Governor Dodge State Park is a standout among Wisconsin State Parks, especially during the warmer months. Tucked into the rolling hills of Wisconsin’s Driftless Region near Dodgeville, this expansive park offers more than 5,000 acres of rugged beauty, two lakes, scenic rock formations, and miles of hiking and biking trails. It’s one of the best state parks in Wisconsin for summer adventures, whether you’re cooling off with a swim at Twin Valley Beach, kayaking across Cox Hollow Lake, or hiking to hidden waterfalls along Pine Cliff Trail.
With over 40 miles of hiking trails in Wisconsin to choose from, Governor Dodge is a favorite for those who love exploring on foot and soaking up the best of Wisconsin’s natural beauty. While Governor Dodge is a destination in its own right, there are plenty more things to do in Wisconsin this summer, including visiting other top-rated state parks. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the dramatic bluffs and beachside fun of Devil’s Lake State Park, or you can head north to explore Peninsula State Park along the Door County shoreline. Whether you’re looking for the best hikes in Wisconsin or hoping to canoe the Lower Wisconsin River, nothing beats a summer adventure in Wisconsin.
When it’s time to get off the trails, you’ll find there are plenty more cultural gems all across Wisconsin to enjoy. This includes major attractions like the American Players Theatre, architectural landmarks such as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin, and quirky must-sees like House on the Rock. With so many hiking destinations and summer experiences packed into this region, you’ll find it’s an exceptional place to land this summer, whether you’re exploring as a couple, enjoying a solo hiking trip, traveling with your kids, or even bringing along your pets.
After a full day outdoors, there’s nothing better than returning to one of our top-rated Bed and Breakfasts in Wisconsin. The Midwest Association of Independent Inns features locally owned, one-of-a-kind properties near Governor Dodge State Park and throughout the state. From historic homes with chef-prepared breakfasts to modern retreats in quiet towns, these Boutique Inns offer the ideal mix of comfort, hospitality, and authenticity. Whether you’re in Dodgeville, Spring Green, or beyond, these unique places to stay in Wisconsin are the perfect complement to your upcoming adventure. Book your Wisconsin adventure today!
Visit Governor Dodge State Park This Summer
Governor Dodge State Park is one of the largest and most diverse Wisconsin State Parks, covering over 5,000 acres of scenic terrain in the state’s unique Driftless Area. Located just outside of Dodgeville, this stunning Wisconsin State Park offers a rugged landscape shaped by ancient geological forces. Unlike much of the Midwest, which was flattened by glaciers, places like Governor Dodge State Park were left untouched, resulting in dramatic bluffs, rolling hills, deep valleys, and a rich mix of hardwood forests and sandstone formations.
There’s no shortage of things to do at Governor Dodge State Park, especially in the summer. The park features two lakes: Cox Hollow and Twin Valley, each with its own beach for swimming and a boat launch for kayaking, canoeing, or fishing. Soak up some Vitamin D while paddling across the quiet water or casting a line for bass, panfish, or northern pike, and you’ll have a quintessential Wisconsin adventure at your fingertips.
Governor Dodge is also home to two waterfalls, Stephens’ Falls and the seasonal Deer Spring Falls, both reachable via scenic hiking trails. The combination of water features and forested trails makes this one of the best Wisconsin State Parks for cooling off on a hot day or enjoying a peaceful day on the water. If you’d rather explore by land, the park has over 40 miles of hiking trails in Wisconsin’s Driftless Region, many leading to hidden viewpoints, sandstone outcrops, and those beautiful waterfalls.
Governor Dodge State Park is one of the best hiking destinations in the state, with trails ranging from easy lakeside loops to more challenging bluff climbs. Cyclists can take advantage of 8 miles of mountain biking trails, including two routes designated specifically for bikes, or connect to the nearby Military Ridge State Trail, which stretches 40 miles through scenic farmland and small towns. You’ll need state trail passes to bike these trails. Horseback riders are also welcome on designated trails at Governor Dodge State Park.
