Wisconsin became part of the United States in the mid-1800s and was first settled by Europeans in the 19th century, with many migrating from Germany and Scandinavia (whose cultural influences remain today).

Heavily glaciated during the Ice Age, Wisconsin’s landscapes range from coniferous forests to dramatic sandstone formations, fertile agricultural lands, and sparkling lakes. It experiences a humid continental climate, with temperatures that range from around 90°F in the summer down to -30°F in the winter months.

The Wisconsin Outdoors

Rent an RV in Wisconsin and head north to explore the Chequamegon–Nicolet National Forest, which encompasses a staggering 1.5 million acres. While its old-growth forests were largely destroyed by logging in the early 20th century, they were replanted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Stretch your legs on the hiking trails that wind through its uplands, bogs, and wetlands while keeping your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer, river otters, and black bears. The Chequamegon–Nicolet National Forest is also a renowned fishing destination, with trout, walleye, bass, and northern pike to inspire anglers. There is no shortage of RV campgrounds in Chequamegon-Nicolet, with options at the Anvil Lake, Franklin Lake, and Spectacle Lake Recreation Areas.

Paddlers should head to Brunet Island State Park, which lies at the confluence of the Chippewa and Fisher rivers. You can camp on the water’s edge and explore the channels and lagoons by canoe or stretch your legs on the 20-mile Old Abe State Trail. Large numbers of white-tailed deer inhabit the park and feed on the young eastern hemlock trees that blanket the landscape. There are two campgrounds within the park, including 45 primitive sites at the North Campground and 24 electric hookup sites at the South Campground.

If you drive west from Madison, you’ll arrive at the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway, which encompasses 95,000 acres on both sides of the Wisconsin River. It’s a popular destination for canoeing, hiking, and horseback riding, as well as fishing and hunting. The riverway is renowned for its exceptional birdlife, with several species attracted to the area’s marshes, while the rolling hills and bluffs offer picturesque views. When it’s time to bunk down for the night, you can head to the campsites at Wisconsin Riverside Resort in Spring Green, where you’ll find full hookups, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.

Exploring Wisconsin’s Cities

Serving as the capital of Wisconsin is Madison, which lies on an isthmus surrounded by four lakes in the south of the state. It’s home to the domed Wisconsin State Capitol, which was completed in 1917, as well as the Wisconsin Historical Museum that documents the state’s immigrant and farming history. Follow the Capital City State Trail to witness the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Monona Terrace. Its rooftop terrace offers sweeping views across the city. There are several RV parks near Madison, including the pet-friendly Lake Farm Campground within William G. Lunney Lake Farm County Park.

If you drive east from Madison, you’ll arrive in Milwaukee, which is the largest city in Wisconsin. It lies on the shores of Lake Michigan and is home to a plethora of breweries, as well as plenty of museums and art galleries to engage your cultural curiosity. Check out the classic motorcycles on display at the Harley-Davidson Museum or stroll through the recreated Wisconsin streets and European Village of the Milwaukee Public Museum. If you’re traveling with kids, they can get hands-on in the worlds of science and technology at Discovery World or come face-to-face with species from across the globe at the Milwaukee County Zoo. Full-hookup sites are available at the Wisconsin State Fair Park RV Park, which is the only RV park in Milwaukee.

In the heart of the state is Wisconsin Rapids, which serves as the seat of Wood County. It’s home to several engaging museums, such as the South Wood County Historical Corporation Museum, where old photographs, artifacts, and school yearbooks are on display. You can learn about paper making around the world at the Wisconsin River Paper Making Museum before paying your respects at the Wisconsin State Firefighters Memorial. A handful of Wisconsin Rapids RV parks can be found in and around the city, including the Cozy Inn Motel & RV Park, which offers full hookups, clean bathrooms, and laundry facilities.

Whether you want to get lost in the Chequamegon–Nicolet National Forest or cultured in Madison and Milwaukee, book an RV rental in Wisconsin and start planning your next adventure.