We are fortunate to live in a state with such a wide variety of natural beauty! Wisconsin’s Driftless Area, which covers much of southwestern Wisconsin, is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state. It’s no wonder that Wildcat Mountain State Park in Ontario, Wisconsin, is a favorite among Wisconsin State Park enthusiasts.
From paddling down the Kickapoo River to rustic family camping in the peace of nature to the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside, Wildcat Mountain State Park is calling your name for your next family adventure in nature!
History of Wildcat Mountain State Park
Prehistoric tribes for hunting first inhabited the Kickapoo River Valley became famous for logging, and finally gave way to ginseng farming as the crop grew well in this environment. Wildcat Mountain offers a taste of Wisconsin’s stunning driftless area. This area was not affected by the glacial ice sheet that covered the remainder of Wisconsin long ago. ‘Wildcat Mountain’ came from a hunting party that caught a sheep-menacing bobcat in the 1800s. The land eventually fell into the hands of a farming couple in 1915, and remnants of that farm are intact within the park today. The original donation of a 20-acre tract for the state park has grown to 3000+ acres for the public to enjoy.
Hiking Trails
Try Old Settler’s Trail (upland) or Hemlock Trail (near the river) to reach spectacular vistas of the surrounding area! Check out the park map to get a good lay of the land. Also, the Old Settler’s Trail becomes a snowshoe trail in the winter. If you’re more of a skier, there are also 7 miles of cross-country ski trails for you to enjoy when snow conditions are favorable. Make sure to check out the many observation points marked on the maps. Pack snacks or lunches to enjoy at one of the man picnic areas. Download maps
Camping
Wildcat Mountain Park offers three types of camping: the traditional family campground, including an accessible site; equestrian camping (horseback riding); and cart-in or hike-in rustic campsites. Check out the campground map to pick the best fit for your family!
Paddling on the Kickapoo River
Easily the highlight of Wildcat Mountain State Park, you MUST enjoy a kayak or canoe paddle while visiting! Feel the world’s worries drift away as you bob and weave along the Kickapoo River as it meanders through a peaceful, lush forest. Be sure to check out Kickapoo’s water level information to help you identify potential safety hazards on the river. Don’t own a canoe or kayak? Not to worry! You can rent them at several local businesses in the nearby Village of Ontario. Some even provide a shuttle service!
PS… if you want to get into more paddling closer to home, we highly recommend you visit Hartman Creek State Park and the beautiful Chain O’ Lakes right in our neck of the woods!
Nearby Adventure in Amish Land
The Cashton and Ontario, Wisconsin area is home to Wisconsin’s largest Amish population. Drive down one of the many hilly country roads nearby, and you’ll likely find many a family-run greenhouse, bakery, furniture store, cannery, etc. In our modern throw-away economy, there is refreshing beauty to behold in the realness of handmade goods.
Nearby Ice Cream & Pizza
- Country Corner Ice Cream Shoppe, 12652 Highway 33, Cashton
Enjoy a variety of Cedar Crest ice cream flavors in this unique collection of Amish-built shops. Also, a great place to purchase handmade goods by the local Amish families (you have to try the cashew crunch candy!) or take an Amish tour. - The Goose Barn, S2106 Valley Rd, La Farge
Does life get any better than eating pizza and ice cream surrounded by goats? If this isn’t a dream come true…
While in western Wisconsin, take a side trip to La Crosse for more driftless beauty in this historic river town!
Are you itching for more state park adventures? We’ve got you covered! Visit nearby Roche-A-Cri, Buckhorn, and Mill Bluff State Parks as you leave Wildcat Mountain.
