A Curious Travelers' Guide To Nelson Dewey State Park
Hi! I am Kirsti, and I think wandering is the best way to travel. Don’t get me wrong; planning is essential to ensure you see everything you want, and it’s a good idea to have a place to stay and know how you will get to your destination. But after that? But I am here to show you how letting go of expectations and allowing yourself to be curious can be more fun.
On a recent day trip across the Mississippi River by way of the Cassville Car Ferry, I found many more things that I would like to see and do on a subsequent trip (or two). Taking time to explore the Nelson Dewey State Park was one of them.
Thank you for stopping by to learn more about this small state park in Southwest Wisconsin. I hope the article will inspire you to get out there, be curious about what’s around you, and give you enough information to see and do everything you want along the way.
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Your Guide To The Nelson Dewey State Park
There are 756 acres in Nelson Dewey State Park near Cassville, WI, in Grant County, with dense woodlands, hiking trails, and panoramic views. However, this relatively small park packs a lot in, and as a curious traveler, this is your guide to discover more.
Nelson Dewey, who arrived in this area by way of the Cassville Car Ferry, was also Wisconsin’s first governor and inspired the park’s name. Before being designated as a State Natural Area, the park was part of Dewey’s 2,000-acre property.
Wisconsin’s Nelson Dewey State Park sits atop a bluff, offering sweeping views of the Mississippi River. It is the perfect spot to combine learning about history with being outdoors – visitors can hike or meander, all while taking in the majestic Mississippi from the steep bluffs above.
Camping, picnicking, fishing and hiking are popular park activities. Boats may be rented in Cassville, or guests can fish right off the banks of the Mississippi.
Nelson Dewey State Park's Nature and Bluffs
The tall bluffs that overlook the Mississippi River, as well as the native prairies that have been restored, are what attract a variety of birds and wildlife to Nelson Dewey State Park.
There is a great deal of diversity in nature in Nelson Dewey and it developed geographically in the same way that most Wisconsin parks were formed geographically. Once a mountainous region, even Buffalo roamed here.
A Bit Of History: This region is part of the Driftless Area and was covered by ice for a long time, causing the earth to shift (up and down), deposit silt and create the tall bluffs we see today.
What is unique about the Driftless Area? As retreating glaciers leave behind silt, gravel, and rock, the term “driftless” implies no glacial drift. Across the Driftless Area, you will find the world’s largest concentration of cold water streams and steep, rugged terrain.
Nelson Dewey State Park Has A Lot To Offer
Camping
Nelson Dewey State Park is a popular destination for camping and outdoor activities, especially in summer. Winter camping is unavailable (you will understand why when you climb the steep hill into the park).
Well-paved roads make it easy for cars and RVs to navigate the campground. The park’s well-marked trails make getting around by foot or bicycle easy once you’ve parked and set up camp.
You may reserve online, in advance spots at the family and group areas and hike to many primitive sites. Wisconsin State Parks are very popular, and book out months in advance.
Firewood is available for sale from the park’s office, and there is a grocery store in Cassville in case you forgot something.
Group Campgrounds
You will find plenty of space for your large group activities at the group campground. Up to 120 people can be accommodated in a group camping area on three separate sites.
Camping areas are large, picnic tables are provided, and fire rings are available at each location. Several amenities are available at the group camp, such as a shelter, vault toilets, and water. Nelson Dewey’s group sites are all electric.
Family Campgrounds
The Family Campground is secluded and wooded, making it the perfect place for a relaxing getaway. There are 45 individual sites at the family campground, including 18 electric sites. Four spots are on the bluff with a fantastic view of the Mississippi River, which can only be accessed on foot. Near site 13, flush toilets and showers are available. There is an ADA site available at site 12.
Special Note: If you can camp at one of the four walk-in sites along the bluff, magical views and breathtaking sunsets are in store, and you won’t be disappointed!
Each is a popular spot, so get a reservation early in the year.
Hiking Nelson Dewey State Park
Over two miles of hiking and nature trails are available to meander through Nelson Dewey State Park.
