Dog Swim & Picnic Areas in Wisconsin State Parks

Pet Swim & Picnic Areas in Wisconsin State Parks

Looking for a fun summer activity to do with your furry friend? Look no further than Wisconsin state parks! With plenty of pet-friendly swim and picnic areas, you and your dog can enjoy the great outdoors and beat the heat. Download a free map of these areas near you and start planning your next adventure.

Swimming and hiking with your dog is a fantastic opportunity to bond with your furry friend while enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes. Many of our Wisconsin State parks offer dog-friendly swim & picnic areas, where your dog can cool off in the refreshing waters of the lakes, rivers, and streams. In addition, our State Parks offer a vast network of hiking trails, which provide an excellent opportunity for you and your dog to explore the park's natural beauty. With many dog-friendly trails to choose from, you can enjoy scenic walks through dense forests, along winding rivers, and up steep inclines. Hiking and swimming with your dog is not only a great way to exercise and stay healthy but also an excellent way to build a stronger bond between you and your furry friend. We put together this downloadable map & guide of our favorite places to Picnic & Swim with your dog in our Wisconsin State Parks.

 Kelly's Little Etsy Shop created a map of pet swim and picnic areas in Wisconsin State Parks. Right click on the map to download. 

Dog Friendly Picnic Areas:

1. Copper Falls State Park

Copper Falls State Park is a beautiful and serene natural area located in northern Wisconsin, USA. The park is renowned for its impressive waterfalls, picturesque hiking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors to Copper Falls State Park can explore the park's many scenic hiking trails, which wind their way through old-growth forests, past rocky cliffs, and over rushing streams. The park's main attraction is the stunning Copper Falls, a majestic waterfall that cascades 30 feet into a deep gorge below. Other notable features of the park include Brownstone Falls, Red Granite Falls, and the scenic overlooks of Tyler Forks River. With its stunning natural beauty and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, Copper Falls State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Wisconsin.

Dog area is adjacent to the main picnic area

2. Devil’s Lake State Park

Devil's Lake State Park is a breathtaking natural area located in southern Wisconsin, USA. The park is named after its centerpiece, Devil's Lake, a stunning body of water surrounded by towering cliffs and lush forests. Visitors to Devil's Lake State Park can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and boating. The park's trails offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape, and hikers can choose from a variety of difficulty levels and distances. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, the park also has picnic areas and scenic drives. In addition to its natural beauty, Devil's Lake State Park is also rich in history, with Native American artifacts and geological features dating back millions of years. With its stunning views, diverse recreational opportunities, and rich history, Devil's Lake State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Wisconsin

Dog area on the north shore near the east bluff trailhead adjacent to the back parking lots

3 Flambeau River State Forest

Flambeau River State Forest is a picturesque natural area located in northern Wisconsin, USA. The forest is renowned for its stunning river and lake views, expansive trail system, and abundant wildlife. Visitors to Flambeau River State Forest can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, hunting, and wildlife watching. The forest's trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and hikers can choose from a variety of difficulty levels and distances. The Flambeau River is a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking, with numerous access points and campsites available for overnight trips. The forest is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, wolves, bald eagles, and river otters. With its scenic beauty, abundant recreational opportunities, and rich wildlife, Flambeau River State Forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Dog area at Connors Lake

4. Governor Dodge State Park

Governor Dodge State Park is a stunning natural area located in southern Wisconsin, USA. The park is named after Henry Dodge, the first governor of the Wisconsin Territory, and covers over 5,000 acres of forested hills, meadows, and scenic bluffs. Visitors to Governor Dodge State Park can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and swimming. The park's trail system offers over 40 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, including the challenging and scenic Mineral Point and Stephens Falls trails. The park's two lakes, Cox Hollow and Twin Valley, are popular destinations for swimming, boating, and fishing. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and turkeys, and offers ample opportunities for wildlife watching and photography. With its diverse recreational opportunities, stunning natural beauty, and rich history, Governor Dodge State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Wisconsin.

