As much as folks like to pretend like Wisconsin is nothing but farms and cows, we know there’s actually a ton to see and do here. But sometimes being so awesome comes at a cost: crowds. Wisconsin is so great that there are constantly people everywhere, basking in our state’s greatness.
If you need to escape the hustle and bustle and check out for a while to find a spot where your only company might be some mosquitoes, we’ve found some places for you.
1. Town of Eland
This tiny village near Shawano is one of Wisconsin's smallest - on record, anyway. Just 202 people call Eland home, meaning you're unlikely to find a crowd no matter which way you turn.
2. Schmeekle Reserve - Stevens Point
The best part about this reserve is that it's mostly wetlands, meaning you'll be far away from crowds of people, but pretty up close to a variety of birds and animals. Located at 2419 North Point Dr, Stevens Point, WI 54481.
3. Kettle Moraine Northern Unit - Campbellsport
The park's southern unit draws a lot of folks looking for a quick escape from Milwaukee, so if you're looking for elbow room, head north and see the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve. Headquarters located off Co Rd G, Campbellsport, WI 53010.
4. Harrington Beach State Park - Belgium
Folks tend to forget this place in favor of nearby Kohler-Andrae State Park, leaving lots more space for you to wander the mile-long beach on Lake Michigan or explore the white cedar swamp.
Located at 531 County Road D, Belgium, WI 53004.
5. Havenwoods State Forest- Milwaukee
This 237 acre forest on Milwaukee's northwest side is a serious idyll amid the craziness of the city. Created to ensure urban green space and education, it's aptly named as a haven in the state's biggest city. Located at 6141 N Hopkins St, Milwaukee, WI 53209.
6. Cave Point County Park - Sturgeon Bay
In the summer, there are probably not many places in Door County that aren't crowded, but something about being able to hear the waves of Lake Michigan splash and being soothed by feeling at the edge of the world makes this a good getaway regardless of season. Located at 5360 Schauer Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235.
7. Brown County Reforestation Camp - Green Bay
Crowd sizes may vary, but if you're looking to unwind, there's nothing like the rescued creatures at their NEW zoo to melt your heart - and your stress. With 1,600 acres and tons to do, it's easy to escape for a bit here.
Located at 4418 Reforestation Rd
Green Bay, WI 54313.
8. Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest - Rhinelander
Covering more than 1.5 million acres, if you can't find a way to get breathing room and a little lost here, you're doing something wrong. Located at 500 Hanson Lake Road, Rhinelander, WI 54501.
9. UW Arboretum - Madison
Finding pockets of solitude in a city packed onto an isthmus can be a bit tricky. The UW Arboretum definitely provides some quiet in the midst of a bustling college town. Located at 1207 Seminole Hwy
Madison, WI 53711.
10. Washington Island - Door County
When you need to take a boat to get there, the crowds really thin out. Heading to Washington Island feels like a much bigger excursion and escape from real life than the seven miles that separate it from the mainland.
11. LaCrosse River - LaCrosse
This tributary of the much more popular Mississippi River is great not only because it's a bit off the tourist path, but its fast current keeps it from freezing over easily, meaning you can be on the water well into the winter.
12. Lynden Sculpture Garden - Brown Deer
This outdoor sculpture park sits on 40 acres just north of Milwaukee and is a great place to find your creativity, empty your mind and be far, far away from the maddening crowds. Located at 2145 W Brown Deer Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53217.
It might defeat the purpose if you share, but where else do you like to go to find some peace and solitude?
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