Hartman Creek State Park
Hartman Creek State Park is a scenic central Wisconsin park known for its clear spring-fed lakes, rolling glacial hills, and mixed hardwood forests. Visitors come for swimming, paddling, fishing, camping, and year-round outdoor recreation in a peaceful natural setting.
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Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed in park and campground; must be leashed, under control, and cleaned up after. Not allowed on beaches.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Quiet, scenic park with clean lake beaches, great camping, hiking, biking, and fishing. Visitors love the peaceful woods, family-friendly atmosphere, and well-kept facilities.
Tips from Visitors
- Bring bug spray for summer trails and campsites.
- Arrive early on weekends for parking and beach access.
- Check trail conditions after rain; some areas get muddy.
- Carry water, especially on longer hikes and bike rides.
- Respect posted swimming and boating safety rules.
- Pack out all trash to help protect the park.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hartman Creek State Park is late spring through early fall, when the lakes are warm enough for swimming and paddling and the forests are at their greenest. Autumn is especially beautiful for foliage and cooler hikes.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Hartman Creek State Park:
- Waupaca Historical Society MuseumA local museum showcasing the history and heritage of Waupaca and the surrounding area.5 miles away
- Chain O' LakesA popular nearby lake chain known for boating, fishing, and scenic waterfront recreation.6 miles away
- Crystal RiverA scenic waterway offering paddling and fishing opportunities in the Waupaca area.7 miles away
Things to Do at Hartman Creek State Park
Camping at Hartman Creek State Park
Hartman Creek State Park offers tent and RV camping with electric sites, restrooms, showers, fire rings, picnic tables, and reservations.
Hiking Trails
Hartman Creek State Park offers pleasant day hiking with a mix of easy, well-marked trails through pine woods, wetlands, and around scenic lakes. Hikers often enjoy the peaceful setting, gentle terrain, and family-friendly loops. Trails are not especially challenging, but they provide a relaxing outing with good birdwatching and seasonal color, making the park a solid choice for a casual hike.
Ice Age Trail (Hartman Creek segment)
moderateA scenic segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that winds through forest, wetlands, and glacial landscape features in and around Hartman Creek State Park.
Allen Lake Trail
easyA pleasant loop around Allen Lake with wooded sections and lake views, good for a shorter hike or family outing.
Mink Lake Trail
easyA quiet trail through mixed forest leading around Mink Lake, offering a peaceful hike with gentle terrain.
Horse Trail Loop
moderateA longer loop through rolling woodland and park interior, suitable for hikers looking for a bit more distance and variety.
Directions
From Waupaca, take WI-54 west, then turn south on Hartman Creek Road and follow signs to the park entrance. The park is about 10 minutes from downtown Waupaca.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular things to do at Hartman Creek State Park?
Visitors commonly come for hiking, swimming, fishing, camping, and paddling on the park’s lakes. The mountain bike trails and scenic wooded areas are also popular, especially in warmer months.
Is Hartman Creek State Park good for families with kids?
Yes. Many visitors say it’s family-friendly, with a beach area, easy trails, picnic spots, and camping. Kids often enjoy swimming, exploring the woods, and spotting wildlife.
Can you swim at Hartman Creek State Park?
Yes, there is a designated swimming beach. Reviews often mention it as a nice place to cool off in summer, though water conditions can vary and it’s best to check for any advisories.
Are there camping options at Hartman Creek State Park?
Yes. The park has a campground with sites for tents and RVs. Campers often note that it’s a quiet, wooded setting, though some sites may be more private than others.
Are the trails at Hartman Creek State Park easy to hike?
There are trails for different skill levels. Many visitors describe them as generally easy to moderate, with some uneven or sandy sections. They’re popular for walking, hiking, and biking.
What should I know before visiting Hartman Creek State Park?
Arrive early on busy summer weekends, bring bug spray, and check for park fees or seasonal hours. Visitors often recommend wearing sturdy shoes and bringing water, especially for longer trail outings.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
View Gear Checklist →