Dog area is next to the Cox Hollow swimming beach

5. Governor Thompson State Park

Governor Thompson State Park is a beautiful natural area located in northeastern Wisconsin, USA. The park covers over 2,800 acres of forested hills, meadows, and wetlands, and is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life. Visitors to Governor Thompson State Park can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The park's trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the scenic Peshtigo River, which flows through the park. The park's two lakes, Woods Lake and Twin Lake, are popular destinations for swimming, boating, and fishing. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, eagles, and ospreys, and offers ample opportunities for wildlife watching and photography. With its scenic beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and rich wildlife, Governor Thompson State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Dog area is by Woods Lake picnic area

6. Harrington Beach State Park

Harrington State Beach is a beautiful and secluded natural area located on the shores of Lake Michigan in southeastern Wisconsin, USA. The beach is known for its soft sand, clear water, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Visitors to Harrington State Beach can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and hiking. The park's trails wind their way through scenic forests and along the rugged shoreline, offering visitors a chance to explore the park's natural beauty up close. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and foxes, and offers ample opportunities for wildlife watching and photography. With its peaceful atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and diverse recreational opportunities, Harrington State Beach is a must-visit destination.

Dog area is near south beach

7. High Cliff State Park

High Cliff State Park is a stunning natural area located on the northeastern shore of Lake Winnebago in eastern Wisconsin, USA. The park covers over 1,100 acres of forested hills, scenic cliffs, and meadows, and is home to a variety of plant and animal life. Visitors to High Cliff State Park can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The park's trails wind their way through scenic forests and along the rugged shoreline, offering visitors stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The park's marina provides easy access to Lake Winnebago, which is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles, ospreys, and deer, and offers ample opportunities for wildlife watching and photography. With its scenic beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and rich wildlife, High Cliff State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Dog area is in the lower park, near the park office, near the pavilion

8. Interstate State Park

Interstate State Park is a breathtaking natural area located on the banks of the St. Croix River in western Wisconsin, USA. The park covers over 1,300 acres of forested hills, scenic cliffs, and rock formations, and is home to a variety of plant and animal life. Visitors to Interstate State Park can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and rock climbing. The park's trails wind their way through scenic forests and along the rugged shoreline of the St. Croix River, offering visitors stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape. The park's unique geology, including glacial potholes and basalt rock formations, provides ample opportunities for rock climbing and exploring. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles, falcons, and deer, and offers ample opportunities for wildlife watching and photography. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and unique geology, Interstate State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Dog area In the second loop of the River Bottoms Area

9. Pattison State Park

Pattison State Park is a fantastic natural area located in northern Wisconsin, USA. The park is home to Big Manitou Falls, which at 165 feet, is the highest waterfall in Wisconsin. The park's trails offer stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape, and visitors can choose from a variety of difficulty levels and distances. In addition to Big Manitou Falls, the park is also home to Little Manitou Falls, which cascades over a series of rocky steps. The park's two lakes, Pattison and Interfalls, are popular destinations for swimming, boating, and fishing. The park also offers ample opportunities for wildlife watching and photography, with deer, black bears, and bald eagles among the park's many inhabitants. The park's campground offers modern amenities and spacious campsites, making it a great place to spend a weekend or longer. Overall, Pattison State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to northern Wisconsin, with its stunning waterfalls, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife making for an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Dog area at Big Falls & Little Falls next to the main picnic area.

Dog Friendly Swim Areas:

1. Buckhorn State Park

Buckhorn State Park in Wisconsin is a popular destination for dog owners who love spending time with their furry friends in the great outdoors. The park offers a dog-friendly swim area, where visitors can bring their dogs to enjoy a refreshing dip in the water. The swim area is located in a secluded cove on Castle Rock Lake, which offers plenty of space for dogs to swim and play. The swim area is fenced in, providing a safe and secure environment for dogs to play and socialize with other dogs. In addition to the swim area, Buckhorn State Park offers a variety of hiking trails and other recreational opportunities for dogs and their owners to enjoy. Whether you're looking to spend a relaxing day at the beach or explore the park's scenic trails with your furry companion, Buckhorn State Park is a great place to visit with your dog.

