A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
There’s nothing quite like a Wisconsin summer spent on the water. From action-packed afternoons to peaceful, scenic escapes, every outing offers something a little different. As the season approaches, now is the perfect time to start planning the water experiences you won’t want to miss.
Land of Natura – Wisconsin Dells
For families looking to mix outdoor adventure with all-day fun, Land of Natura in the Wisconsin Dells offers a different kind of waterpark experience. Set in a natural landscape, it blends sandy beaches, inflatable obstacle courses, and wide-open space to explore.
It’s the kind of place that turns into a full-day outing. Be sure to get a visit on your calendar so you don’t miss out on slides, nutritious food options, snorkeling, and plenty of family fun.
Devil’s Lake State Park – Baraboo
One of Wisconsin’s most iconic outdoor destinations, Devil’s Lake delivers the ultimate summer combo: hiking and swimming in one place. Spend the morning on the bluff trails, then cool off in cool water surrounded by dramatic rock formations.
Visit in early summer to beat the crowds and take in the transition to Wisconsin’s warmer months.
Pine River – Waushara County
If your version of a perfect getaway is slower and quieter, the Pine River offers a peaceful escape. Known for excellent wild brown trout and native brook trout fishing, it’s the kind of place where early mornings and steady water set the pace.
Summer is prime time here, making now the right moment to start mapping out a relaxing weekend. Don’t miss the river’s 17 miles of Class II trout streams.
Fox River – Princeton
Some of the best summer memories start with a simple plan: grab a few friends and hit the river. The Fox River tubing route at The Ice Bowl is an easy, laid-back float where the only agenda is to relax and enjoy the current. Afterward, keep the day going with ice cream or a casual drink.
In Wisconsin, summer doesn’t last long, and the best days on the water go fast. From family adventures to laid-back floats with friends or quiet solo escapes, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of it. Whether you’re coordinating schedules or simply circling a date on the calendar, a little early planning goes a long way. Don’t wait to start mapping out your perfect Wisconsin summer.
Josie Bartol is a Marketing Specialist and Project Manager at Discover Mediaworks. Watch the show online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin).