There are several trails to hike, including the self-guided Woodbine Nature Trail, a 0.3-mile trail, the 0.4-mile Oakwood Trail through the woods, and the 0.2-mile Prairie Trail along the Mississippi River’s edge.
There is also a 0.6-mile Mound Point Trail that travels close to the burial mounds, providing benches so visitors can stop and observe the wildlife and birds of the Mississippi Flyway.
Views of Stonefield Village and the river can be seen from the 0.2-mile Cedar Trail.
Please Note: As no barriers or barricades protect you from the cliff edges, please use caution and avoid them.
Picnic Areas and Shelters In Nelson Dewey State Park
Nelson Dewey State Park’s day-use facilities are easily accessible, with gorgeous views of the Mississippi Valley below.
Spring, Fall or Summer months are all perfect times for picnics which day visitors and campers alike can enjoy. A picnic area is designated at the park’s three main points, Mound Point, Dewey Heights, and Cedar Point, with picnic tables and fire pits. The Dewey Heights picnic area also offers two picnic shelters.
Idea: Do you have a family gathering or reunion in the works? This park would be a great place to host it.
Birds and Wildlife At The Nelson Dewey State Park
The Mississippi Flyway is home to over 325 bird species that travel between Canadian and northern American breeding grounds and wintering grounds in Central and South America.
Migrating birds, such as songbirds, waterfowl, shorebirds and raptors, use the Wisconsin Great River Road as a superhighway. It’s one of North America’s most important nesting areas for many bird species during the summer.
Keep An Eye Out: Grab your binoculars to spot Cerulean, Kentucky and Yellow-throated Warblers. Other species living here include the Prothonotary Warbler, Bell’s Vireo, Henslow’s Sparrow, Wild Turkey, Red-tailed Hawk, Turkey Vulture, and my favorite, the Bald Eagle.
While hiking the Praire Trail, I was lucky to hear two Hoot-owls talking to each other!
Did You Know: Nearly two-thirds of the Wisconsin Great River Road National Scenic Byway route is protected forests, wetlands, and prairies that attract birds. Many mammals along the Wisconsin Great River Road include beavers, muskrats, otters, white-tailed deer, foxes, and coyotes. The Upper Mississippi River also has more than 145 amphibian and reptile species.
In the Midwest, there is no place like this.
Nelson Dewey Prairie Programs
The Nelson Dewey State Park offers a variety of activities to introduce and cultivate a love of nature in children. In the park, kids will enjoy programs focusing on animal tracks, including arts and crafts such as making animal track plaster prints.
The park also offers mini-naturalist programs to teach children all about the animals that live there. The park hosts star gazing and cross-country skiing events, so even if you’re not a kid, there’s something fun for everyone.
Nelson Dewey State Park in the Fall
Nature. Crisp Air. Beautiful colors. Gorgeous views. Enough said!
This Wisconsin State Park is one of the best places to explore during fall.
Nelson Dewey State Park in the Winter
You can also visit the park during the off-season. The main gate is closed, but the parking lot is maintained, and you can park there and walk in. Bring cross-country skis or snow shoes, and have a blast!!
Note: A vehicle admission sticker is required year-round.
There Is More To Come
There is always more to come when we travel with an open mind; in life and around the world, there is always more to experience.
Thank you for stopping by to learn more about this small state park in Southwest Wisconsin. I hope the article will inspire you to get out there, be curious about what’s around you, and give you enough information to see and do everything you want along the way.
As you can see, the Nelson Dewey State Park offers so much. Beautiful scenery and views await you on a day trip or as part of a more extended excursion.
Bring your camera and hiking shoes and enjoy one of the best Wisconsin State Parks with 500-foot views of the Mississippi River. On a clear day, I swear you can see Northern California!
Until we meet again, wander on.
Kirsti
Cheers to your next adventure!
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I’m Kirsti, and I want to help you find new places to explore.
My blog, Along The Way, offers practical tips for getting out there and exploring – whether through travel, volunteering, or simply taking a different route on your daily commute.
I hope you will follow along!
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