsin’s only designated Dark Sky Park. By day, families enjoy quiet hikes along Lake Michigan, and by night, incredible stargazing!
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
Lake Michigan shoreline trails and beaches.
Stargazing opportunities unique to this park.
Quiet, less crowded compared to other Door County parks.
Pro Tip: Plan an evening visit for stargazing—bring blankets and hot cocoa.
What to Bring:
Kids’ headlamps for nighttime exploring.
Warm layers for cool lakefront evenings.
Star chart or astronomy app to make stargazing interactive!
14. Big Foot Beach State Park – Lake Geneva Fun
On the shores of Lake Geneva, Big Foot Beach offers families a convenient mix of swimming, hiking, and picnicking—all just minutes from downtown! It’s great for pairing a park day with a little town exploring.
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
A large sandy beach on Lake Geneva.
Shaded picnic groves with grills.
Easy trails for short family hikes.
Pro Tip: Pair your park visit with ice cream in downtown Lake Geneva—it’s only a few minutes away!
What to Bring:
Water shoes for rocky swimming areas.
Reusable swim diapers if you’re traveling with toddlers.
15. Pattison State Park – Wisconsin’s Tallest Waterfall
Located in the northwest corner of Wisconsin, Pattison is home to Big Manitou Falls, the state’s tallest waterfall at 165 feet. Families love the hiking trails, swimming beach, and picnic areas surrounded by Northwoods beauty!
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
Big Manitou Falls and smaller Little Manitou Falls.
A family-friendly swimming beach.
Easy trails with great views of the falls.
Pro Tip: Stop at the overlooks—kids will be amazed by the thunderous waterfall.
What to Bring:
Light rain jackets (waterfall mist can get you damp - I recommend a bright color to see your child more easily while they're exploring).
Camera or phone tripod for family photos.
Comfortable walking shoes for easy trails.
Map It Out: Wisconsin Family Adventure Loops
Instead of trying to see them all at once, think of your trips as regional loops! This keeps drive times manageable and lets you dive deeper into each area. We usually visit just one park per day, but this list makes it easy to plan a weekend getaway or a longer Wisconsin adventure!
Southern Wisconsin Loop (2-3 days)
Perfect for a weekend trip with short hikes, big lakes, and swimming.
Governor Dodge State Park – waterfalls + caves.
Blue Mound State Park – towers + swimming pool.
Big Foot Beach – sandy Lake Geneva fun.
Central Wisconsin Loop – Paddle & Gorge (2–3 days)
Ideal for families wanting a mix of forest, beaches, and easy day hikes.
Mirror Lake State Park – quiet paddling & shaded trails.
Devil’s Lake State Park – iconic swimming & hiking.
Parfrey’s Glen – shaded gorge adventure.
Central Wisconsin Loop – Lakes & Dunes (2–3 days)
Perfect for swimming lakes, scenic cliffs, and sandy Lake Michigan beaches.
Hartman Creek State Park – clear swimming lakes.
High Cliff State Park – lake views + Native American mounds.
Kohler-Andrae State Park – sand dunes + Lake Michigan beach.
Door County & Lake Michigan Loop (3-4 days)
Combine lakefront beauty with small-town charm.
Peninsula State Park – Door County’s crown jewel.
Newport State Park – Dark Sky Park & quiet hikes.
Kohler-Andrae State Park – dunes & sandy shoreline (a great stop on your way north or back south).
Northern Wisconsin Loop (3–4 days)
For families up for a bigger adventure with waterfalls and Northwoods beauty.
Copper Falls State Park – waterfalls & dramatic gorges.
Pattison State Park – Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall.
Northern forests & lakes – plenty of space to disconnect and unwind.
Tips for Visiting Wisconsin State Parks with Kids
Start early. Parking lots at popular parks like Devil’s Lake fill up quickly!
Pack snacks and meals. Many parks have picnic tables, but bringing your own sunshade tent gives you the flexibility to make a shady spot anywhere.
Expect to get dirty. Between creeks, sand, and forest trails, kids will come home messy—which is half the fun!
Bring extra clothes and towels. A dry change makes the ride home much more comfortable!
Our Family Favorites for Exploring Outdoors
If you’re planning your own Wisconsin state park adventure, here are a few essentials we always bring along:
Pop-up Sunshade Tent – Perfect for picnics or the beach.
Kids’ Binoculars – Great for spotting birds, squirrels, and even deer.
Mesh Nets for Creek Play – A hit for catching minnows or bugs.
Collapsible Wagon – Saves your back when hauling gear.
Family Picnic Blanket – Easy to shake off and pack up.
Cooler Backpack – A lifesaver for snacks and drinks while exploring!
Phone Tripod – For family photos!
Life Jackets for Kids – If you plan to rent a boat or kayak.
Making the Most of Wisconsin Parks
Wisconsin truly offers endless opportunities for family adventures—you just have to get out and explore them! Whether your little ones are splashing in a creek at Parfrey’s Glen, climbing rocks at Devil’s Lake, or sketching wildflowers in Kettle Moraine, you’ll be glad you packed up the car and hit the road.
Adventure awaits—grab your gear, follow the map, and make unforgettable family memories in Wisconsin’s parks!
Jess
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