Buckhorn State Park
Buckhorn State Park occupies a remote peninsula on the Castle Rock Flowage of the Wisconsin River – a 4,500-acre escape where secluded cart-in campsites, excellent fishing, and the rare Central Wisconsin pine barrens ecosystem combine for one of the state’s most underrated outdoor experiences. Together with two adjacent wildlife areas, over 8,000 acres of wilderness await exploration.
Whether you’re paddling to a hidden campsite, casting for walleye from the fishing pier, or hunting white-tailed deer in the adjacent wildlife area, Buckhorn delivers a wilderness atmosphere just two hours from Madison and Milwaukee.
Park Highlights
50 Cart-In & Backpack Sites
Transport gear by cart, canoe, or kayak to secluded waterfront campsites. The most unique camping in Wisconsin.
Pine Barrens Ecosystem
Rare Central Wisconsin sand barrens with jack pines, oak woods, and 20-foot observation tower on the nature trail.
Castle Rock Flowage
Excellent walleye, bass, and panfish action. Boat launch, fishing pier, and accessible cabin for anglers.
8,000+ Acres for Hunting
Buckhorn Wildlife Area adjacent to park offers archery deer, turkey, and small game hunting opportunities.
Camping Options
| Campground Type | Sites | Hookups | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🔥 Family Campground | 69 sites | 20 electric | RVs and tent campers wanting amenities |
| 🛶 Cart-In Sites | 50 sites | None | Paddlers and those seeking seclusion |
| 🎒 Backpack Sites | Year-round | None | Winter camping and backcountry experience |
| 👥 Group Camps | 3 sites (40 people each) | Water only | Scout troops, family reunions, clubs |
| ♿ Accessible Cabin | 1 cabin (6 people) | Full | ADA accessible, near fishing pier |
🛶 Cart-In Camping Pro Tip
Shared carts are available at the trailhead, but the best sites are accessible by canoe or kayak. Paddle to your site on the peninsula for the ultimate secluded experience. Sites include fire ring, picnic table, and bench – most are shoreline or water-adjacent.
Campground Amenities
- 🚿 Showers: Modern shower/toilet building at family campground
- 🚽 Restrooms: Vault toilets at remote sites
- 🗑️ Dump Station: Available at family campground
- 🪵 Firewood: Available for purchase at park office
- 🐻 Bear Aware: Bears are present – proper food storage required
⚠️ 2026 Construction Notice
A significant road construction project beginning in 2026 will temporarily impact some campsites, the accessible cabin, and boat launch areas. Check with park office before booking.
Hiking Trails
| Trail Name | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 🔥 Oak Barrens Nature Trail | 1.5 mi | Interpretive signs, eco box, 20-ft observation tower |
| Central Sands Nature Trail | 1.4 mi | Sandy terrain, jack pine habitat |
| Glacial Lake Trail | 1.0 mi | Wetlands and wildlife viewing |
| Partridge Trail | 1.2 mi | Oak woods, bird watching |
| Turkey Hollow Trail | 1.5 mi | Wildlife corridor, seasonal wildflowers |
| Timber Trail | 1.3 mi | Forest walk, connects campground |
| Pond Trail | 0.5 mi | Easy loop, kids friendly |
Trail Tip: An outdoor wheelchair is available for rent through the park office for visitors with mobility needs.
Fishing on Castle Rock Flowage
| Species | Best Season | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 🐟 Walleye | Spring, Fall | Castle Rock Flowage is a top walleye destination |
| 🐟 Largemouth Bass | May–September | Work the weed edges and downed timber |
| 🐟 Northern Pike | Spring, Fall | Trolling along drop-offs productive |
| 🐟 Panfish (Crappie, Bluegill) | Year-round | Excellent for families and ice fishing |
- 🚤 Boat Launch: Concrete ramp with parking (may be impacted by 2026 construction)
- 🎣 Fishing Pier: Accessible pier near cabin, excellent for shore anglers
- 🧊 Ice Fishing: Castle Rock Flowage is popular for winter panfish
Hunting & Trapping
Buckhorn State Park and adjacent Buckhorn Wildlife Area offer over 8,000 acres of public hunting land:
| Season | Dates | Allowed Areas |
|---|---|---|
| 🦌 Archery Deer | Mid-Sept – Early Jan | Designated open areas of park + wildlife area |
| 🦃 Spring Turkey | April–May | Buckhorn Wildlife Area |
| 🦆 Waterfowl | State season | Castle Rock Flowage, wildlife area |
| 🐻 General Hunting | Nov 15 – Dec 15 | Designated state park areas |
🎯 Hunter’s Note
Gun deer hunting is NOT permitted in Buckhorn Wildlife Area – archery only. Consult park maps for specific weapon zones. Vehicle admission sticker required even for hunters.
