While there are some regions of Wisconsin that have been always wild and beautiful, there are some scenic places that haven’t always been a sight to behold. In Eastern Wisconsin, a lesser-known Wisconsin State Park was once the site of a large and active rock quarry operation. Today, the blasting is long over. Now one of the best state parks in Wisconsin, Harrington Beach State Park is a place that offers a gorgeous stretch of beach that’s a short stroll from a pretty little waterfall. Here’s why you should make plans to visit this hidden waterfall beach in Wisconsin:

Back in the 1890s, a dolomite quarry operated along the shore of Lake Michigan. Workers removed tons of rock from the quarry over the next three decades. Eventually, the quarry closed – some buildings from a company town on site were moved – the rest of the property just lay in ruins.
Alltrails / Tina Davis
In 1968 the Department of Natural Resources began buying up the property to form a state park - Harrington Beach State Park. Today it’s a true treasure – one of the state’s wonderful properties on the Lake Michigan shore and one of the best parks in Wisconsin.
Alltrails / Michael Kern
There’s a lot to do in the 715-acre park. It’s a popular place for camping, hiking, bird watching, and picnicking.
Alltrails / Michael Kern

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Many visitors come for the Wisconsin park’s stunning mile-long beach. Stroll the beach and pick up driftwood, take a swim in the lake, or just relax on the beach and enjoy the view.
Alltrails / Michael Kern
But while you’re in the park, you’ll want to take in another attraction that’s very close to the beach. Pack your walking shoes – this short stroll is worth it.
Alltrails / Amber Salmon
There’s a 26-acre lake in the park that was once the old dolomite quarry. The lake is beautiful and clear, and it’s surrounded by a hiking trail. You may want to take some photos. On the north side of the trail, there’s a seasonal waterfall that you can actually walk over!
Alltrails / Rose Dorcey

A state park vehicle sticker is required to visit Harrington Beach State Park. Learn more about Harrington Beach State Park by visiting the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website. Want to turn your visit to the park into an overnight adventure? Check out Booking.com, where you’ll find an array of accommodation options, from cozy cabins to charming B&Bs.

So, did you know about this park? Ever visited? Know of any other spectacular state parks in Wisconsin? Tell us!

Once you’ve taken in the amazing Harrington Beach State Park, here are some more lesser-known state parks in Wisconsin that are worth seeking out.

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Harrington Beach State Park

Daniella DiRienzo | July 28, 2023

What are the most popular state parks in Wisconsin?

  • Mirror Lake State Park: Located in Baraboo, this park is located in the Wisconsin Dells region of the state and boasts over 2,000 acres of beautiful natural space. It’s most known for its namesake, Mirror Lake, a reservoir with steep sandstone walls that jut 50 feet in the air.
  • Devil's Lake State Park: Also located in Baraboo, this park just might be the most popular state park in Wisconsin – and rightfully so! It’s brimming with expansive beauty and radical rock faces.
  • Blue Mound State Park: Nestled in Blue Mounds, this park is home to the highest point in southern Wisconsin and boasts some of the most spectacular views in the state.

 

Aside from Harrington Beach State Park, what other parks are among the best parks in Wisconsin?

  • Menominee Park: Situated in Oshkosh, this is one of the largest and best parks in Wisconsin. This park is a whopping 109 acres, stretching along the shores of scenic Lake Winnebago. In addition to on-the-water fun, park-goers can enjoy train rides, interacting with the animals at the park’s zoo, and more.
  • Amnicon Falls State Park: Nestled in northern Wisconsin, this park is known for its series of waterfalls and rapids along the Amnicon River. Hiking trails abound throughout the park, making it easy to take in the picturesque sites.
  • Perrot State Park: Nestled along the Mississippi River, Perrot State Park provides scenic views, hiking trails, and bird-watching opportunities, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

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Featured Addresses
Harrington Beach State Park, 531 Co Rd D, Belgium, WI 53004, USA