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Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Wisconsin Dells

Couple hiking at Rocky Arbor State Park

June 24, 2023

Wisconsin Dells Outdoor Activities

If you’re looking for all the great outdoor things to do in Wisconsin Dells, we have a list of all the best spots for hiking, fishing, golfing, camping and more right here!

Paddleboarding in Wisconsin Dells

Enjoy the outdoor beauty of Wisconsin Dells this summer! Many of our waterparks and other attractions are open; however, take a little break and breathe in the fresh air. Wisconsin Dells is home to countless outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, golfing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Adding any of these to your itinerary would make a wonderful vacation for a family or couple getaway. Explore some of the best outdoor things to do in the Dells below and don’t forget to book a campsite or cabin to enhance your outdoor adventure!

Hiking Trails

Bring your hiking shoes, water bottle and excitement for a day of adventure! Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or a novice, Wisconsin Dells has a number of scenic walking and hiking trails. Wisconsin Dells is surrounded by a trio of incredible state parks – Devil’s Lake State Park, Mirror Lake State Park, and Rocky Arbor State Park.

Devil's Lake State Park has more than 29 miles of hiking trails. Some trails are ideal for a family hike and others are more rugged and perfect for the experienced hiker. The East Bluff vista has incredible birds-eye views of rolling hills and rock formations, but this route is ideal for someone that’s not afraid of a little hard work. Another great option is the Tumbled Rocks Trail, which is a walking trail ideal for strollers and people looking for a comfortable scenic trail. For more information on Devil’s Lake State Park’s free options, hours and more visit Wisconsin DNR's Devil's Lake State Park page.

Mirror Lake State Park is about 10 minutes outside of the heart of Wisconsin Dells. This park has 4 hiking trails ranging from .2 miles to about 2.5 miles. Many of these trails connect, allowing you to extend your hike and experience the sandstone cliffs and lush greenery. Mirror Lake also offers paved walking trails for a leisurely stroll. For information on hours and guidelines visit Wisconsin DNR's Mirror Lake State Park page.

Rocky Arbor State Park is about 5 minutes from downtown Wisconsin Dells. Experience the self-guided nature trail that will expose you to bird sounds, rock formations and more. For more information visit Wisconsin DNR's Rocky Arbor State Park page.

Hikers

Fishing

Grab your fishing poles and bait and catch local sturgeon, walleye, bass and more in one of Wisconsin Dells’ fishing spots. The Wisconsin River is home to some of the best fishing in Wisconsin. Fishers across the state visit the Wisconsin River each year to spend days on the water catching fish and enjoying the unique bluffs. There are a number of boat rental shops that make it easy to add fishing to your next Wisconsin Dells vacation. Don’t forget your fishing license! We have all the information you need to make your fishing trip a success in our Wisconsin Dells Fishing Guide

Beaches 

Wisconsin Dells beaches are a wonderful way to enjoy sunshine, water and family time. If you’re looking for a swimming beach, Devil’s Lake State Park has two sandy beaches that are always fan favorites. These beaches are well maintained with bathhouses, grilling spots, picnic areas and playgrounds for the kids.

There are a number of other local beaches to enjoy, including Land of NaturaNewport Park, Lake Delton Public Beach and Mirror Lake State Park.

Golfing

Golfing is a perfect way to unwind this summer and, lucky for you, Wisconsin Dells has six golf courses for you to enjoy. Book a tee time at one of our 9-hole, 18-hole or 27-hole championship golf courses. Explore all the courses and get course details in our Wisconsin Dells Golfing Guide.

Kayaking

Some of the best views of Wisconsin Dells can be seen from the water so kayaking is a great option. Bring your own or rent from local businesses like Vertical Illusions Zipline, Kayak & Rock Climbing Guided AdventuresDells Watersports: Full-Service Marina & Boat Rentals, or Holiday Shores Watersports. Paddle around Mirror Lake, Lake Delton or get up close and personal with towering sandstone bluffs on the Wisconsin River.
 

Kayaking in Wisconsin River

Camping, RVs, Cabins & Places to Stay

Wisconsin Dells has some of the state’s best resorts and hotels, but did you know we also have some of the best camping and cabin spots? These campgrounds and parks are perfect if you’re looking to have an outdoor adventure!

Camping

Wisconsin Dells campgrounds offer loads of amenities and attraction packages from a tent in the woods to full bathrooms, water, and daily activities. Some of the campgrounds are right on the water or offer man-made lakes and beaches.

If you’re looking for tent camping in the Dells, check out our Camping page. You’ll find all the best camping sites in the area as well as information about amenities, booking options and more. Happy camping!

RV Sites

Do you have an RV or a camper and want to find the best place to park it for your upcoming Wisconsin Dells trip? We have you covered. The Dells has plenty of campgrounds/RV parks for you to choose from! Many of the RV sites include full water and electric hookups and access to amenities like playgrounds, pools, boat rentals and more. Make sure to book ahead because these RV sites fill up fast! Visit our camping and RV page for all the location options and make sure to use the amenities filter on the left side to find the sites that fit your needs.

Cabins & Cottages

Cabins and cottages are a wonderful way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Wisconsin Dells has countless options for a cabin getaway. You can choose from cabins that are connected to some of the best waterparks and resorts or cabins that are more wooded and secluded. Cabins are a perfect option if you’re looking to have your own secluded space close to or in nature. Explore our cabins page for details on the best cabins in Wisconsin Dells.

Hammock Relaxing

Additional Outdoor Resources

Pet-friendly

Wisconsin Dells welcomes your pets! There are a number of pet-friendly hotels and resorts in the Dells that offer options just for you and your pet. You can also take fido to the beach or on the trails, check out Devil’s Lake’s Pet Guidelines.

Boat and Kayak Rentals

Whether you’re looking to fish or just enjoy the water, check out these locations to rent a boat or kayak:

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