Tucked away in the beautiful Chain O’ Lakes in Wisconsin is a cute, remote little state park that definitely doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Of course, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing; instead of a crowded, bustling place, this particular out-of-the-way little gem is primarily a quiet, calm slice of paradise unlike any other in the state (or the nation). Often overlooked for much more famous state parks in the United States, Hartman Creek State Park is much-beloved among the locals for reasons that become increasingly obvious the more you explore. Check out this amazing state park in Wisconsin, and plan your escape ASAP!

Fun fact: there are 66 incredible state parks in Wisconsin.
Susan Ruggles/Flickr
This is pretty amazing, considering that states with much higher annual visitor numbers - like Arizona - tend to have significantly fewer than this. Wisconsin is, then, an obvious outdoorsman's dream.
Hartman Creek State Park is nestled in central Wisconsin along the creek it's named for.
garyhD778IG/TripAdvisor
There's a lake on the grounds - Marl Lake is easily one of the most beautiful lakes in Wisconsin and makes for an idyllic escape.
There are plenty of fun things to do while you're here.
Joshua Mayer/Flickr
Lovers of the water will enjoy the classics - everything from kayaking to canoeing and paddling and everything in between. Camping, biking, and hiking are also very popular.

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Swimming is, of course, another popular option. The water is always so pristinely perfect.
Ben Sheets/Flickr
The park is open year-round, though you probably won't want to swim year-round for obvious reasons.
But even when it's cold outside in the dead of winter, it's still worth a visit.
Joshua Mayer/Flickr
Popular cold-weather activities at Hartman Creek State Park include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even snowmobiling!
In the fall, the entire park comes alight with brilliant, fiery color that you can't afford to miss.
Dave/Flickr
It's easily one of the most photogenic places in Wisconsin no matter what time of year you show up, but autumn will always have a special place in our hearts... especially here.
Enjoy sunset - or sunrise - over the lake, roast some s'mores at night, and craft yourself the perfect campfire.
Susan Ruggles/Flickr
This is one awesome little piece of heaven you'll want to revisit again and again.

If you’d like to stay a while, we don’t blame you; choose from any of the 103 sites at the family campground available, or check out one of the five wonderful group camping sites. Campgrounds are closed from December 1 until April 1, so please plan accordingly (Hartman Creek State Park is still open to visitors during these months). The park is open every day from 6 a.m. until 11 p.m. A vehicle admission sticker must be purchased and can be purchased for just one day or as annual passes.

What are your all-time favorite state parks in Wisconsin? Have you ever heard of this out-of-the-way delight? Let us know! And whenever you head out to one of our wonderful Wisconsin state parks, be sure to bring AllTrails Plus along with you, so you’ll have easy navigation right at your fingertips.

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Featured Addresses
Hartman Creek State Park, N2480 Hartman Creek Rd, Waupaca, WI 54981, USA