If you’ve spent some time traveling around Wisconsin, you’ve probably driven right past today’s feature destination. Midway between Eau Claire and Madison, Mill Bluff State Park isn’t close to any big city but it’s worth seeking out. The park is home to towering rock formations that are simply stunning. A small spring-fed lake and some scenic trails complete the experience and make this state park a must-visit.

Here’s what you need to know about Mill Bluff State Park.

The 1,300-acre park is located near Camp Douglas in Monroe and Juneau Counties. It was established in 1936, but humans were here a long time before this was a park. There was once a sawmill at this location and long before that Native Americans were here - some left petroglyphs on the rocks.

AllTrails / Malissa Kulick

The park has some scenic trails that will take you through the forest and past some of the formations.

AllTrails / Meg H

There are some stunning views in the park. From the top of the bluff, you can see for miles.

AllTrails / Zack Hillis

The park’s unique rock formations were caused by an ancient glacial lake that was here 12,000 years ago. The lake was up to 80 feet deep in this area so the rocks were islands surrounded by water - the waves eroded them into interesting shapes.

AllTrails / Mark Krueger

Old stone steps will take you up the bluff. There are 223 steps here - they were constructed by the Works Progress Administration in the 1930s.

AllTrails / Zack Hillis

Interpretive signs tell the story of this place and some benches provide a nice spot to relax and take in the scenery.

AllTrails / Zack Hillis

On warm days, a small spring-fed lake is a pleasant place for a swim. There’s a sand beach at the lake and if you feel like staying here for a while, there are some campsites nearby.

AllTrails / Liene K

The park is located on both sides of Interstate 90-94. To get to the park, take the Oakdale exit 48 or Camp Douglas exit 55 to U.S. Highway 12/16 and follow the signs to the park. Once you’ve spent some time in this amazing park, here are some other amazing places you should explore.

AllTrails / Malissa Kulick

AllTrails / Meg H

AllTrails / Zack Hillis

AllTrails / Mark Krueger

AllTrails / Liene K

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Address: Mill Bluff State Park, 15819 Funnel Rd, Camp Douglas, WI 54618, USA