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Details

How to get on the trip:
1. Add your name to the "Wait List"
2. Fill out the trip application and get approved within 48h:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z3LN5YQ
3. Make a payment (information provided below)
4. After the payment is received, you will be marked as "Going"
5. See you at the campsite! :)

High Cliff State Park is one of Wisconsin's most unique destinations, combining dramatic geology, Native American history, breathtaking lake views, excellent hiking, and waterfront recreation—all just 30 minutes from Appleton and less than a 3-hour drive from the Chicagoland area.

Nestled along the northeastern shore of Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin's largest inland lake, this beautiful 1,200-acre park sits atop the Niagara Escarpment—the same ancient limestone formation that creates Niagara Falls hundreds of miles away. Towering limestone cliffs overlook the lake, offering some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the state.

Here is a great opportunity to get acquainted with Lake Winnebago:
The Endless Shores of Wisconsin: Lake Winnebago: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-V6TrHplXo

Campground Information
High Cliff State Park
N7630 State Park Rd
Sherwood, WI 54169
Check-in: Friday after 3:00 PM
Check-out: Sunday by 1:00 PM
Campground amenities include:

  • Drinking water near the campsite
  • Vault toilets
  • Swimming beach
  • Bathhouse with showers and flush toilets
  • Beautiful access to Lake Winnebago

Our goal for the weekend is simple: slow down, enjoy nature, meet great people, and experience everything High Cliff State Park has to offer.

Hiking
High Cliff offers approximately 18 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy lakeside walks to more challenging climbs along the Niagara Escarpment.

  • Park Trail Map

https://widnr.widen.net/s/nfjlgzg9w6/high-cliff_trail-map
Some favorite trails include:

  • Lime Kiln Trail

Historic lime kiln ruins, forests, limestone cliffs, and beautiful scenery.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/wisconsin/lime-kiln-trail--3

  • Red Bird Trail

One of the park's signature hikes features panoramic overlooks and an observation tower with outstanding views of Lake Winnebago.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/wisconsin/red-bird-trail--3

  • Indian Mound Trail

Discover Native American effigy mounds while learning about the area's rich archaeological history.

  • Butterfly Pond Trail

A short, easy, accessible nature walk that's perfect for a relaxing stroll.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/wisconsin/butterfly-pond-trail

Kayaking
With over 137,700 acres of water, Lake Winnebago offers outstanding paddling, wildlife viewing, and beautiful shoreline scenery.

Kayaking Option 1 – High Cliff State Park (Recommended)
Launch directly from the park and paddle beneath dramatic limestone cliffs while watching for bald eagles, herons, and other wildlife.

Kayaking Option 2 – Menominee Park (Oshkosh)
Explore the calm waters of Miller's Bay or venture into Lake Winnebago.

Approximately 30 miles from the campground.

Kayaking Option 3 – Doty Island (Neenah/Menasha)
Enjoy a scenic four-mile paddle through both channels of the Fox River, passing marinas, historic homes, and the Kimberly Point Lighthouse.

Tentative Weekend Schedule
Friday

  • Arrive anytime after 3:00 PM
  • Set up camp
  • Relax and unwind
  • Evening campfire

Arriving early? Consider stopping at the Chilton Farmers Market at Klinkner Park, Chilton from 10am to 4pm.

Saturday
8:00–9:30 AM – Optional Forest Bathing Program hosted by Wisconsin State Parks
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/events/123701
After the program, we'll choose the best kayaking location based on the weather and lake conditions.
Later in the day we'll explore one or more of High Cliff's scenic hiking trails before gathering back at camp for our traditional potluck dinner, campfire, and a relaxing evening under the stars.

Sunday

  • Enjoy one final hike or paddle.
  • Pack up and leave the campsite by 1:00 PM.

Cost
$35 per person
Includes:

  • Two nights of camping
  • Firewood for our evening campfires
  • Charcoal for grilling

Your payment confirms your reservation (Venmo, Zelle, or PayPal: mcdzica AT gmail.com)

Good to Know
Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission sticker is required:
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/admission
Stay tuned for additional trip information, packing recommendations, and weather updates.

Happy Camping!

Related topics

Events in Sherwood, WI

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