17 of the Best State Parks in Wisconsin for Families with Kids

Wisconsin is home to some of the most beautiful state parks in the country. If you’re looking for a great place to take your family on vacation, these parks are worth checking out.

From scenic hiking trails and snowshoeing opportunities to sandy beaches and unforgettable historical sites, there’s something for everyone at Wisconsin’s state parks.

So, keep reading for our list of the 17 best state parks in Wisconsin for families with kids, and start planning your next family vacation in the state now.

1. Kohler-Andrae State Park

You’ll find plenty to keep the whole family entertained at Kohler-Andrae State Park. Located in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, the park is best known for its miles of sandy beaches along the shores of Lake Michigan.

But there are also plenty of hiking and biking trails winding through dunes and forests, plus a playground and picnic areas for the little ones to run around and enjoy a snack when they get tuckered out from exploring.

 If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go for a swim in one of the Great Lakes. Best of all, the park is just a short drive from Milwaukee, making it easy to get there.

The address of the state park is: 1020 Beach Park Ln, Sheboygan, WI 53081

2. Governor Thompson State Park

Governor Thompson State Park in Wisconsin is often considered the best state park in Wisconsin for families with kids.

Adjacent to Peshtigo River, which offers fisherman access not only into Canada but also onto Lake Superior’s North Channel, the state park provides visitors with six miles of gorgeous shoreline on Caldron Falls Flowage and over 2,800 acres of forest for visitors to explore.

In addition, the park offers plenty of opportunities for adults to relax and enjoy the scenery, with miles of hiking trails and a fishing pond.

Governor Thompson State Park is also home to an abundance of wildlife, making it a great place to go birdwatching or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.

The address of the state park is: N10008 Paust Ln, Crivitz, WI 54114

3. Hartman Creek State Park

Hartman Creek State Park is one of the best state parks in Wisconsin for families with kids. The park has a playground, a picnic area, and plenty of hiking trails.

There are also a few small ponds where you can go fishing or take a paddleboard or kayak out with your kids on one of the park’s stunning lakes.

The park is located near Waupaca, Wisconsin, and it’s a great place to visit in the summertime. The waterfalls and streams are beautiful, and plenty of trees provide shade on hot days.

However, you can also visit the park in the winter and introduce your kids to snowshoeing, an activity they’ll surely remember fondly.

The address of the state park is: N2480 Hartman Creek Rd, Waupaca, WI 54981

4. High Cliff State Park

Nestled atop a limestone cliff that overlooks Lake Winnebago, High Cliff State Park is one of the best state parks in Wisconsin for families with kids.

With miles of hiking and biking trails, a picturesque campground, and plenty of opportunities for fishing and boating, the park has something for everyone.

Kids can cool off in the water on hot summer days, while adults can relax in the shade of the giant oak trees. And in the winter, the park’s sledding hill and cross-country ski trails are a blast for kids and adults alike.

Other activities at the park include horseback riding, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and visiting the observation tower for panoramic views of the park.

The address of the state park is: N7630 State Park Rd, Sherwood, WI 54169

5. Blue Mound State Park

Looking for a great state park to take the kids to? You can’t go wrong with Blue Mound State Park in Wisconsin. This beautiful park is situated on a 1,719-foot-tall bedrock bluff overlooking the scenic Missouri River Valley for views that you and your kids won’t forget.

Plus, the park offers plenty of activities for kids of all ages, from hiking and camping to picnicking and swimming.

You can take advantage of more than 20 miles of hiking trails that also double as cross-country skiing routes in the winter or BMX mountain biking trails.

But perhaps the most popular attraction of the park is camping. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or want to introduce your family to it, Blue Mound State Park might be the perfect place to do so.

The address of the state park is: 4350 Mounds Park Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517

6. Rib Mountain State Park

Wisconsin is home to some of the best state parks in the country, and Rib Mountain State Park is no exception. Located just outside of Wausau, this park offers something for everyone, from hiking and biking trails to a playground and picnic area. Best of all, it’s a great place for families with kids.

The park has a wide variety of activities to keep little ones entertained, from skiing to exploring the amphitheater.

And when it’s time for a break, there are plenty of benches and picnic tables where parents can relax and enjoy the scenic views.

So whether you’re looking for a day of adventure or a peaceful place to gather with friends and family, be sure to add Rib Mountain State Park to your list.

The address of the state park is: 4200 Park Rd, Wausau, WI 54401

7. Perrot State Park

With its extensive birdwatching and hiking opportunities, Perrot State Park is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway with the family. Its range in the landscape, from limestone bluffs to prairie flatlands and river bed makes it a stunning region to hike or bike around.

Perrot State Park is also a popular destination for camping. And, the park has historical Native American landmarks that have remained preserved over the years, which offer an exciting learning opportunity for your little ones.

Plus, with its convenient location just outside of Wisconsin Dells, Perrot State Park is an easy drive from most parts of the state.

The address of the state park is: 26247 Sullivan Rd, Trempealeau, WI 54661

8. Newport State Park

Newport State Park is a beautiful place to spend the day with your family. The park has plenty of activities for kids, including hiking, biking, and swimming. The park has over 2,000 acres of land to explore, including forested hills, wetlands, and 11 miles of beautiful lake shoreline.

The best part about Newport State Park is that it’s located right on Lake Michigan. This means that you can enjoy stunning views of the water while you’re spending time with your family. There are also plenty of picnic areas and playgrounds for kids to explore.

Best of all, the park is located just minutes from the city of Sturgeon Bay, making it easy to get to.

The address of the state park is: 475 County Rd NP, Ellison Bay, WI 54210

9. Peninsula State Park

If you’re looking for a great state park in Wisconsin for families with kids, look no further than Peninsula State Park. The park is located on a peninsula that juts out into Lake Michigan, providing stunning views of the water as well as ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating.

