Beach at High Cliff State Park

For Wisconsin locals seeking an unparalleled outdoor experience that combines breathtaking views, rich history, and diverse recreational opportunities, High Cliff State Park in Sherwood, WI, stands out as a true jewel. As the only state-owned recreational area on the majestic Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin's largest inland lake, High Cliff offers a unique blend of natural beauty and engaging activities for every type of adventurer. While some visitors might find the beach area modest, the park's expansive offerings, from miles of trails along the dramatic Niagara Escarpment to diverse camping options, make it a premier destination for families, hikers, and nature lovers alike. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to High Cliff State Park, highlighting its stunning location, the array of services it provides, its many features, and why it remains a cherished spot for residents across the Badger State.

High Cliff State Park is prominently located at N7630 State Park Rd, Sherwood, WI 54169, USA. This address places it directly on the northeastern shore of Lake Winnebago, offering spectacular views across the vast expanse of water. The park gets its name from the impressive limestone cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment, which forms a striking geological backbone along its eastern edge, providing elevated vistas that are truly unforgettable. Accessibility to High Cliff State Park is excellent for Wisconsin residents. It's conveniently situated a short drive from major Fox Valley cities like Appleton (approximately 18 minutes), Oshkosh (around 28 minutes), and Green Bay (about 37 minutes), making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway destination from various parts of the state. The well-maintained road network ensures a smooth journey to the park entrance, where a vehicle admission sticker is required for entry. Once inside, the park's layout allows for relatively easy navigation to its various features, from the campground to the lookout tower and hiking trailheads, ensuring that visitors can maximize their time enjoying the stunning natural environment.

High Cliff State Park offers a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance the outdoor experience for all its visitors, particularly those staying overnight. The park aims to provide essential comforts while maintaining its natural integrity.

• Family Campground: The park features 112 family campsites, providing diverse options for campers. Of these, 32 sites offer electric hook-ups (20/30 amp service), catering to RVs and those needing power. Two accessible sites are also available.
• Group Campsites: Eight dedicated group campsites are available, perfect for larger gatherings and organizations.
• Accessible Cabin: An accessible cabin for people with disabilities is available for rent from May through mid-October, accommodating up to six people for a maximum of four nights per year.
• Flush Toilet/Shower Building: Located in the family campground, providing modern restroom facilities and hot showers for overnight guests. This building is typically open seasonally from May to mid-October.
• Vault Toilets: Several vault toilets are situated throughout the campground and park for convenience in more remote areas.
• Sanitary Dump Station: Available and free to use for all registered campers, with a $10 fee for non-campers.
• Recycling/Garbage Station: Designated areas for waste disposal to encourage cleanliness and environmental responsibility.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase at the park office during open hours, with strict regulations against bringing outside firewood to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
• Picnic Areas and Shelters: Numerous picnic areas with tables and grills are scattered throughout the park, including reservable shelters for larger groups.
• Concession Stand/General Store: Located at the marina harbor house (open seasonally), offering food, beverages, ice, and general camping/boating supplies.
• Marina Services: Over 100 boat slips for rent, crane service, winter storage, and premium gas available.
• Campground Hosts: Present on-site from April through October to assist campers and answer questions.
• Pet-Friendly Areas: Pets are permitted in family and group campgrounds (on leash) and a specific pet picnic area and pet swim area are available.

The features and highlights of High Cliff State Park are truly captivating, drawing visitors back year after year to explore its unique blend of natural wonders and recreational opportunities.

• Niagara Escarpment Views: The park is set atop a dramatic limestone cliff, offering stunning panoramic vistas of Lake Winnebago and the surrounding landscape from various lookout points and a 40-foot observation tower.
• Extensive Trail System: Over 16 miles of trails cater to various activities, including hiking, biking (on Red Bird Trail and horse/bike trail), horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Trails range from easy, accessible loops (like Butterfly Pond Trail) to more challenging climbs.
• Indian Mound Trail and Effigy Mounds: Explore centuries-old Native American effigy mounds, including a panther mound and conical mounds, providing a rich historical and cultural experience.
• Statue of Chief Red Bird: A prominent 12-foot statue of the Winnebago (Ho-Chunk) leader overlooks Lake Winnebago from atop a granite rock.
• Lake Winnebago Access: The only state park on Wisconsin's largest inland lake, offering four boat launches and an accessible fishing platform, popular for various water activities.
• Small Beach Area: While noted by some visitors as being small and down a steep hill, it offers a place for swimming (unattended) with a nearby shower house and a designated pet swim area.
• Playgrounds: Multiple play areas for children, including a universal playground.
• Historical Significance: The park encompasses ruins of old lime kilns and a general store building, remnants of its past as a quarrying and amusement park site.
• Wildlife and Birdwatching: Opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of birds, especially during migration seasons for warblers, pelicans, herons, and eagles.
• Picnic Areas: Abundant shaded picnic spots with lake views, ideal for family outings.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about High Cliff State Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: N7630 State Park Rd, Sherwood, WI 54169, USA

Phone: (920) 989-1106

For campsite reservations, it's recommended to use the Wisconsin DNR's online reservation system or call their central reservation line, typically available through the DNR website.

High Cliff State Park is truly a fantastic choice for Wisconsin locals seeking a versatile and enriching outdoor experience. Its unique position as the sole state park on Lake Winnebago, combined with the dramatic topography of the Niagara Escarpment, offers a landscape unlike any other in the state. While the beach might not be the park's primary draw for everyone, the sheer breadth of other activities more than compensates. From the extensive network of hiking, biking, and horse trails that cater to all skill levels, to the historical significance of the effigy mounds and lime kiln ruins, there's a wealth of exploration to be done. The diverse camping options, including electric sites and an accessible cabin, make it welcoming for various types of visitors, and the pet-friendly policies ensure that the whole family can enjoy the adventure. For any Wisconsinite looking for stunning scenic views, engaging outdoor recreation, and a deep dive into the state's natural and cultural heritage, High Cliff State Park offers an accessible, clean, and endlessly fascinating destination right in their own beautiful backyard.

Beach at High Cliff State Park

n7630 State Park Rd, Sherwood, WI 54169, USA