Dog-friendly swim area on Water Street, west of the Buckhorn Bridge.

2. Copper Falls State Park

Copper Falls State Park in Wisconsin is a beautiful natural area that offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors and their furry friends. The park is home to a dog-friendly swim area, located in Loon Lake, which is surrounded by picturesque forests and stunning waterfalls. The swim area is open to dogs and their owners from May to September, and provides a safe and comfortable environment for dogs to swim and play. The area is fenced in, and includes a small beach area for dogs to relax and soak up the sun. Copper Falls State Park also features a network of scenic hiking trails that dogs are welcome to explore with their owners. The park is a great place to spend a day with your furry friend, and is sure to provide unforgettable outdoor experiences for both you and your dog.

Dog-friendly swim area is adjacent to the main picnic area

3. Devil’s Lake State Park

Devil's Lake State Park in Wisconsin is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, including dog owners who love to spend time with their furry companions. The park offers a dog-friendly swim area, located on the south shore of Devil's Lake. The swim area is open to dogs and their owners from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and provides a safe and fun environment for dogs to swim and play in the clear waters of Devil's Lake. The area is fenced in and includes a beach area for dogs to relax and enjoy the sun. Devil's Lake State Park also offers a variety of hiking trails that are dog-friendly, so visitors can enjoy scenic walks with their furry friends. With its stunning natural beauty and ample recreational opportunities, Devil's Lake State Park is a great place to visit with your dog and create unforgettable memories.

On-leash dog-friendly swim area located near the north shore boat launch, off-leash pet swim area near the south shore boat launch

4. Governor Dodge State Park

Governor Dodge State Park in Wisconsin is a popular destination for dog owners who love to spend time with their furry companions in the great outdoors. The park offers a dog-friendly swim area, located on Cox Hollow Lake. The swim area is open to dogs and their owners from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and provides a safe and fun environment for dogs to swim and play in the cool waters of the lake. The area is fenced in and includes a small beach area for dogs to relax and enjoy the sun. Governor Dodge State Park also offers a variety of hiking trails that are dog-friendly, so visitors can enjoy scenic walks with their furry friends. The park is a great place to spend a day with your dog, and is sure to provide unforgettable outdoor experiences for both you and your furry friend.

Dog-friendly swim area is next to the Cox Hollow swimming beach.

5. Governor Nelson State Park

Governor Nelson State Park in Wisconsin is a beautiful natural area that offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors and their furry friends. The park features a dog-friendly swim area, located on the shores of Lake Mendota. The swim area is open to dogs and their owners from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and provides a safe and fun environment for dogs to swim and play in the clear waters of the lake. The area is fenced in and includes a small beach area for dogs to relax and soak up the sun. Governor Nelson State Park also offers a network of hiking trails that are dog-friendly, so visitors can enjoy scenic walks with their furry friends. Whether you're looking to spend a relaxing day at the beach or explore the park's scenic trails with your furry companion, Governor Nelson State Park is a great place to visit with your dog.

Dog-friendly swim area is north of the beach/picnic area

6. Governor Thompson State Park

Governor Thompson State Park in Wisconsin is a picturesque natural area that is popular with visitors and their furry friends. The park offers a dog-friendly swim area, located on Woods Lake. The swim area is open to dogs and their owners from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and provides a safe and fun environment for dogs to swim and play in the refreshing waters of the lake. The area is fenced in and includes a small beach area for dogs to relax and enjoy the sun. Governor Thompson State Park also offers a variety of hiking trails that are dog-friendly, so visitors can enjoy scenic walks with their furry friends. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, Governor Thompson State Park is a great place to visit with your dog and create unforgettable memories

Dog-friendly swim area at Woods Lake beach at Boat Landing 13 (South Bay)