There are also miles of hiking and biking trails, and the park is a popular destination for cross-country skiing in the winter. Best of all, the park is just a short drive from Green Bay, making it easy to get to most parts of the state.

If you’re looking for a great place to take your family for a weekend getaway, be sure to add Peninsula State Park to your list.

The address of the state park is: 9462 Shore Rd, Fish Creek, WI 54212

10. Copper Falls State Park

Copper Falls State Park has a wide variety of activities and attractions that will keep everyone in the family happy, from hiking and biking trails to stunning waterfalls and deep gorges.

As you wander through the wilderness, you may also stumble across some log structures that have been around since the 1930s when the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed them.

The park also has a playground, picnic areas, and a campground.

Plus, it is a short drive from Wausau and neighboring parks like the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and Northern Highland American Legion State Forest, making it a perfect choice for a day trip when you’re visiting the city or touring Wisconsin’s parks.

The address of the state park is: 36664 Copper Falls Rd, Mellen, WI 54546

11. Wyalusing State Park

Wyalusing State Park is a beautiful Wisconsin state park located in the northwest corner of the state. The park offers a variety of activities for families with kids, making it one of the best state parks in Wisconsin for families.

With its towering bluffs overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, Wyalusing State Park is a great place to hike, camp, fish, and canoe. The park also has a playground, picnic areas, and a sand volleyball court.

In addition, there are several miles of trails suitable for biking and cross-country skiing. Wyalusing State Park is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the fun.

The address of the state park is: 13081 State Park Ln, Bagley, WI 53801

12. Amnicon Falls State Park

Amnicon Falls State Park in Wisconsin is the perfect place for a family getaway. The park offers a variety of activities for kids of all ages, from hiking and swimming to fishing and canoeing.

If you plan your visit in the winter, you can set out on the trails in snowshoes instead. Best of all, the park is home to Amnicon Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Wisconsin.

The Falls are an impressive sight, and the park’s scenic hiking trails and iconic covered bridge offer the perfect opportunity to explore them. Plus, once you make your way to the falls, you can take a dip in the refreshing waters of both the upper and lower levels.

If you want to make the most of your trip to the park, you can extend your stay by camping at one of the park’s 36 designated campsites.

The address of the state park is: 4279 County Rd U, South Range, WI 54874

13. Devil’s Lake State Park

Devil’s Lake State Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an outdoor adventure. The park offers hiking, biking, and camping, as well as a variety of other activities. Devil’s Lake is also the perfect place for a family outing.

The park has a playground, picnic area, and a beach where kids can play in the sand and water. Devil’s Lake State Park also has a rich history and is home to many important geological features, making it a truly unique place to visit.

The best part about the park is that it’s located near the city of Baraboo, so there are plenty of activities to do after a day at the park. Families can visit the Timbavati Wildlife Park, Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Education Center, and Ho-Chunk Gaming.

The address of the state park is: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913

14. Harrington Beach State Park

Located just south of Milwaukee, Harrington Beach State Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors with your family. With nearly 800 acres of land to explore, the park offers plenty of space for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

The sandy beaches along Lake Michigan are perfect for swimming and building sandcastles, and the nearby playgrounds are a hit with kids of all ages. Best of all, the park is open year-round, so you can enjoy its beauty no matter what time of year it is.

Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Harrington Beach State Park is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved ones.

The address of the state park is: 531 Co Rd D, Belgium, WI 53004

15. Heritage Hill State Historical Park

Heritage Hill State Historical Park is a great state park to explore with children and a fun educational experience thanks to the many historical structures and an open-air museum.

You can take your kids and spend an entire day exploring the old and new reconstructions, explore the more than 400 acres of land or set up a picnic for a midday snack and adventure break.

In addition, the park offers a variety of events throughout the year, such as concerts and reenactments. Whether you’re looking for a day of fun or an educational outing, Heritage Hill State Historical Park is the perfect destination.

The address of the state park is: 2640 S Webster Ave, Green Bay, WI 54301

16. Lakeshore State Park

Lakeshore State Park is a perfect spot to visit if you’re looking for a state park that caters to families with young children. The park has something for everyone, with educational and recreational spots with fun activities for the whole family.

The urban-centered park also has various trails for biking, walking, skating, running, and exploring.

If the weather permits, you can take a canoe, boat, or kayak trip to the water. Plus, the park is located minutes from the heart of Downtown Milwaukee, so it’s easy to get to and offers a nice reprieve from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The address of the state park is: 500 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202

17. Mirror Lake State Park

Mirror Lake State Park in beautiful Wisconsin is the perfect spot to enjoy nature with your family. The park’s namesake lies at its heart and offers visitors a refreshing reprieve from hiking and exploring the surrounding wilderness.

Visitors can take a kayak, canoe out onto the water, or dive freestyle in the designated swimming beach area.

If the water isn’t your thing, you can always take advantage of the various hiking trails and take in the gorgeous flora in the area. When you need a quick break, you can set up a picnic in one designated area.

 In addition to the plethora of activities offered at Mirror Lake State Park, you can extend your stay with a camping trip or rent one of the many rustic cabins in the park.

The address of the state park is: E10320 Fern Dell Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913

Final Thoughts

​​If you’re looking for a great way to spend a summer day or weekend, head out to one of Wisconsin’s state parks. With activities ranging from fishing and canoeing to horseback riding and geocaching, there’s something for everyone in the family. And don’t forget the amazing views.

So, as you plan your family adventure to Wisconsin, don’t forget to add some of our choices for the 17  best state parks in Wisconsin for families with kids to your itinerary. These parks will keep your whole family entertained all day long.