🌤 Weather at Pattison State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16–62 °F | 49–78 °F | 23–68 °F | 1–26 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Pattison Ranger Staion, 1 mi away, elevation 1,100 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Pattison State Park is a public state park in Wisconsin near Superior in Douglas County. Spanning 1,436 acres and established in 1920, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Wisconsin |
| Nearest City | Superior |
| County | Douglas |
| Park Size | 1,436 acres |
| Established | 1920 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.7/5 (1300 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Pattison State Park is located near Superior, Wisconsin. The park’s coordinates are 46.5266, -92.1222.
Things to Do
Wisconsin state parks highlight the natural beauty of the upper Midwest — from Great Lakes shorelines and dramatic river bluffs to deep Northwoods forests and glacial landscapes. Popular activities include swimming and sunbathing at pristine Lake Michigan and inland lake beaches, hiking the Ice Age Trail that crosses several parks, fishing for musky, walleye, and bass, camping in quiet pine forests, kayaking the sea caves of the Great Lakes, mountain biking on extensive specialized trail systems, and exploring dramatic limestone cliffs. In winter, Wisconsin parks transform into major hubs for snowmobiling, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–August) is the undisputed peak season for Wisconsin parks, offering the best weather for lake swimming and camping, though popular parks like Devil’s Lake get heavily crowded. Fall (September–October) is spectacular, especially in the northern parks where foliage peaks in late September, offering crisp hiking weather and fewer bugs. Winter (December–March) provides excellent snow cover for Nordic skiing and snowmobiling, particularly in the northern half of the state. Spring (April–May) can be wet and muddy but offers great fishing and quiet trails.
Visitor Tips
A vehicle admission sticker is required at most Wisconsin state parks ($28/year for residents, $38 for non-residents). Annual passes are highly recommended if visiting multiple parks. Camping reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance through the Wisconsin DNR system. Devil’s Lake and Peninsula State Parks are the most visited and their campgrounds often book out entirely for summer weekends by January. Be aware that ticks are prevalent from spring through fall — use insect repellent and check yourself after hiking in grassy or wooded areas.
Explore More Wisconsin State Parks
Pattison 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.
Wildlife & Nature
Pattison SP — home of Big Manitou Falls — at 165 feet, the highest waterfall in Wisconsin (and the 4th-highest east of the Rockies). Little Manitou Falls (31 feet) is also in the park. The park’s gorge, boreal forest, and river support black bears, timber wolves, and bald eagles.
Nearby Attractions
Superior — 12 miles north — at the western tip of Lake Superior. Duluth, MN — across the bay. Amnicon Falls SP — 20 miles east.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Amnicon Falls State Park is a short drive away, and Brule River State Forest is within about an hour’s drive.
⛺ Camping at Pattison State Park: Campgrounds & Cabins
| Campsites | 59 family sites + 3 backpack sites — 59 family sites, 18 with electric hookups; 1 accessible campsite. 3 backpack sites, 1.6 miles from parking, vault toilets, tables, fire rings (no water — must carry in). |
|---|---|
| Reservations | wisconsin.goingtocamp.com or 1-888-947-2757. |
| Special sites | 3 backpack sites (1.6 miles from parking, pack-out garbage). |
| Season notes | Showers and flush toilets available in summer only; sanitary dump station present but no sewer/water hookups at sites. |
Camping questions about Pattison State Park
Can you camp at Pattison State Park?
Yes. Pattison State Park has 59 family sites + 3 backpack sites. 59 family sites, 18 with electric hookups; 1 accessible campsite. 3 backpack sites, 1.6 miles from parking, vault toilets, tables, fire rings (no water — must carry in).
How do you reserve a campsite at Pattison State Park?
wisconsin.goingtocamp.com or 1-888-947-2757.
Source: dnr.wisconsin.gov (verified July 2026). Details change seasonally — confirm when booking.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Pattison State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in most Wisconsin state park campgrounds, trails, roads and outlying areas, but must be leashed and under control at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 8 ft maximum physical leash required at all times (except in designated pet swim areas while the pet is in the water)
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed on public beaches, but over 30 properties (e.g. Devil's Lake, Governor Dodge, Point Beach) have designated pet swim areas
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in buildings, picnic shelters or other structures unless specifically signed as open to pets
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited entirely at Copper Culture, Heritage Hill and Hoffman Hills State Recreation Areas; designated pet picnic areas exist at many properties
Are dogs allowed at Pattison State Park?
Pets are welcome in most Wisconsin state park campgrounds, trails, roads and outlying areas, but must be leashed and under control at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dnr.wisconsin.gov. More: Wisconsin state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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