Governor Dodge State Park
Explore 5,350 acres of sandstone bluffs, lakes, waterfalls, and miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful hikes
Governor Dodge State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful hikes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 5,350 acres of sandstone bluffs, lakes, waterfalls, and miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
"A beautiful state park with plenty of options for hiking and enjoying nature's scenery."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be steep & rocky, especially to Stephens Falls. Wear good hiking shoes!
💧 Bug Spray is Your Friend
Mosquitoes can be intense near lakes after dark. Pack repellent!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stephens Falls
Stephens Falls Trail
A picturesque waterfall, especially stunning when partially frozen in winter. The trail can be steep and rocky.
Lost Canyon Trail
Lost Canyon Trail
Explore fascinating rock formations and a small waterfall on this scenic and well-maintained trail.
Cox Hollow Lake Beach
Cox Hollow Lake
A popular spot for swimming and relaxing, offering a great way to cool off on a warm day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be steep & rocky, especially to Stephens Falls. Wear good hiking shoes!
💧 Bug Spray is Your Friend
Mosquitoes can be intense near lakes after dark. Pack repellent!
🗺️ Check Trail Conditions
Multi-use trails can get muddy. Be aware of horse droppings on shared paths.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Beautiful meadows and rock formations make for great photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be steep & rocky, especially to Stephens Falls. Wear good hiking shoes!
💧 Bug Spray is Your Friend
Mosquitoes can be intense near lakes after dark. Pack repellent!
🗺️ Check Trail Conditions
Multi-use trails can get muddy. Be aware of horse droppings on shared paths.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Beautiful meadows and rock formations make for great photos.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking and picnic areas throughout the park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Governor Dodge State Park for its stunning natural beauty, diverse hiking trails, and recreational opportunities like swimming and camping. The Stephens Falls and Lost Canyon trails are frequently highlighted. However, some users note challenges with steep or muddy trails and occasional water quality issues at the lakes.
"Beautiful state park. We went to see Stephen’s Falls. The climb down to the bottom is very steep, but has a railing. There are no actual steps, but just stones and rocks, so watching your footing is essential. The trail here is dirt, mud and rocks. You cannot bring a stroller or wheelchair down/up this waterfall trail. The meadows and all around scenery is spectacular. I love the two beaches we saw there. The campgrounds looked well maintained with large wooded sites and large grassy sites as well."
Helen Glasner
"Amazing location with plenty of options for hiking. Haven't been there in years but we'll worth the visit. Plenty of parking and picnic areas available throughout. Love the Stephen's Falls trail and scenery. The pups loved the walk and taking in all the new places to explore."
Emily Wakefield
"Had a good and bad time this week at Governor Dodge State Park. The good was the campsites were nice, quiet and great for star gazing on Tuesday night. We saw a few shooting stars. Bugs were not a problem at the campsite, but when we went kayaking on Twin Valley Lake, they ate me alive while tying the kayaks down after dark. It was my fault since the bugs never bothered us after dark at our campsite, so I had not sprayed. Everyone who sprayed had no bites. Our kayaking trip on Twin Valley was due to a sign on Cox Hollow for high ecoli in the water at the dog beach. Although there were a lot of people swimming at the swim beach which is right next to it. I'm not sure how the high level of ecoli is contained to just the dog beach. Twin Valley water was not what I would have swam in lots of floating scum and very green water, but that beach was also full. Ran into locals at the launch and said the local paper had both beaches closed due to ecoli. Now for my complaint. I am all for multi use trails and have hiked them all over the state. The issue that I am complaining about is from the only trail that allows you to access the Cave Trail. That trail is a multi use trail, and I feel if I have to pick up after my dog, it's about time that horse riders pick up after their horses. I know there are ways for riders to take care of this, and I think it's time the DNR starts enforcing it in all the parks that allow horses. I love riding horses, and I'm not looking to start an argument. I just don't want to have to walk around a huge pile in the middle or all over a trail. Also, the park needs to address the wet areas on these multi use trails since it doesn't take long for it to be torn up by horses or mountain bikes. It didn't take long, and there was ankle deep mud. We needed to walk in the bushes to get through. Picture shows the large pile of horse 💩. I hope everyone can work together to keep these trails for multi use by doing their part."
John Rindfleisch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Governor Dodge State Park is located in Dodgeville, Wisconsin. It's about 3 hours from Chicago 
Yes, Governor Dodge State Park is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome on trails and in many areas of the park, but always keep them on a leash.
Popular hiking trails include the Stephens Falls Trail for its waterfall views Many users recommend these for their scenic beauty.
