This Underrated Midwest State Park Is A Giant Outdoor Paradise Brimming With Crystal-Clear Lakes

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If you're a nature lover chasing the most beautiful lakes in the Midwest, you'll want to put a pin in central Wisconsin. Near the town of Waupaca, Hartman Creek State Park offers 1,500 acres of quiet landscapes and sparkling waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and more outdoor fun. Established in 1966, this park is near the expansive Chain O' Lakes region, which is known for its crystal clear lakes interconnected with the Fox River.​ And while Wisconsin has no shortage of state parks, Hartman Creek stands out for how refreshingly low-key it feels — an outdoor paradise without the crowds.

Before it became a state park in 1966, this land was part of George Allen's 19th-century homestead, where he raised trout, grew beer hops, and ran a dairy operation. The park is also home to the historic Hellestad House, a restored 19th-century log cabin built by early settlers.

Today, the park is filled with hardwood forests, pine plantations, and spring-fed lakes — all teeming with wildlife. The adjacent Whispering Pines area also offers a peaceful retreat in a pine forest with access to Marl Lake — known for turquoise waters reminiscent of the most stunning beaches found along the Gulf Coast. A stone staircase leads visitors to a secluded pier, perfect for a refreshing swim and relaxing on the shore. ​​Whether you're wanting to get out on the water in the summertime or hit the hiking trails to see the best fall colors and activities Wisconsin has to offer, Hartman Creek State Park offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure year-round.​

Hikers will have a blast in the park — it has over 10 miles of hiking trails, including the scenic Deer Path Trail around Allen Lake and the Dike Trail around Hartman Lake, both an easy mile-long loop. The Whispering Pines hiking trails aren't attached to the park itself, so visitors can get to these via Marl Lake at the pier or from the parking lot off of Whispering Pines Road. The Oak Ridge Trail System is longer, with just under 5 miles through forests and hilly terrain. Part of the famous Ice Age Trail also crosses the park — this 1,200-mile long trail system traces remnants of glacial landscape features created over 12,000 years ago, a must-do activity for any geology geeks.

Mountain bikers can hit 12 miles of trails winding through the scenic woodlands, and equestrians have access to about 7 miles of horse trails through forests, fields, and orchards.  Fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are all fun ways to get out on the lake, and some of the area's lakes (such as Marl and Pope) allow gas boats traveling at a low speed. Just check ahead of time for launch sites and restrictions. 

During the warmer months, the sandy beach on Hartman Lake is a popular place for swimming and sunbathing. There are picnic tables and bathrooms nearby, with plenty of lawn space for spreading out. (Just don't forget the essentials, like this extra large waterproof and foldable picnic blanket.) The Whispering Pines day-use area also offers parking, picnic tables, grills, and bathrooms, making it a great spot for family gatherings. Larger groups can reserve one of the park's three shelter areas, which have water, electrical hookups, and lakefront views.

Hartman Creek State Park is just an hour and fifteen minutes from Green Bay and about two hours from Madison. So it's an easy day trip, whether you're a cheese lover on a foodie road trip through Wisconsin or just trying to get away from the city and into nature. The park is open year-round from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. To enter, you'll need a Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission sticker, which can be purchased as a daily or annual pass — the price of a day pass is $13 for Wisconsinites and $16 for visitors from out of state. If you're planning to bike, ski, or horseback ride, anyone 16 or older will also need a state trail pass, which costs just $5 per day. You can get both passes online or at the park office.

Camping is no problem, with 103 sites, including ones with electric hookups, plus showers, toilets, and firewood available on-site. The campground is super close to trails and the lake, so campers don't have to go far to fully enjoy the park's natural beauty. If you're bringing pets, they're more than welcome but they must be leashed and under control at all times. Some areas, like the designated swimming beach, may be off-limits to dogs, so check signage and park rules before you go.