Right smack dab in the middle of the state is a cluster of state-owned lands that are just waiting for you to discover them. Hartman Creek State Park, Emmons Creek Barrons State Natural Area and Fishery, and Pope Lake State Natural Area are all connected to provide more than 2,000 acres of protected lands in the Chain O’Lakes area of the state. Because the area is so vast and there’s so much to do, you can hike for hours here without encountering another person.

Hartman Creek State Park has a number of trails throughout, with some designated for hiking, some for biking and some for horses. This wide variety of trails spreads throughout the park and even weaves in and among the numerous lakes here.
Wikipedia
One of the very best paths takes you all the way around Hartman Lake, including on the small strip of land between Hartman and Mid Lakes.
All Trails/JA
If you head on the part of Dike Trail that leaves from the horse parking area and heads north before turning east to go around Hartman Lake, you'll find a nice, easy hike that's about two miles long. And near the end, you'll come to the Hartman Lake beach.
Wikipedia
Or you can park at the beach and start out from there to end up back home after the loop, tired and ready to cool off.
All Trails/JA

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The beach is a wonderful payoff at the end of your hike. After you've worked up a sweat and seen the lake from every angle, cool down, relax and take a dip.
Flickr/WIDNR
If you're up for more hiking, part of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail also runs through Hartman Creek State Park.
Flickr/AmyBayer
But if nice and leisurely is more your speed, you won't want to miss this gorgeous, scenic and simple hike around Hartman Lake that lets you see the water at nearly every turn.
Flickr/AmyBayer
There's so much to do at this park - bring your fishing pole or plan to camp. Then set out to explore the beautiful trails here.
WIDNR
There's nothing but serenity to be found at this calming and relaxing park that lets you leisurely explore before ending up at the beach for a dip. It's the perfect combination of hiking and relaxation.
Flickr/AmyBayer

Hartman Creek State Park is located at N2480 Hartman Creek Rd., Waupaca, WI 54981.

Have you spent any time at Hartman Creek State Park? Let us know about it in the comments!

Looking for another peaceful state park experience? Check out The Gorgeous Natural Oasis In Wisconsin That You Can Only Visit On Foot.

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