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High Cliff
Overview
High Cliff State Park in Sherwood, WI, offers a unique camping experience situated atop the Niagara Escarpment. As the only state-owned recreational area on Lake Winnebago, it provides a dramatic landscape where limestone cliffs meet the expansive water. This park is a beloved destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Wisconsin's natural beauty while enjoying the conveniences of a well-maintained state park. The name High Cliff refers to the limestone cliffs that parallel the eastern shore of Lake Winnebago, offering some of the most breathtaking sunset views in the region.
Location & Surroundings
Located in Calumet County, the park overlooks the largest inland lake in Wisconsin. The surroundings are defined by towering cliffs and lush hardwood forests that create a sense of isolation from the nearby Fox Cities. Travelers will find the park easily accessible from the village of Sherwood, providing a peaceful escape that feels worlds away from the urban hustle of nearby Appleton. The transition from rolling farmland to dense woods signals your arrival at this unique geological sanctuary, which serves as a vital habitat for local wildlife and migratory birds.
Amenities & Park Features
The family campground provides a variety of setups, including several electric sites specifically designed for RVers. Visitors have access to modern conveniences that make a stay comfortable:
- Spacious campsites with electric hookups
- Modern shower facilities and clean flush toilets
- A convenient sanitary dump station for RV maintenance
- A full-service marina with over 100 slips and a boat launch
The park also features a large playground, multiple picnic areas, and a designated swimming beach on the lakefront for summer recreation.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Lime Kiln Trail or climb the 40-foot observation tower for panoramic views of the water. History buffs will appreciate the Indian Effigy Mounds, which are significant cultural landmarks preserved within the park grounds. Boating and fishing are primary draws, with the onsite marina providing easy access to Lake Winnebago. Just outside the park gates, golfers can enjoy the High Cliff Public Golf Course, while a short drive into the Fox Cities offers museums, shopping, and diverse dining options.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for active families and nature photographers who prioritize scenic vistas and diverse hiking trails over commercial resort amenities. It is a perfect fit for RVers who enjoy a rustic atmosphere with the benefit of essential electrical hookups. If you appreciate quiet evenings by a campfire and mornings spent exploring unique geological formations, High Cliff is a must-visit Wisconsin destination. It is particularly well-suited for those who travel with boats or enjoy bird watching along the migratory flyways.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Skye
If your looking for a unique and natural place to get out of the house this is it! Beautiful views, beautiful trees, a wonderful park, an amazing view from the tower and awesome spots for picnics and photographers! Definitely a must if you are in the area!
Heidi L
Beautiful parks for hiking anytime of the year! Many different trails with interesting sites, history and gorgeous views. A few trails closed due to construction work for improvements and updates. Tower for viewing, camping sites, restrooms, beach and so much more. Highly recommended!
Bryan “Dad of 4”
We had a wonderful afternoon exploring High Cliff State Park. The leaves had just started to turn, painting the forest in early shades of gold and orange, which made our walk through the wooded trails especially beautiful. The air was crisp, and the paths were well-kept, offering plenty of opportunities to pause and enjoy the quiet of nature. One of the highlights was climbing to the top of the observation tower. From there, we had an incredible view overlooking Lake Winnebago and could see the full sweep of the north side of the lake. It’s truly a scenic spot and worth the short hike up. The park offers a great mix of open areas and shaded trails, perfect for a casual stroll or a longer hike. The only reason I didn’t give it a full five stars is that parking near the main lookout was a bit limited during our visit. Still, the beauty of the landscape, the peaceful setting, and the views from the tower make this park a must-visit for anyone in the area. We left refreshed and already looking forward to coming back when the fall colors are in full display.
Hills Lee
It’s a great state park with everything in Wisconsin, there are lakes , view towers, stones, trails, 🍁, cliffs….. the stones here are very special with a lot of holes on every stone ! Also there is Red Bird statue here , last time I see similar is in Illinois and South Dakota. One hour is not enough to visit this beautiful state park, and I am planning to come again later in Sep or early October to enjoy the golden maple 🍁.
Christian Degroff
High cliff sate park is an absolutely Beautiful park right on Lake Winnebago with lots of lake viewing spots, paved walking paths for people with disabilities, and a very nice lookout tower. The campground is also very nice with beautiful campsites and well-maintained bathhouse facilities with nice showers as well.