Regardless of what your plan for adventure is at Governor Dodge State Park, you’ll find a Wisconsin State Parks vehicle sticker. Daily passes are available for $13 – $16, depending on whether you’re a Wisconsin State resident or not, while an annual pass grants access to all WI State Parks for $28 for residents, and $38 for out-of-state residents. Whether you’re in it for the views, the trails, or the lakes, Governor Dodge offers one of the best all-around outdoor experiences in the Midwest.
9 More Great Wisconsin State Parks to Visit
Governor Dodge State Park is one of the many excellent state parks in Wisconsin that are worth visiting this summer. Wisconsin’s State Parks offer a diverse array of beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, winding rivers, and stunning freshwater lakes. They are more than beautiful, though. Wisconsin State Parks also serve as an excellent place for outdoor recreation, including hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, and more.
Let Governor Dodge State Park inspire you, then get out and explore the beautiful state at all of these amazing Wisconsin State Parks. We’ve listed a few more of our favorite spots below.
- Devils Lake State Park in Baraboo is the most popular State Park in Wisconsin. From the beautiful blue hues of Devil’s Lake to the towering quartzite cliffs surrounding it, there are plenty of ways to explore this stunning Wisconsin State Park.
- Wildcat Mountain State Park is another gem in the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. This park overlooks the Kickapoo River, offering beautiful views of the river below and miles of excellent hiking and biking trails.
- Perrot State Park, near Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mississippi River. It’s a beautiful place for hiking, but with more than 200 bird species passing through this area each year, it’s also one of the best birdwatching spots in the Midwest.
- The Kettle Moraine State Forest is one of the most popular places to hike in Wisconsin and offers plenty of opportunities to extend your journey on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
- Hike along the stunning St. Croix River at the popular Interstate State Park in St. Croix Falls, and you’ll see why this tops our list of Wisconsin State Parks worth visiting this summer. Stick around for fall colors in Wisconsin, and the adventure gets even more scenic!
- Willow River State Park is home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Wisconsin and is a quiet, scenic place to spend your afternoon.
- One of the many hidden gems among Wisconsin State Parks is Rib Mountain State Park in Wausau. Not only is the park home to the popular Granite Peak Ski Area in the winter, but it also offers excellent hiking opportunities and stunning views of the town of Wausau below, particularly from the observation tower during the summer.
- Door County’s popular Peninsula State Park is nothing short of spectacular. It’s the state’s second most popular park, offering great biking on the Sunset Trail and hiking along the Niagara Escarpment, as well as kayaking offshore.
- Big Bay State Park, located on an island and reachable only by ferry from Bayfield, is one of the state’s best-kept secrets. This Wisconsin State Park offers incredible vistas of the state’s untamed wilderness and a panoramic view of Lake Superior.
Discover The Best Places to Stay in Wisconsin
After a full day of hiking, biking, or paddling at Governor Dodge State Park or any of the other incredible Wisconsin State Parks, there’s nothing better than returning to a place that feels like home. The Midwest Association of Independent Inns offers some of the best places to stay in Wisconsin, with thoughtfully appointed guest rooms, warm hospitality, and locations that keep you close to your favorite outdoor adventures. These locally owned Inns go the extra mile to ensure your stay is comfortable, relaxing, and memorable.
With a wide variety of properties across the state, you’ll find lodging options to suit every type of traveler. From romantic getaways for two to spacious suites for group trips or solo retreats, there’s something for everyone. Many of these Inns are also pet-friendly, so your four-legged hiking buddy doesn’t have to miss out on the fun. Whether you’re exploring the waterfalls and trails of Governor Dodge, kayaking along the shoreline at Peninsula State Park, or enjoying the views at Devil’s Lake, you’ll find a perfectly located Inn nearby to help you recharge between adventures.
Summer is in full swing in Wisconsin, and there’s never been a better time to get outside and explore what’s right here in your back yard. As the seasons change and Wisconsin’s fall colors transform the landscapes, these Wisconsin State Parks will get even more spectacular. Don’t wait until we’re all booked up, though. Now is the perfect time to find the lodging that fits your plans. These exceptional Bed and Breakfasts are the ideal home base for all the best hikes, paddles, and scenic drives Wisconsin has to offer. Book your Wisconsin trip today!