Yes, Governor Dodge State Park offers equestrian trails and a horse campground, making it a great destination for horseback riding enthusiasts.
While not within the park itself, the nearby Don Q Inn in Dodgeville offers unique themed suites, such as the 'Jungle Suite' or 'Tranquility 2' room, for a memorable stay. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for Governor Dodge State Park is $8 per vehicle.
Typically, you can pay the admission fee upon arrival. However, for camping or specific group events, advance booking might be recommended, especially during peak season.
State parks in Wisconsin are generally open from 6 AM to 11 PM daily. It's always a good idea to check the official Wisconsin DNR website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
While Cox Hollow Lake has a swim beach, there have been reports of high E. coli levels at the dog beach, and potentially at the main swim beach during certain times. It's advisable to check local advisories before swimming.
Yes, you can bring your own kayaks and canoes to enjoy on Twin Valley Lake or Cox Hollow Lake. There are launch points available.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Governor Dodge State Park offers a wide range of activities including hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, picnicking, camping, and horseback riding.
Yes, the park offers various camping options, including regular campsites and backpack sites.
The terrain varies, with some trails featuring significant elevation changes and rocky, muddy sections. The Stephens Falls trail is particularly steep.
Yes, the park has miles of trails that are suitable for trail running, offering a challenging and scenic experience.
While not guaranteed, visitors have reported seeing various wildlife. The park's natural setting provides habitat for many species.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park has a concession stand by the beach, which is convenient for snacks and drinks. For full meals, you'll need to venture to nearby Dodgeville or other surrounding towns.
Absolutely! There are plenty of picnic areas available throughout the park, making it a great spot for a family outing or a relaxed lunch amidst nature.
Dodgeville offers various local eateries and restaurants. You can find everything from casual diners to more established restaurants for a post-park meal.
Yes, there are grocery stores in Dodgeville where you can stock up on food and supplies for camping or picnics.
Campfires are generally permitted at designated campsites, provided there are no fire bans in effect. Firewood can usually be purchased at the park or nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
Stephens Falls is a prime spot, especially with its winter ice formations. and the scenic lake views also offer great photographic opportunities.
The park's natural environment supports various wildlife. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times for spotting and photographing animals.
Nature photography, landscape shots, and action shots (like bouldering
While not widely advertised, local photography groups might organize outings. It's worth checking local community boards or photography clubs in the region.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for landscapes. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details on trails.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Stephens Falls Trail is beautiful, the steep and rocky terrain might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues; consider carrying them or opting for easier trails. Picnic areas are abundant, making it easy to enjoy a family meal amidst nature.
💰 Budget Travelers
Camping options, including backpack sites, offer an affordable way to stay overnight and immerse yourself in nature.Packing your own food for picnics and cooking at your campsite will significantly cut down on expenses. The park provides ample picnic areas and facilities for preparing meals. Focusing on hiking and enjoying the natural scenery are free activities that offer immense value.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
While the park itself is focused on nature, the nearby Don Q Inn in Dodgeville offers uniquely themed fantasy suites for a memorable and quirky romantic stay, adding a touch of novelty to your getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Governor Dodge
Beyond hiking, the park's multi-use trails are shared by equestrians, mountain bikers, and hikers. While this offers diverse recreational opportunities, it also means being mindful of shared spaces. Some users have noted issues with horse droppings and muddy sections on these trails, emphasizing the need for all users to be considerate and for park management to address maintenance in wet areas.
Trail runners will find the park offers a scenic and demanding environment for their sport. When planning your trail adventures, it's wise to check current conditions, especially after rain, as some areas can become slick or muddy.
Water Activities and Lakeside Fun
However, it's important to be aware of potential water quality advisories. There have been reports of high E. coli levels, particularly at the dog beach, and sometimes affecting the main swim beach as well.Both lakes are suitable for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors can bring their own watercraft, like kayaks and canoes, to explore the waters.
For those who enjoy being on the water, paddleboarding is also an option on Cox Hollow Lake.
The presence of a concession stand near the beach at Cox Hollow Lake adds convenience for visitors enjoying a day by the water, offering snacks and drinks. Camping and Equestrian Facilities
For horse enthusiasts, Governor Dodge State Park features a dedicated horse campground and miles of equestrian trails.
This makes it a prime location for those who wish to bring their horses and explore the park's scenic routes on horseback. The availability of these specialized facilities enhances the park's appeal to a broader range of outdoor recreationists. When camping, especially at the backpack sites, it's important to plan accordingly for amenities like water and restrooms. Also, be prepared for potential insect activity, particularly after dark near the lakes, and consider bringing insect repellent.
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