Between Green Bay And Rochester Is Wisconsin's State Park With Camping, Hiking, And Water Activities

With sweeping lakeshores, dense state forests, and scenic riverways, Wisconsin is home to diverse destinations that can intrigue all kinds of nature lovers. The state's fourth-largest inland body of water, the Castle Rock Flowage (aka Castle Rock Lake), is a premier central Wisconsin hub for water recreation, with Buckhorn State Park as its anchor. The freshwater lake surrounds the park on multiple sides, giving the entire area an open-water atmosphere with views of the shoreline. Buckhorn State Park sits directly on a peninsula formed by the Castle Rock Flowage, comprising more than 6,990 acres. With lush woods, open prairies, and a spacious lakefront, visitors enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.

Opened in 1971, Buckhorn State Park beckons hikers, boaters, and anglers. With mostly flat trails that wind through its diverse habitats, you'll have opportunities to climb an observation tower, meander among oak woodlands, and observe wildlife. You can also take in the scenery on two wheels using the park roads. When it comes to lake fun, there are ample water activities. Lounge on a sandy swimming beach or enjoy boating — you can explore the water on a variety of vessels. There's even a self-guided canoe trail for those who prefer non-motorized boating. Fishing is popular at the park, where you can cast a line from a boat, the shoreline, or the accessible pier.

When the day is over, you can enjoy an overnight stay at the park. Buckhorn offers a range of camping options, whether you prefer standard RV and tent sites, larger ones for groups, or a rustic backcountry escape. Basic amenities and facilities are provided for a comfortable camping experience. Buckhorn State Park is situated roughly between Green Bay and Rochester. The drive from Green Bay takes about two hours and 20 minutes, whereas Rochester, Minnesota, is a bit closer at around two hours.

There is plenty of room to camp at Buckhorn State Park, from pitching a tent in the woods to parking an RV with electric hookups. After brushing up on campground etiquette rules, choose where you want to base your adventures. The family campground features 69 tent and RV sites, 20 of which come with electric hookups. Those claiming a site here can choose between drive-in and pull-through sites, with each spot equipped with a table and fire ring. Campers have access to restrooms, a shower house, and a dump station.

Parties of up to 40 people can book one of the group sites. With three campsites, amenities here include vault toilets and water, as well as a horseshoe pit and volleyball court for recreation. Similarly, you can rough it at one of the individual backpacking sites, which come with a picnic table and fire ring. Backpackers will generally need to use portable toilets in this camping area, although four sites have a dedicated pit toilet. For a more accessible overnight option, there's one cabin designed for wheelchair accessibility, with stays limited to four nights per year. This unit sleeps up to six guests. There's also a daytime-only shelter with a picnic table and screened windows for guests staying at specific sites.

While some of the campsites are open year-round, note that there's a major road construction project throughout 2026. This will disrupt services at several camping areas and the accessible cabin. Make sure to check the state park website for the latest information on which campsites and facilities are available during your visit.

Buckhorn State Park provides both land- and water-based activities. A few easy trails allow you to take in the sights without breaking a sweat, starting with the Barrens Nature Trail. This 0.9-mile loop lets you get acquainted with the park's flora and fauna, with informative signs dotting the path. As you stroll the trail, you'll come across an observation tower, which you can climb to admire the views. The Central Sands Nature Loop is another trail that covers 1.2 miles. This flat path starts from the backpacking sites on the park's west side, guiding you toward the water before circling back to the campground. Other trails worth hiking include Turkey Hollow, Partridge, and Glacial Lake Trails, all of which offer short walks.

Wisconsin's scenic Castle Rock Lake is a Midwest gem for kayaking, canoeing, boating, fishing, and swimming. The sandy beach is located near the cabin unit and stretches along 300 feet of the lakeshore — guests with mobility needs can borrow a beach wheelchair. Pets also have their own beach across the family campground on the opposite side of the lake. After splashing around, set afloat on the lake from the boat launches on the peninsula. Opt for faster-paced activities such as water skiing and jet skiing. For a more leisurely cruise, launch a pontoon or a sailboat.

Paddlers can follow the park's self-guided canoe trail, which takes you on a 1.8-mile journey. Along the way, you'll pass through wetlands and may spot wildlife like frogs, beavers, wood ducks, and more. Meanwhile, fishing enthusiasts can set their rods on any of the piers to catch muskie, walleye, and largemouth bass. You can have a similar experience at Lake Koshkonong, Wisconsin's large but shallow lake with swimming, fishing, and boating.