
ADVENTURE
AWAITS!
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your outdoor skills, find a new family tradition, or give back to the trails you love, there’s a place for you here.
Explore our upcoming events, educational programs, and group opportunities to see how you can make a difference.
Our Top Recommendations:
Willow River State Park
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Explore 13+ Miles of Hiking Trails:
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Hidden Ponds Nature Trail (0.5 miles): Universally accessible paved loop right behind the Nature Center. Make sure to grab a rubbing booklet!
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Hike to Willow Falls: Experience the park's crown jewel —a breathtaking, multi-tiered waterfall. Multiple trails lead to the falls, ranging from short paved walks to scenic loops. Choose the route that best fits your visit.
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Paddle Little Falls Lake: Little Falls Lake is a quiet, non-motorized lake —ideal for kayaks or canoes. We have rentals easily accessible and available!
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Fishing: Trout, bass, and panfish are common throughout the river and lake. A valid Wisconsin fishing license is required.
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Natural Playground: Let kids explore an interactive play area with bouldering rocks, stepping pods, climbing logs, balance beams, a rope bridge, and an eagle’s nest lookout.
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​Visit the Nature Center: Stop by the park's hub for interactive environmental exhibits, live displays, gift shop items, and naturalist guidance.​
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Rent a Free Birding Backpack: Available at the Nature Center—packed with field guides and high-quality binoculars to help you explore Willow River's rich bird habitats.
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Geocaching: Whether you're using an app on your phone or want to use one of our pre-programmed handheld GPS devices from the Nature Center, geocaching is a fun, family-friendly way to turn any hike into a real-life adventure.
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Swim & Relax at Little Falls Lake Beach: Perfect for a picnic or family get-together. Conveniently located near restrooms and playground.
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​Nature Journaling & Education Workshops: Join free weekly naturalist-led classes, prairie walks, and invertebrate hunts.
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Volunteer: Participate in invasive species removal, post-holiday park cleanup, and more.

