Parks
Colburn Wildlife Area
Located in the Colburn township of Adams County, this area provides plenty of meadows, wetlands, marshes, and trees in its near 5000 acres. There is also plenty of wildlife running through the area, from songbirds to the occasional bear.
Walden Park Kayak Launch
Need a place to launch your canoes and kayaks? The Walden Park Kayak Launch, located at 9th Ave, where the creek meets Lake Camelot, is at your service! Thanks to collaborations between Visit Rome, DRAFT, the Town of Rome Parks and Rec Committee and Knee Deep Shore Supplies LLC, this kayak launch is available for public use.
Lake Arrowhead County Park
Located on the western shoreline close to where the dam flows back into Fourteen-Mile creek. There is a beach, picnic tables, playground equipment, public boat landing, restrooms and a public shelter house that can be reserved. The park is also located next to the Shermalot Waterski Show Team performance area.
Lake Camelot County Park
No need to hop “across the pond” to launch your boats! Lake Camelot County Park has plenty of room to set sail on your favorite watercraft.
Leola Marsh Wildlife Reserve
This former marsh in the Rapids area is a perfect grassland destination for birding, hiking, and wildlife viewing. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a prairie chicken or two “booming” around the area.
What is “booming?” Check out this video!
Petenwell County Park
Petenwell County Park, the 2nd largest county park in Wisconsin, is open year-round and situated on Lake Petenwell, the 2nd largest body of water in Wisconsin. With 160 acres of boat launches, swimming areas, hiking trails, and campsites, Petenwell Park is second to none with its beauty!
Sandhill Wildlife Area
Located in Babcock, this State Wildlife Area is truly in a world of its own. Filled with forests of oak, aspen and pine, marshes and flowages, and home to various animals with fur and feathers, this area is proud to be known as “a remote, quiet wildlife oasis amidst a bustling world.” Be sure to check out all the unique events held here, ranging from birdwatching to hiking and biking.
Quincy Bluffs State Natural Area
Coming here is akin to stepping into a time machine, traveling back 300 some years to experience the once vast Wisconsin wilderness. Enjoy hiking through the untamed wilderness and explore this park from its famous bluffs and peaks.
Riverside Park
Located in Nekoosa, this park is situated mere steps from the mighty Wisconsin river. Perfect for family gatherings, big events, or just enjoying the area, this park is well-known for its beauty and versatility. While you’re there, be sure to check out the veterans’ memorial year-round or the annual Pumpkin Fest in October.
Roche-A-Cri State Park
Flat-topped and cliff-sided, Roche-A-Cri Mound is really a rock island in what was once Glacial Lake Wisconsin, which covered much of central Wisconsin about 15,000 years ago. While you’re there, check out some of the art carved into the rocks by Ho-Chunk ancestors.
Room to Roam Dog Park of Rome
Free! Operates on donations. Open all the time. 9.8 acres to run and play! Rolling field with benches, picnic shelter, picnic tables, dog agility equipment and chairs. Poop bags provided. We feel this is the happiest place in Central Wisconsin! This is a nine acre fenced in park.
South Wood County Park
Located on Lake Wazeecha in Rapids and nearby Red and White Sand Beaches, the South Wood County Park has something for everyone. Whether it’s riding your bike around the lake, hiking on a paved trail, or even just enjoying a day at the “beach,” this is a park meant for fun!
Sand Valley Restoration Trust, Llc.
This property consists of approximately 8,900 acres in Adams County, Town of Monroe, and Big Flats. The objective for the land owned by the Trust is to restore native plant communities that existed prior to European contact. The restoration of native plant communities will help recover several rare species such as the Kirtland's Warbler, Karner Blue Butterfly, and Slender Glass Lizard.
Also, you can learn more about the work the SVRT is doing or stay up to date with volunteer opportunities by following SVRT on Facebook at @SandValleyRestorationTrust
Twin Lakes Park
This land is owned by Wisconsin River Power Company who built the lake in the 1940s by damming the Wisconsin River by State Road 21 with the Petenwell Hydro Dam. Twin Lakes Nature Center walk-in boat launch is great for small fishing boat, canoes and kayaks. On the eastside of County Road Z is a wetland area with a culvert under the road to a small bay then creates an flow current out to Petenwell. This area offer good shoreline fishing for carp, catfish, perch and the occasional bass, northern pike and even musky.
Tri-Norse Winter Park
Since 1928, the Tri-Norse Winter Park has attracted brave and bold ski jumpers to conquer their slides ranging from 5 to 55 meters high. The park is also open for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing during the winter, but the fun isn’t limited to one season! Be sure to check out their “Mini Mudder” for kids in the summer and the annual “Colorama” leaf viewing in the fall.
Wisconsin River Trail
You’ll find glorious trees, singing birds and river views along this trail. Traveling from downtown Wisconsin Rapids through Port Edwards and into Nekoosa, this 9.5-mile trail connects the communities through a dedicated, paved, bike trail. Pack a picnic and set off on a family adventure!