Wildcat Mountain State Park
RV Guide

The Kickapoo River is one of the best places in all of Wisconsin to go canoeing or kayaking. "Kickapoo" actually means "one who goes here, then there" and that's exactly what you'll be doing when you paddle along the river. Once you park your RV and head to the water, you can use your own boat or rent one from a local private company. The lower picnic area features a launching point for canoes and is also an excellent place to stop for a snack before going down the river.

Wildcat Mountain State Park is home to 26 miles of well-marked trails. History buffs will enjoy the 2.5 miles of Old Settlers Trail which is named after early settlers. The Hemlock Nature Trail meanders along Kickapoo River giving spectacular views of diverse plants growing near the shores and birds before leading to the park’s observation point. The scenic Ice Cave Trail weaves along the Billing Creek vegetation before cutting through sandstone formations. For those who prefer a short and less tedious hike, the Prairie Trail is a good choice. Make sure to pack your hiking boots in the motorhome for this camping adventure.

There are plenty of fishing opportunities at Wildcat Mountain State Park. With over 45 fish species, the park is an oasis for anglers thanks to the Kickapoo River and its tributary billing creek. With the river winding through the park, anglers won't need to travel far to catch their limit of trout. Apart from sport fishing, this section of the Kickapoo River is a great destination for kayaking, boating, and canoeing too.

Mountain Biking is a popular past time in Wildcat Mountain State Park because of its hilly terrain and striking landscape. There are over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails that lead all over the park and even down to the Kickapoo Valley Reserve below. Campers can take their bikes on many of the trails or even hit the backcountry for some fat tire terrain. Summer is the best to cycle the park, but in early fall, cyclists like to ride the trails to see spectacular leaf changes in the autumn season. No matter when you go, you'll enjoy the scenery on a ride through the park.

Wildcat Mountain State Park is serviced by 15 miles of color-coded equestrian trails. Opening seasonally from the beginning of May to mid-November, these designated horse trails are interconnected with most originating from the equestrian campground and traversing the park’s ridges, valleys, and hills. A state trail pass is mandatory for riders over 16 years of age. Trails for horseback riding include the Red Loop, Rock Johnson Loop, Purple Loop, Green, Blue, Yellow and Orange Trails. You can keep your horse overnight in the Equestrian Campground, so you don't have to worry about a thing during your RV stay.

There is, perhaps, no better place to enjoy a picnic than sitting on the banks of the Kickapoo River, except sitting above it on a ridge looking down upon the whole Kickapoo Valley. You can throw a blanket down anywhere that strikes your fancy, or you can choose one of Wildcat Mountain State Park's picnic areas.

The upper picnic area is located on the ridge offering visitors awesome views of Kickapoo River as it slowly moves through the park. This area marks the beginning of Old Settlers Trail. A large playground sits in this picnic area. The lower picnic area is the starting point of Hemlock Nature Trail. For canoeists, this area houses the canoe landing. Enjoy a delicious packed lunch before heading out on the river in your canoe.

Would you like to sharpen your archery and hunting skills? Then you have found an added reason to visit Wildcat Mountain State Park in your RV. From mid-November to January, some sections of the park’s grassland are open for muzzleloader deer hunting and archery. Rifle hunting is not allowed within the park. To be on the safe side, please remember to check on restricted areas, permissible trap types, and other Wisconsin hunting guidelines, including required hunter safety courses and licenses.

In the winter months, when the snow gets deep enough, you can cross-country ski on seven miles of groomed trails within the park. You can take the loop beginning and ending at the park office, which is a convenient place to warm up and get a cup of coffee. Ski along the ridge that overlooks the Kickapoo River and stop to check out each scenic lookout. The trails have been recently widened, so there will be plenty of room to ski with a friend. Additionally, you can snowshoe on any of the hiking trails throughout the park. This will be quite a workout since the park is known for its hilly landscape. Make sure to dress appropriately and bring plenty of water. Pick up a trail map from the park office or print one online before heading out for a winter adventure.