Val Reiss Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Val Reiss Park is a scenic and vibrant park nestled in the state of Wisconsin.
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Summary
Located in Shawano County, this park offers a myriad of reasons to visit and explore its natural beauty.
One of the main attractions of Val Reiss Park is its stunning landscape, characterized by lush greenery, picturesque views, and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the park's well-maintained walking trails, which wind through the park's wooded areas and offer opportunities for hiking, jogging, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll.
One notable point of interest within Val Reiss Park is the park's namesake, the Val Reiss Quarry. This quarry is a former limestone excavation site that has been transformed into an enchanting lake. The quarry is renowned for its crystal-clear water, making it a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. Additionally, the quarry's cliffs provide a unique backdrop for rock climbing enthusiasts.
Apart from the quarry, Val Reiss Park is home to various recreational amenities that cater to visitors of all ages. The park features a playground for children, picnic areas with grills for family gatherings, and spacious open spaces for sports and games. Nature lovers will also appreciate the park's wildlife, as it is known for attracting a diverse range of bird species.
Interesting facts about Val Reiss Park include its rich historical background. The park's quarry, for example, was a significant source of limestone during the early 1900s, contributing to the development of Shawano County. Additionally, the park is named after Val Reiss, a prominent local businessman who owned the quarry and donated the land to develop the park.
The best time to visit Val Reiss Park largely depends on personal preferences and the activities visitors wish to partake in. Spring and summer months, from April to September, are generally ideal for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and hiking. Autumn months offer breathtaking foliage, making it a picturesque time to explore the park. Winter enthusiasts can also enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the park's trails during the colder months.
To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to verify the information provided by referring to multiple independent sources about Val Reiss Park in Wisconsin.
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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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