Rocky Arbor State Park

Rocky Arbor State Park is a nature preserve in the Wisconsin Dells region featuring exposed sandstone walls and ledges carved by water erosion over time. A small creek flows through the wooded grounds, creating a landscape where rocky outcrops rise above the forest floor.

The park was established in 1932 to protect geological layers dating back 500 million years to an ancient period when shallow inland seas covered this region. The sandstone walls visible today formed during those distant prehistoric times.

The Wisconsin River once carved channels through this area, leaving exposed rock walls before changing course to its current position.

The park provides 89 campsites with 18 featuring electrical hookups, along with shower facilities, flush toilets, a playground, and picnic areas for day visitors. Seasons here bring significant temperature changes that affect trail conditions and camping comfort.

A single loop trail takes visitors through the sandstone outcrops, offering close views of how the rock layers are arranged and exposed. This path connects different elevations across the site, revealing the geology from multiple perspectives.

Location: Juneau County

Location: Sauk County

Inception: 1932

Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/rockyarbor

GPS coordinates: 43.64190,-89.80580

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:07