Lake Wissota State Park

This 1,062-acre park combines pine and hardwood forest, lake, prairie and marshland that support 200 avian species. During migration, the 6,300-acre lake is alive with waterfowl: Blue and Green-winged Teal, Northern Pintails, Mallards, Scaup, Mergansers, Northern Shoveler, American Wigeon and American Black Duck. Canada, Snow and Greater White-fronted Geese also use the area along with Trumpeter Swans. Grasses and wildflowers, called forbes, dominate the prairies. Here, look and listen for Willow Flycatchers, Sedge Wrens, Eastern Bluebirds, Northern Harriers, the Common Nighthawk, and our smallest falcon, the American Kestrel. The hardwood forest can be enjoyed via 17 miles of trail.

Directions: From Chippewa Falls, take Hwy. 178 north to Cty. S east. As you cross the bridge over the Chippewa River, turn east on Cty. O two miles to the park.

Gazetteer: Page 61, A-6.

Phone: 715/382-4574.

Web site: Lake Wissota State Park

Signature Species: Pine and Yellow-rumped Warbler, Common Raven.

Seasonality: Open all year.

Parking: Parking lots provided.

Nearest food & lodging: Chippewa Falls, seven miles southwest.

Fee: Park entry and camping fees apply.