Interstate State Park
4.3273 reviewsInterstate State Park
Quick Facts
Price
Varies
Booking
Reservable
Sites
Varies
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
Varies
Booking
Reservable
Sites
Varies
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsInterstate 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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Going To Camp
Provider+1-715-483-3747
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."
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.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Best
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
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.
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Campsite details
Total Campsitesnull campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonPark open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. year-round; campground season not specified in source material.
Reservation PlatformsGoingToCamp (https://wisconsin.goingtocamp.com)
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
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.
Hiking
Extensive 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.Fishing
Fishing opportunities on the St. Croix River and Lake O' the Dalles are frequently mentioned by visitors.Swimming
A large sandy swim beach on the river/lake; visitors note beach restrooms but report no showers at the beach.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsSteep 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
-12
°F
Dec 14
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Humidity: 65%
Wind: 8.7 mph
Clear sky
Weather History
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Good to know
Common complaintsCrowding on summer weekends; traffic noise from nearby Hwy 8/Hwy 35 at some sites; north-loop electric sites described as close together; occasional maintenance issues (showers, dock); mosquitoes in some seasons.
Campground Map
Interstate State Park
Accessible from Hwy 8 and Hwy 35; reviews note noticeable highway noise from these routes.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
73 reviews
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 reviewsShow more
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 reviewsShow more
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 reviewsShow more
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 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 14, 2025
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