Wisconsin
Newport State Park
Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated February 2026
Newport State Park is Wisconsin’s only wilderness state park and first International Dark Sky Park—with 16 backpack-only campsites, 30 miles of trails, and 11 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline!
⚠️ Storm Damage (Aug 2025): Campsites 6-13, Ridge Trail, and Rowleys Bay Trail CLOSED indefinitely. Sites 1-5 and 14-16 remain open.
Dark Sky Park
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 🌌 Designation | WI’s first IDA Dark Sky Park (2017) |
| 🔦 Tips | Red-filtered flashlights only! |
| 🌅 Best Viewing | No artificial lighting—arrive early! |
Backpack Camping
ALL 16 sites are hike-in (0.5–3 miles). Carry in everything. No car camping!
Hiking Trails
- 📍 Fern Trail: 1.2mi wheelchair-accessible
- 📖 Poetry Trail: ¾mi with local poets’ works
- 🦋 Monarch Trail: 1.75mi meadow loop
FAQ
Can I drive to my campsite?
No! All sites are hike-in or bike-in only. This is a wilderness park!
🌌 Wisconsin’s Dark Sky Paradise
Reserve at WI State Parks.
Last updated: February 20, 2026
