Interstate State Park

4.32

73 reviews

Scenic ViewsGreat HikingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

971 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

90 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Wisconsin DNR site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Quick Facts

971 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

90 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Wisconsin DNR site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Interstate State Park

No fees available

Campsite Fees

A vehicle admission sticker is required. Specific campsite fees not provided on the source.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Going To Camp

Provider

+1-715-483-3747

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What Campers Say

4.32

Recommended

Based on 73 reviews

1512 Google reviews

Most mentioned

scenerycleanshowersrestrooms

Some mention

noisemosquitoes

"Visitors consistently praise the hiking, scenic river and bluff views, the Potholes Trail and the Ice Age Interpretive Center. Campgrounds vary from well-separated rustic tent sites to closer electric sites; facilities are generally described as clean though some maintenance and noise issues are reported."

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Campground Map

Interstate State Park

45.3954, -92.6405

Accessible from Hwy 8 and Hwy 35; reviews note noticeable highway noise from these routes.

Best Time to Camp at Interstate State Park

Interstate State Park welcomes visitors year-round, each season painting the landscape in different colors. Fall is particularly magical—early October typically brings peak foliage that sets the gorge ablaze with autumn hues. During warmer months, the park comes alive with activity (just pack mosquito repellent for comfort). Winter transforms the Dalles into a quiet, frosted wonderland perfect for those seeking solitude among the ancient rocks.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best for swimming, boating and hiking; popular and can be crowded/noisy on summer weekends.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 7% in WI

Fall foliage (early October) makes the gorge particularly striking and highly recommended.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Trails and river scenery are attractive in spring; fewer specifics provided about spring conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Park open year-round but winter activities and campground availability are not specified.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Park open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. year-round; campground season not specified in source material.

About Interstate State Park

Step into Wisconsin's rich natural history at Interstate State Park, the state's oldest park, established in 1900 along the stunning St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Here, dramatic glacial potholes and the steep-walled Dalles gorge tell the story of ancient ice sheets, while the Ice Age Interpretive Center brings 10,000 years of geological wonder to life.

Two main camping areas: a developed north loop with electric hookup sites (reported 34 electric sites) and a rustic south campground with non-electric tent sites, fire rings and picnic tables.

Historical SignificanceWisconsin's oldest state park (est. 1900). The Ice Age Interpretive Center on site presents films and exhibits about glacial history; the park is associated with Ice Age features and trails.

Weather and SeasonsInterstate State Park welcomes visitors year-round, each season painting the landscape in different colors. Fall is particularly magical—early October typically brings peak foliage that sets the gorge ablaze with autumn hues. During warmer months, the park comes alive with activity (just pack mosquito repellent for comfort). Winter transforms the Dalles into a quiet, frosted wonderland perfect for those seeking solitude among the ancient rocks.

Natural Features and SceneryThe crown jewel of the park is the Dalles of the St. Croix—a breathtaking, steep-sided gorge carved by glacial meltwater thousands of years ago. Marvel at the deep glacial potholes swirling into solid rock, explore wooded trails that wind through rocky bluffs, and discover tranquil Lake O' the Dalles nestled along the scenic St. Croix River. Whether you're strolling riverside paths or tackling more rugged, rock-strewn routes that lead to sweeping overlooks, every trail offers its own reward of natural beauty and geological intrigue.

Geological RegionLocated on the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway; features the Dalles gorge, glacial potholes and other Ice Age glacial features.

Best Campsites

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Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Showers

Electricity hookups

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Strong emphasis on hiking and river/lake recreation along the St. Croix River and Lake O' the Dalles. Park offers trails ranging from easy to steep/rocky, shoreline swimming, boating (canoe/kayak), fishing, and wildlife viewing; the Ice Age Interpretive Center is onsite.

HikingExtensive trails with river and bluff views, including the Potholes Trail, Lake O' the Dalles trail, Summit Rock, Echo Canyon and connections to the Ice Age Trail; terrain ranges from easy walks to steep, rocky sections.

FishingFishing opportunities on the St. Croix River and Lake O' the Dalles are frequently mentioned by visitors.

SwimmingA large sandy swim beach on the river/lake; visitors note beach restrooms but report no showers at the beach.

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSteep cliffs and rugged rocky terrain on some trails (reviews note areas can be hazardous, particularly for small children or those with limited mobility). Mosquitoes are prevalent in warm months. Highway traffic noise from nearby Hwy 8/Hwy 35 can affect campsites.

Weather at Interstate State Park

Reviews

4.3

73 reviews

Recommended

Interstate State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Visitors consistently praise the hiking, scenic river and bluff views, the Potholes Trail and the Ice Age Interpretive Center. Campgrounds vary from well-separated rustic tent sites to closer electric sites; facilities are generally described as clean though some maintenance and noise issues are reported.

Review Summaries

Based on 73 reviews

What Campers Love

Outstanding hiking and scenery, sandy beach and lake access, canoeing/kayaking and fishing on the St. Croix River, accessible nature center/Ice Age exhibits, many reports of clean restrooms and...

Based on 73 reviews

Common Concerns

Traffic noise from Hwy 8 and Hwy 35, including constant semi braking; crowded and close sites especially in north loop and on weekends/summer; busy trails near river; some rangers overly strict on...

Based on 73 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reserve midweek or shoulder season to avoid crowds (midweek in October noted as quiet); bring bug spray; use GPS for trail navigation; select south or off-loop sites for better privacy; check...

Based on 73 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Hiking was the best part. Awesome trails with lots of rocks and beautiful views above the river." • "Vault toilets only, but they were pretty well maintained and not too stinky."

Based on 73 reviews

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Last updated February 17, 2026

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