Wisconsin River

The Wisconsin River ranks among the most popular recreational rivers in the Midwest, particularly in its middle and lower sections, offering a wide range of leisure activities immersed in nature. It is especially renowned for extended canoeing and kayaking trips, often spanning several days with overnight stops on the countless beautiful sandbars. These wide, shallow stretches with numerous sandbars invite visitors in summer to swim, sunbathe, picnic, and camp directly on the river – a true “sandbar camping” experience. Many paddlers enjoy the gentle current, striking sandstone bluffs, wooded banks, and abundant wildlife including eagles, herons, and deer. In addition to canoeing and kayaking, tubing (floating on inner tubes), stand-up paddleboarding, and occasional rafting are also very popular. Short hikes to scenic overlooks, fishing, or simply drifting along while taking in the passing landscape round out the options. Whether it’s a one-day outing or a multi-day float trip, the Wisconsin River stands for uncomplicated nature enjoyment, freedom, and the classic Midwestern outdoor spirit.