Hartman Creek State Park

A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required for all vehicles entering Hartman Creek State Park. These can be purchased annually or daily at the park entrance or online through the Wisconsin DNR website. If you plan on camping, a separate camping reservation is also needed.

Yes, the park offers a diverse trail system catering to various skill levels. For an easy, scenic walk, consider trails around the lakes like Marl Lake or Allen Lake. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail section within the park offers a more moderate challenge with varied terrain, while the singletrack trails are popular with mountain bikers but can also be hiked for a more vigorous experience.

Beyond the beautiful spring-fed lakes, be sure to visit the Hellestad House, a restored 1864 log cabin that now serves as a nature center. The Whispering Pines Day Use Area on Marl Lake is also a notable spot, known for its clear, turquoise waters. The park's diverse landscapes, shaped by glacial activity, offer unique geological formations along the trails.

Absolutely! In winter, the park transforms into a popular destination for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. The extensive trail system is groomed for skiing, and the frozen lakes provide opportunities for ice fishing. Remember that the campground facilities, including flush toilets and showers, are closed seasonally from December 1st through April 1st.

Families will find plenty to do! Children can enjoy swimming at Hartman Lake's sandy beach, exploring easy hiking trails, and fishing from accessible piers on Allen Lake and Marl Lake. The park also hosts interpretive nature programs and events throughout the year, offering educational and engaging experiences for all ages.

Hartman Creek State Park is dog-friendly! Leashed dogs are generally welcome on most trails and in designated areas. However, they are typically not allowed in swimming areas, buildings, or certain designated nature areas. Always ensure your dog is on a leash no longer than 8 feet and that you clean up after them to maintain the park's natural beauty for everyone.

While the park itself offers camping facilities, there are no restaurants or cafes directly within Hartman Creek State Park. However, the nearby town of Waupaca, approximately six miles east, provides a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants, as well as several accommodation choices including hotels and motels.

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail section through Hartman Creek State Park is generally considered moderate. It winds through varied terrain, including rolling hills, mixed hardwood forests, and pine plantations, offering a good workout without being overly strenuous. Hikers should be prepared for some elevation changes and uneven surfaces, but it's accessible to most with a reasonable fitness level.

For stunning fall foliage, the best time to visit Hartman Creek State Park is typically from late September through mid-October. During this period, the park's diverse hardwood forests transform into vibrant displays of red, orange, and gold, making it an ideal time for scenic hikes and photography.

The park does not typically offer on-site kayak or watercraft rentals. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards to enjoy the park's many lakes. There may be private rental services available in the nearby Waupaca Chain O' Lakes area, which could be an option if you don't have your own equipment.

Hartman Creek State Park's diverse habitats support a rich array of wildlife. Visitors often spot white-tailed deer, various small mammals like squirrels and rabbits, and a wide variety of bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for waterfowl on the lakes and different songbirds in the forests.