Between Green Bay And La Crosse Is Wisconsin's Friendly Village With Lake Fun, Trails, And Camping

Green Bay and La Crosse are two large Wisconsin cities with must-see landmarks. However, if a small town with outdoor adventures is what you seek, Hancock — a village nestled between these two destinations — might be what you're looking for. Located in ​​Waushara County on Interstate 39, Hancock is home to just a few hundred residents, stating on its website that it's a place "where neighbors know each other by name." Visitors will experience this friendly atmosphere around town as they take advantage of Hancock's recreational opportunities. Nature and fun await; the village has lovely lakes, segments of the iconic Ice Age Trail, and camping to enjoy.

Pine Lake is one body of water you'll find in Hancock. It spans 104 acres, with its shores featuring verdant trees that reflect on the water. On Google, an individual wrote that it's a "Great lake for fishing." They added, "I always catch plenty of nice bass, some as nice as 22 inch[es]." Cast lines from the dock or BYOB (bring your own boat) to cruise the water. However, there's another option for anglers in Hancock. 

Pine Lake neighbors Hancock Park and the aptly named Fish Lake, featuring northern pike, walleye, and other species. Be sure to visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources' website for up-to-date regulations, and consider that spring, summer, and fall are especially ideal for fishing in the Badger State. Still, this isn't the only outdoor activity offered here. Hancock Park has a self-service kiosk for kayaks, perfect for exploring the water (a boat ramp is available). If the weather permits, you could always go for a swim, too.

Visitors can make Tomorrow Wood Campground their base for outdoor adventure. This family-friendly site offers RV and tent camping on the shores of Fish Lake for even more lake fun. Tomorrow Wood Campground boasts a playground, sport courts, and an ice cream shop serving Wisconsin-made scoops. Reviewers on Google say that the service at the campground is dependable, with one individual writing that the owners "help you out whenever they can." Tomorrow Wood Campground is open seasonally, and reservations can be made by phone. Updates are frequently posted on Facebook. 

Fish Lake is also located near Bohn Lake State Natural Area. Here, you can explore the Bohn Lake Segment of the Ice Age Trail, which passes through 30 counties and some of Wisconsin's most scenic landscapes. There is a parking lot off of County Highway B, where you can access the trail and embark on a 1.1-mile hike to the northeast end of the lake. The trek includes a boardwalk, seasonal foliage, and waterfront views. Plus, there's a bench that invites hikers to "sit for a spell."

Alternatively, hikers in Hancock can opt for the Ice Age Trail's Greenwood Segment. There is a trailhead on 9th Avenue that will take you through the wooded Greenwood Wildlife Area. Per AllTrails, the 5.3-mile hike leads to the Mecan River Segment, where you can continue on to reach the Mecan Springs State Natural Area. Take note that the Ice Age Trail Alliance advises hikers to don orange during hunting season. If you need new footwear for your trek, read about the most popular shoe brands in the U.S. for hikers.

Hancock's lakeside activities and Ice Age Trail access provide a laid-back retreat. Visitors can also choose to make Oasis Campground their temporary home. In addition to RV and tent sites, guests can book wood cabins that accommodate four to six people (reservations can be made online). A reviewer on Google gave Oasis Campground a "10/10," writing that it has "Lots of fun activities for the whole family." Campers can spend their days by the heated pool or playing pickleball, among other activities.

Most notably, Oasis Campground has a Wibit Inflatable Waterpark (open seasonally) on a sizable pond. With a climbing wall and other obstacle-course-like features, users on Google say that this is a highlight for both kids and adults. Better still, day passes are available to those who aren't staying at Oasis Campground. Keep in mind that both Oasis Campground and Tomorrow Wood Campground are near the village's amenities, like Gramma Miller's Farm Market. The quaint mom-and-pop shop offers produce and baked goods, with several reviewers on Google describing the staff as friendly. Gramma Miller's Farm Market has seasonal hours, so be sure to check Facebook for additional information.

Dining options in Hancock are minimal, with Good Ol' Boys — which serves sandwiches and broasted chicken (a Midwestern specialty) — being one of the only eateries in town. Yet, you can expect a welcoming experience. "We are always greeted and thanked for stopping in!" reads a review from Google. Need more ideas for your Hancock itinerary? Petenwell Lake is a popular fishing and boating destination that's located under an hour away from the village.