6 Wisconsin State Parks for Camping With a View

Imagine opening the flap on your tent to reveal a beautiful vista, complete with rolling hills and winding rivers. Or stepping out of your cozy motorhome as you camp along the breathtaking bluffs of the Driftless Region. Or, stargazing with loved ones within view of a historic lighthouse.

Whether you pitch a tent with friends, RV with the whole family, backpack or live the van life, these six state parks are as picturesque as it gets. Enjoy making memories at wooded campsites, sandy beaches and beautiful waterfront scenery you can only find in Wisconsin.

Wyalusing State Park – Bagley

Camp 500 feet above the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers at one of Wisconsin’s oldest state parks. Wyalusing State Park is home to two campgrounds, Wisconsin Ridge and Homestead. To experience the best views, pitch your tent bluffside at one of the Wisconsin Ridge sites and take in your surroundings for miles.

There’s no shortage of adventures to be had while you camp here. Visit the many Native American burial mounds situated inside the park or travel down the breathtaking canoe trail. A boat ramp within the park gives you easy access to the mighty Mississippi, and kayak and canoe rentals are available from the park (every day in summer and on weekends only in spring and fall).

Harrington Beach State Park – Belgium

Just two hours north of Chicago and located right along the shore of Lake Michigan, Harrington Beach State Park encompasses 702 acres, including a mile-long sandy beach and scenic 25-acre quarry lake.

Hike through the 80-acre white cedar lowland forest for a chance to see wildlife and colors aplenty. If you’re into fishing, Quarry Lake and Puckett’s Pond provide angling opportunities for trout, smallmouth bass and panfish. And for a close-up view of the night sky, visit the park observatory and enjoy stargazing with powerful telescopes. 

If soaking up the sun at the beach or taking in a beautiful sunrise over the waves is where you belong, everyone in your group will enjoy camping at Harrington Beach.

Big Bay State Park – Madeline Island

Set up camp just steps away from a secluded beach on Lake Superior for a getaway to remember. Tucked away in a bay on Madeline Island's shore of Lake Superior, camping at Big Bay State Park allows you and your crew to view some of the state's most breathtaking undisturbed wilderness. Wake up to the sounds of waves outside your tent and end the day with a spectacular sunset on the beach.

Your journey begins and ends with a scenic ferry ride from Bayfield to Madeline Island–now that’s remote! 

Mirror Lake State Park – Baraboo

Near the popular Wisconsin Dells, you’ll find a surprisingly peaceful, picturesque lake surrounded by sandstone bluffs at Mirror Lake State Park. The campsites here are wooded and just steps away from the water.

Boat, canoe or kayak across the deep-blue lake and view the ancient rock formations created by early civilizations. Rentals are available right in the park for easy access. 

Mirror Lake State Park's main draw, the lake, is entirely no-wake. The no-wake zone, combined with the expansive bluffs that protect the lake from wind, gives the lake its mirror-like appearance and allows for easy paddling. You’ll experience nature's peacefulness without the sounds of boat engines roaring here.

Rock Island State Park – Washington Island

Even the journey to Rock Island State Park is extraordinary. Take the ferry with your crew from the Door County peninsula to Washington Island, and then another to Rock Island. You'll never forget the awe-inspiring views while gliding across Lake Michigan.

Rock Island itself is complete with stone buildings, built by a wealthy inventor who used to own the island. Vehicles aren't allowed on the island, keeping you immersed in the outdoors. Set up your tent right along either the Green Bay or Lake Michigan sides of the island and get all the time in the water your heart desires 

Peninsula State Park — Fish Creek

Not far from Rock Island (and before the ferry rides) lies another iconic Wisconsin oasis: Peninsula State Park. Hike and bike along the 8 miles of Green Bay coastline, explore the historic Eagle Bluff Light Station, kayak along sheer cliffs and enjoy a refreshing swim at Nicolet Beach.

As for the views, take in incredible sunrises and sunsets from campsites around the peninsula. And for the park’s greatest view, head to the top of the newly reconstructed Eagle Tower. The tower’s 850-foot wheelchair-accessible ramp follows a scenic loop through beech tree forest before the breathtaking Lake Michigan view at the top.

Discover more breathtaking beauty by visiting the Wonders of Wisconsin!