Natural Setting for Recreation

The Amnicon Falls State Park has a rich history and offers visitors a variety of activities and fun in the wilderness. The park is set on the Amnicon River, a pathway of the nomadic hunters of 9,000 years ago. Between 5000 B.C and 500 A.D, Native Americans settled along the river, using the copper in the area to create tools. The area was rich in trade materials which the first Europeans and the Native Americans took advantage of. They hunted mink, otter, and beaver, and the outpost was a popular destination as people moved west. After Wisconsin was established in 1848, lumberjacks began to move into the area and cut down the large pine trees on the land. They drove the logs down the river to the quarry area.

In 1932, Douglas County bought a 60 acre portion of the land and was gifted another portion of 65 acres. The county then gave this park area to the Town of Amnicon. The Civilian Conservation Corps developed the area and throughout the 1940's the park became a popular destination for families and nature lovers. The park grew to more than 150 acres, but was difficult to maintain and was returned to the country. The park was officially named in 1961, and has since grown to over 800 acres.

On the grounds are waterfalls, rapids, and river banks, making it a exciting destination to hike and picnic. Hiking trails include footbridges and rocky shores. Visitors to the area enjoy learning about and exploring the Douglas Fault, a geological formation that was responsible for the creation of the waterfalls. Camping is permitted at the park and there are 36 sites that include on that is accessible for those with disabilities. Two sites are walk in and are located just 100-150 feet from the parking area. Most of the campgrounds are rustic and shaded by trees. It is a quiet area and electric hookups, dumping stations, and showers are not on the property. Three sets of vault toilets, but no flush toilets are available for guests of the campgrounds. Drinking water is available from two different faucets and fire wood is available on the honor system from the park office. Just a few miles east of the park on US Highway 2 is a gas station and store for those who need to stock up on supplies before or after their trip.

The park is filled with wildlife, but park officials ask that visitors not feed the wildlife intentionally or accidentally. Campers should remember to keep coolers closed, food scraps put away in their vehicles, and do not eat in tents. This is both for the safety of the animals and the safety of park guests.

The park is supported by a group of volunteers known as the Friends of Pattison and Amnicon Falls State Parks. This group of people helps maintain services in the parks and helps meet the needs of visitors. They also have fundraising drives to raise money for the parks. Their accomplishments have included the installation of the open shelter in the picnic area. They host events year round including Fall Colorama, Winter Funfest, and their June Open House. The group also services visitors with sales at the park of soda, t-shirts, postcards, and firewood. A state park with a rich history and interesting surroundings, visit Amnicon Falls State Park.