Appreciate natural beauty this summer — tour destinations with ‘Wisconsin Life’!

June 23, 2025 Mike DeVine Leave a Comment

Take time to unplug from the routine of daily life and connect with nature this summer with Wisconsin Life!

These stories from some of the Badger State’s “wildest” destinations — nature centers and state parks — will inspire you to stock up your day packs with plenty of sunscreen and water for that trip you’ve been meaning to take!

Explore nature and fun at Pringle Nature Center

This nonprofit dedicated to putting people in touch with nature is housed in Bristol Woods Park. Check out the interactive ways you can discover, learn about and engage with the natural world.

Flutter along at the Butterfly Gardens of Wisconsin

Spread your wings in Appleton at the Butterfly Gardens of Wisconsin, a nonprofit preserve celebrating the vibrant insects. The seven-acre complex offers visitors a serene backdrop to learn about pollinators and the native plants they need to survive, while preserving 40 different butterfly species native to Outagamie County.

Take a trip to Wyalusing State Park

Journey to Wyalusing State Park, one of Wisconsin’s oldest parks, to check out the hiking trails, river access and cliffside camping. Speak with park ranger April Ammann about the park’s beautiful views and effigy mounds and Kyle Kern about the Starsplitters of Wyalusing. The non-profit organization provides views of the night sky through large telescopes.

Visit the Native Wellness Garden

This urban garden in Milwaukee run by the Gerald L. Ignace Indian Health Center operates sustainable agriculture in a growing space supporting First Nation communities.

Camp, Swim, Fish or Boat at Yellowstone Lake State Park

Good fishing, beautiful scenery and accessible hikes are all waiting at Yellowstone Lake State Park.

Paddle the Bois Brule River

Paddle down the calmer, southern portion of the Bois Brule River in Douglas County. Accompanied by local guides Dennis Bowen and Aaron Carlson, learn how the river got its nickname “The River of Presidents.”

Hike along Mariners Trail

Judy Corrado would be the first to admit she knows “zero” about gardening and yet she oversees 50 volunteer gardens along the Lake Michigan Mariners Trail including her own adopted garden. See how her grand idea blossomed into a success story for Manitowoc and Two Rivers.

Frolic through the flowers at Schuster’s Farm

Frolic through the blossoming fields of vibrant flowers at Schuster’s Farm in Deerfield. Meet with Sarah Schuster and learn about the family farm and the joy it brings visitors each year.

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