Governor Dodge State Park
Wisconsin’s Driftless Area Gem: Waterfalls, Caves, and Twin Lakes
Governor Dodge State Park sprawls across 5,270 acres of the scenic Driftless Area in southwestern Wisconsin, where ancient sandstone bluffs rise above deep valleys carved over 450 million years. This is one of the largest and most diverse state parks in Wisconsin, featuring two sparkling lakes with swimming beaches, a 30-foot waterfall tucked into a lush canyon, sandstone caves used by prehistoric peoples, and nearly 40 miles of multi-use trails. Whether you come for a weekend of camping among the bluffs or a day of swimming and cave exploration, Governor Dodge delivers an unforgettable Midwest wilderness experience.
Stephens’ Falls: A Hidden Canyon Waterfall
The park’s crown jewel is Stephens’ Falls, a 30-foot waterfall that cascades into a sandstone amphitheater draped in ferns and moss. A paved, partially accessible 0.5-mile trail leads from the parking area to a scenic overlook above the falls, with stone steps descending into the canyon for a closer view. Spring snowmelt and heavy rains create the most dramatic flow, though the falls run year-round.
Hiking: 40 Miles Through Bluffs and Valleys
Governor Dodge’s extensive trail system is one of the finest in Wisconsin’s Driftless Area, traversing wooded bluffs, rolling prairies, and deep rock-walled canyons.
Top Trails
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stephens’ Falls Trail | 0.5 miles | Easy | Waterfall, fern-covered canyon, overlook |
| Lost Canyon Trail | 3.0 miles loop | Moderate | Deep canyon, steep grades, wooded ravines |
| Cave Trail | 1.0 miles | Easy | Thomas’ Cave access, Twin Valley Lake views |
| Pine Cliff Trail | 4.5 miles | Challenging | Rocky bluffs, Cox Hollow Lake overlook |
| Meadow Valley Trail | 5.0 miles | Moderate | Heart of the park, connects to caves |
| Uplands Trail | 2.5 miles loop | Easy | Prairie and forest, good for snowshoeing |
| Mill Creek Loop | 3.2 miles | Moderate | Wooded creek valley |
All trails are open for hiking, with some designated for mountain biking and horseback riding. In winter, trails are groomed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Sandstone Caves: 8,000 Years of Human History
Governor Dodge’s sandstone bluffs contain caves and rock shelters that were used by prehistoric peoples for winter camps over 8,000 years ago. Two caves are accessible from the Meadow Valley Trail:
- Thomas’ Cave (Big Cave): Features a three-foot-high entrance leading to a circular, high-ceilinged chamber. Accessible via the Cave Trail.
- Small Cave: Located beyond a rock shelter northeast of Twin Valley Campground.
Both caves have gates installed to protect hibernating bat populations during the off-season. Please respect closures and never disturb wildlife within the caves.
Twin Lakes: Swimming, Fishing, and Boating
Two man-made lakes provide the park’s water recreation centerpiece:
Lake Comparison
| Lake | Size | Activities | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cox Hollow Lake | 75 acres | Swimming, fishing, canoeing | Sandy beach, bathhouse, non-motorized boats |
| Twin Valley Lake | 25 acres | Swimming, fishing, canoeing | Sandy beach, bathhouse, scenic bluff backdrop |
Both lakes are stocked with panfish, bass, and catfish. Non-motorized boats and electric motors are permitted. Two designated pet swimming areas make this a particularly dog-friendly park.
Camping: 273 Sites Among the Bluffs
Governor Dodge offers one of the largest campground complexes in Wisconsin’s state park system.
Campground Options
| Campground | Sites | Season | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cox Hollow | 118 | Seasonal | RVs up to 45 ft, water, dump station, showers |
| Twin Valley | 149 (78 electric) | Year-round (30 winter sites) | Pull-thru, 30-amp, showers, plowed winter roads |
| Backpack Sites | 6 | Seasonal | 0.5 mi from parking, pit toilets |
| Horse Camp | 11 family + 2 group | Seasonal | Equestrian access |
| Group Sites | 8 | Seasonal | Large group gatherings |
Visitor Information
Getting There
Governor Dodge State Park is located at 4175 State Hwy 23 N, Dodgeville, WI 53533, approximately 45 minutes west of Madison via Highway 18/151.
Fees
A Wisconsin State Parks vehicle sticker is required: $8 daily (in-state) or $11 daily (out-of-state). Annual stickers available.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring (May–June) for waterfall flow and wildflowers. Summer for lake swimming. October for spectacular Driftless Area fall foliage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I explore the caves at Governor Dodge?
Yes, Thomas’ Cave (Big Cave) and a smaller cave are accessible from the Meadow Valley and Cave Trails. However, caves may be seasonally gated to protect hibernating bats. Always check at the park office for current access status.
Is swimming available at Governor Dodge?
Yes! Both Cox Hollow Lake and Twin Valley Lake have designated swimming beaches with bathhouses. Beaches are open from 6 AM to 11 PM with no lifeguards on duty. Two pet swimming areas are also available for dogs.
Can I camp here in winter?
Yes! Twin Valley Campground keeps 30 sites open year-round with plowed roads and parking. Modern restrooms are closed in winter, but vault toilets remain available. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
