Rocky Arbor State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Rocky Arbor State Park is a natural gem located in the state of Wisconsin.
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Summary
The park spans 244 acres and is situated just off of Interstate 90/94, making it easily accessible to visitors. There are several good reasons to visit Rocky Arbor State Park, including the beautiful natural scenery, hiking trails, and camping opportunities. The park features unique rock formations and a stunning forested area that is home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors can also take advantage of the park's picnic areas, shelter buildings, and playgrounds.
One of the most popular points of interest in Rocky Arbor State Park is the natural sandstone tunnel that runs underneath the interstate. This unique feature is a must-see for visitors and offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's geologic history. Additionally, the park is home to several hiking trails, including the 2.5-mile Rocky Arbor State Park Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding forested area.
Interesting facts about the area include that the park was originally developed as a state park in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The park's name is derived from the rocky outcroppings that can be found throughout the area. Rocky Arbor State Park is also home to several rare plant species, including the dwarf grape fern and the dwarf ginseng.
The best time of year to visit Rocky Arbor State Park is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the park's natural beauty is at its peak. However, the park is open year-round and offers a variety of activities for visitors in all seasons. Overall, Rocky Arbor State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a unique and beautiful experience in Wisconsin's great outdoors.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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