Rocky Arbor State Park

This small but picturesque state park lies just two miles west of the city of Wisconsin Dells and provides a refreshing reprieve from the noise and traffic of a summer day in the Dells. Rocky Arbor State Park was established in 1932 to protect the sandstone outcroppings.

The ancient Cambrian sandstone (500+ million years old) that also forms the shoreline (dells) along the nearby Wisconsin River was eroded by the ancient Wisconsin River as the Glacial Lake Wisconsin drained. Although the Wisconsin River long ago changed its course and no longer flows through the site, many iconic sandstone cliffs and ledges can be visited here. The tiny stream that now occupies the gorge flows in the opposite direction than the river did when it carved this scenic area.

The all-season park offers day-use facilities, including a picnic area, playground, and toilets.  A seasonal campsite (Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends) offers 89 wooded sites, showers and flush toilets.  The park has a 1-mile long single loop self-guided nature trail.

A state park sticker or pass is required for day or overnight use.  The park is open year-round for hiking or snow shoeing.  During the off-season visitors can park at the gate and enter the grounds on foot.

Stairs at Rocky Arbor State Park