7. Harrington Beach State Park

Harrington State Park in Wisconsin is a beautiful natural area that offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities for visitors and their furry friends. The park features a dog-friendly swim area, located on the shores of Lake Michigan. The swim area is open to dogs and their owners from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and provides a safe and fun environment for dogs to swim and play in the clear waters of the lake. The area is fenced in and includes a small beach area for dogs to relax and enjoy the sun. Harrington State Park also offers a network of hiking trails that are dog-friendly, so visitors can enjoy scenic walks with their furry friends. Whether you're looking to spend a relaxing day at the beach or explore the park's scenic trails with your furry companion, Harrington State Park is a great place to visit with your dog.

Dog-friendly swim area at south beach

8. High Cliff State Park

High Cliff State Park in Wisconsin is a stunning natural area that is popular with visitors and their furry friends. The park offers a dog-friendly swim area, located on the shores of Lake Winnebago. The swim area is open to dogs and their owners from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and provides a safe and fun environment for dogs to swim and play in the cool waters of the lake. The area is fenced in and includes a small beach area for dogs to relax and enjoy the sun. High Cliff State Park also offers a network of hiking trails that are dog-friendly, so visitors can enjoy scenic walks with their furry friends. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, High Cliff State Park is a great place to visit with your dog and create unforgettable memories.

Dog-friendly swim area In the lower park, near the park office, with a swimming area in the pond

9. Kettle Moraine State Forest Southern Unit

Kettle Moraine State Forest Southern Unit is a beautiful natural area located in southeastern Wisconsin, USA. The forest offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities for visitors and their furry friends, including several dog-friendly swim areas. The swimming area at Mauthe Lake is open to dogs and their owners from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and features a sandy beach and clear waters for dogs to swim and play. The swim area at Ottawa Lake is also open to dogs and their owners from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and offers a small beach and picnic area for dogs and their owners to enjoy. Additionally, the forest features a variety of hiking and walking trails that are dog-friendly, making it a great place to spend a day with your furry companion. With its scenic beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and dog-friendly swim areas, Kettle Moraine State Forest Southern Unit is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts traveling with their furry friends

Dog-friendly swim area at Ottawa Lake on the left side of the boat launch & at Rice Lake on the right side of the boat launch

10. Lake Kegonsa State Park

Lake Kegonsa State Park in Wisconsin is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, including dog owners who love to spend time with their furry companions in the great outdoors. The park features a dog-friendly swim area, located on the south shore of Lake Kegonsa. The swim area is open to dogs and their owners from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and provides a safe and fun environment for dogs to swim and play in the clear waters of the lake. The area is fenced in and includes a small beach area for dogs to relax and enjoy the sun. Lake Kegonsa State Park also offers a variety of hiking and biking trails that are dog-friendly, so visitors can enjoy scenic walks and rides with their furry friends. Whether you're looking to spend a relaxing day at the beach or explore the park's scenic trails with your furry companion, Lake Kegonsa State Park is a great place to visit with your dog.

Dog-friendly swim areas with a pier to teach pets to jump into the water, but the pier is out when water levels are high.

11. Whitefish Dunes State Park

Whitefish Dunes State Park in Wisconsin is a picturesque natural area that offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities for visitors and their furry friends. The park features a dog-friendly swim area, located on the shores of Lake Michigan. The swim area is open to dogs and their owners from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and provides a safe and fun environment for dogs to swim and play in the clear waters of the lake. The area is fenced in and includes a small beach area for dogs to relax and enjoy the sun. Whitefish Dunes State Park also offers a network of hiking trails that are dog-friendly, so visitors can enjoy scenic walks with their furry friends. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, Whitefish Dunes State Park is a great place to visit with your dog and create unforgettable memories.

Dog-friendly swim access is a 0.75-mile walk from the parking lot. Pets are not allowed on the section of the beach from the nature center to the third beach access from April 1 to Nov. 1.

Created by @KellysLittleEtsyShop