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Pike Lake State Park adventures

Pike Lake State Park Adventures

Pike Lake State Park in Wisconsin offers scenic forested landscapes and a 446-acre lake, providing diverse outdoor recreation opportunities for visitors of all ages.

1,166
Acres Protected
8
Miles of Trails
150,000
Annual Visitors
1960
Year Established

About Pike Lake State Park

 

Pike Lake State Park is located near the city of Bristol in southeastern Wisconsin and encompasses about 1,166 acres centered around Pike Lake, a 446-acre spring-fed natural lake. The park features a mix of hardwood and pine forests, wetland areas, and open water habitats that support a diverse range of wildlife. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, swimming, and boating, while the surrounding forest offers well-maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. Visitors can explore the park’s ecological variety, including wetland plants, typical Midwest forest species, and a variety of birdlife. Historically, the area was utilized by Native American tribes and later developed as part of Wisconsin’s state park system to protect natural resources and provide public recreation. The park includes numerous amenities such as picnic areas, a beach, a campground with both modern and group sites, and a nature center. Throughout the year, the park hosts interpretive programs focused on natural history and conservation. Its accessible location near Milwaukee and Kenosha makes it a favored spot for day trips and family outings. Whether seeking a quiet hike through pine groves or an afternoon on the water, Pike Lake State Park offers balanced opportunities for outdoor enjoyment within an easy drive of urban centers.

Highlights

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Pike Lake Beach with sandy swimming area and picnic spots

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Scenic mixed hardwood and pine forests supporting diverse wildlife

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Popular fishing lake stocked with bass, panfish, and northern pike

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Multi-use trails offering hiking, mountain biking, and winter skiing

Notable Natural Features

Pike Lake

A natural 446-acre spring-fed lake offering clear water for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Pine and Hardwood Forests

Extensive forested areas featuring white and red pines alongside oak and maple trees.

Nature Center

Educational facility providing interpretive programs and exhibits about local ecology.