Welcome to the Exploration Zone

 

Willow River State Park spans nearly 3,000 acres of rolling prairie, lush forests, and panoramic river scenery. With over 15 miles of hiking trails to explore, it is the ultimate backdrop for a real-world treasure hunt.

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Geocaching here is a fantastic family-friendly activity​, but the park also offers plenty of terrain variance —like steep hills and towering overlooks— to satisfy even the most seasoned hunters looking for a challenge.

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No GPS? No Problem!

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You don't need fancy gear to start hunting. You can rent our official GPS units for free! These come pre-programmed with coordinates for the park's caches, letting you hunt for treasures right out of the gate.

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How to Get Yours: Simply visit the Nature Center during open hours between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM daily (dependent on host availability) and request your geocaching GPS unit.

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The Explorer's Toolkit: What to Bring

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Before you set off into the wilderness, make sure your inventory is packed:

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• Loot for Trade:
  Bring small, family friendly trinkets (like keychains, pins, or small toys) if you want to trade items inside the hidden chests.
   

• Trekking Gear:
  Sturdy hiking shoes are highly recommended to tackle the rocky paths and steep climbs. 
   

• The Signature:
  Don't forget to bring a pen! You'll need it to sign your name on the physical logbooks.

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The Treasure Hunter's Code

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Every great explorer respects the land they hunt on. Keep these essential park rules in mind:

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• Secure Your Passage (Vehicle Admission Sticker): 
  A Wisconsin State Park daily or annual vehicle admission sticker is required for all vehicles entering the park. The friendly staff at the park entrance will gladly help you secure yours when you arrive.
   

• Official DNR Sanctioned Treasures: 
  Rest assured that you are on a legitimate, high-quality quest. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources requires formal permission for caches placed on state land. Every treasure container you hunt for on our trails is officially approved, safely placed, and permitted by park authorities.
   

• Leave No Trace:
  A true explorer leaves no trace of their expedition. When you close in on the treasure's location, move carefully to protect the surrounding plants and wildlife. Once you’ve signed the logbook, restore the hiding spot exactly as you found it, ensuring the container remains perfectly concealed from unsuspecting travelers.