Wildlife Watching
The diverse habitats attract exceptional wildlife:
- 🦅 Bald Eagles – Common along the flowage shoreline
- 🦢 Sandhill Cranes – Nesting in wetland areas
- 🦉 Warblers & Woodpeckers – Abundant in oak and pine woods
- 🦌 White-tailed Deer – Numerous throughout park
- 🦆 Waterfowl – Migratory ducks and geese on flowage
Park Fees & Passes
| Pass Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Vehicle Pass | $8 (in-state) / $11 (out-of-state) | Required for all visitors |
| Annual Vehicle Pass | $28 (in-state) / $38 (out-of-state) | Valid at all WI state parks |
| Family Camping | $20-35/night | Electric sites higher |
| Cart-In/Backpack Sites | $14/night | Best value for solitude |
Getting There
Buckhorn State Park is located on a peninsula in Juneau County, central Wisconsin:
- 📍 From Madison: ~1.5 hours north via I-90/94 and WI-82
- 📍 From Milwaukee: ~2 hours northwest via I-94 and WI-82
- 📍 From Wisconsin Dells: ~30 minutes west
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes cart-in camping different from regular camping?
Cart-in sites are located away from roads on the peninsula. You transport your gear using shared carts at the trailhead, or better yet, by canoe or kayak. Sites are more secluded with water access – essentially wilderness camping with a picnic table and fire ring.
Can I hunt in Buckhorn State Park?
Yes, archery deer hunting is allowed in designated areas from mid-September through early January. The adjacent Buckhorn Wildlife Area also permits bow hunting and spring turkey. Gun deer hunting is NOT allowed in the wildlife area.
Are there bears at Buckhorn?
Yes, black bears are present in the area. Proper food storage is required at all campsites. Use the bear boxes or hang food properly.
What’s the best time to visit?
Late spring through early fall for camping and fishing. Fall colors are excellent in late September. Winter offers backpack camping, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.
Is there cell service?
Signal is limited throughout the park, especially at cart-in sites. Plan accordingly and download offline maps before arriving.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed in the park and campground but must be on a leash no longer than 8 feet. Dogs are not allowed on designated swimming beaches.
What about the 2026 construction?
A major road project will impact some campsites, the accessible cabin, and boat launch areas starting in 2026. Contact the park office for current updates before planning your trip.
🏕️ Experience Wisconsin’s Hidden Peninsula Paradise
Buckhorn State Park offers the rare combination of remote cart-in camping, excellent fishing, and abundant wildlife – all on a secluded peninsula just hours from major cities.
📍 Address: W8450 Buckhorn Park Ave, Necedah, WI 54646
📞 Phone: (608) 565-2789
🌐 Reservations: wisconsin.goingtocamp.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Wisconsin state parks vehicle sticker?
An annual vehicle admission sticker costs $28 for residents and $38 for non-residents. A daily pass costs $8 for residents and $11 for non-residents. The sticker is required at all state parks and forests.
What are the best state parks in Wisconsin?
Top parks include Devil’s Lake (bluff trails and swimming), Peninsula (Door County charm), Governor Dodge (lakes and trails), Wildcat Mountain (Kickapoo Valley views), and Mirror Lake (sandstone formations).
Can I camp at Devil's Lake State Park?
Yes, Devil’s Lake offers multiple campgrounds with over 400 sites. It is the most visited state park in Wisconsin and campgrounds fill very quickly for summer weekends. Reserve as early as possible through the WI DNR.
Are there waterfalls at Wisconsin state parks?
Yes, several Wisconsin parks feature waterfalls including Amnicon Falls, Copper Falls, Pattison (Big Manitou Falls — tallest in WI at 165 feet), and Interstate. Most are in the northern part of the state.
Explore More Wisconsin State Parks
Buckhorn State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Wisconsin. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Wisconsin guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
