Big Foot Beach State Park
A scenic Wisconsin state park on Lake Geneva offering camping, hiking, and a beautiful beach, close to town amenities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Big Foot Beach State Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic Wisconsin state park on Lake Geneva offering camping, hiking, and a beautiful beach, close to town amenities.
"Great spot for a fun and relaxing weekend, especially when booking in advance! "
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Pups are welcome on the trails, but not on the beach itself.
🚗 Vehicle Fees Apply
Be aware that there's a charge for each vehicle entering the park.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Geneva Beach
Lakefront
Enjoy swimming and sunbathing on one of Wisconsin's beautiful sand beaches overlooking the lake.
Wooded Hiking Trails
Throughout the park
Explore scenic trails perfect for a nature stroll, birdwatching, or a refreshing trail run.
Campsite Amenities
Campground
Clean campsites, many with electric and water, offer a comfortable base for exploring.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Understand Beach Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Pups are welcome on the trails, but not on the beach itself.
🚗 Vehicle Fees Apply
Be aware that there's a charge for each vehicle entering the park.
💧 Water Stations
Potable water is available near the dump station for refilling.
🎶 Respect Quiet Hours
Some visitors report noise issues; be mindful of campground guidelines.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Pups are welcome on the trails, but not on the beach itself.
🚗 Vehicle Fees Apply
Be aware that there's a charge for each vehicle entering the park.
💧 Water Stations
Potable water is available near the dump station for refilling.
🎶 Respect Quiet Hours
Some visitors report noise issues; be mindful of campground guidelines.
🛶 Water Activities
Great for swimming, fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking on Lake Geneva.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Big Foot Beach State Park is praised for its convenient location near Lake Geneva, clean campsites with amenities like electricity, and beautiful beach access. However, some visitors note that the park can be noisy due to its proximity to town and that the beach may feel crowded.
"We went camping at Big Foot Beach State Park with family and friends and had an awesome time. The campsites were clean, and some even had electricity and water, which was super convenient. There were about 5–6 showers, and they were surprisingly clean for a campground. One of the best parts was how close it is to Lake Geneva—you can easily get to the beach or head into town for some sightseeing. Great spot for a fun and relaxing weekend!"
Januzak Asangaziev
"Wonderful and scenic state park in southeast Wisconsin. This Wisconsin state park features one of the most beautiful sand beaches in all of Wisconsin. The beach overlooks Lake Geneva, which is a perfect lake for fishing, boating, or for swimming. The park has some decent wooded hiking trails and recreation areas. I think the beach is by far the best feature of the park."
B A
"Very long sites. Enough room for camper and tents. Many sites have electric. None have potable water (but is available near the dump station). Campground is close to a small beach by the campground entrance. Lake Geneva amenities are very close by. Note: There is a charge for each vehicle (including RV)"
Serge Gonzalez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Big Foot Beach State Park is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Chicago, depending on traffic. You can take I-94 W towards Wisconsin and then follow signs for Lake Geneva.
Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach Big Foot Beach State Park.
The most common route from the Chicago area is via I-94 W to Highway 50 W towards Lake Geneva. Always check real-time traffic updates before you leave.
Yes, there are numerous hotels and accommodations in the nearby town of Lake Geneva, offering a range of options for visitors.
Yes, the park is conveniently located just minutes from Downtown Lake Geneva, making it easy to combine outdoor activities with town exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, typical Wisconsin state park fees apply. Vehicles require a daily or annual pass for entry.
The park is generally open year-round from 6 AM to 11 PM. However, specific facilities like campgrounds have their own hours. It's always best to check the official website for the most current information.
Entry fees are per vehicle. While exact prices can vary, expect to pay a daily fee or consider an annual Wisconsin State Park sticker if you plan to visit multiple parks.
Park entry passes can typically be purchased at the park entrance. For camping, reservations are highly recommended and can be made in advance online.
Wisconsin State Parks offer annual passes which can be cost-effective for frequent visitors. Check the Wisconsin DNR website for any specific discount programs.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, hiking on wooded trails, birdwatching, and picnicking. Camping is also a popular activity.
Yes, the park offers several miles of hiking trails, including the blue and yellow trails which form a nice loop.
Yes, the park features a sand beach on Lake Geneva perfect for swimming. However, it can get crowded, and some visitors prefer the town beaches.
Dogs are permitted on the park's trails but are not allowed on the beach area.
The park offers campsites (some with electric/water), playgrounds, shelters, and restrooms with showers.
🎫 🏕️ Camping at Big Foot Beach
Reservations for camping at Big Foot Beach State Park are highly recommended, especially during peak season. You can typically book online through the Wisconsin State Park system.
The park offers various campsites, many with electric hookups and some with water. Sites are generally described as long and spacious.
Yes, the campground has shower facilities, which are noted as being surprisingly clean for a campground.
While some campers seek seclusion, reviews mention that the park's proximity to town can lead to noise from roads and nearby areas.
Specific 'best' spots can be subjective, but sites with electric and water hookups are popular for convenience. Consider proximity to restrooms and the beach when booking.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture scenic shots of the Lake Geneva shoreline, the wooded trails, and the campground. Sunrises and sunsets over the lake can be particularly beautiful.
Yes, the park is a good spot for birdwatching and you might see deer. Remember to maintain a safe distance and respect the animals' space.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing both landscapes and potential wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for scenic vistas.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check park regulations.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the best natural light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing beach activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Camping at the park is also a family-friendly choice, with many sites offering electric and water hookups for added comfort.
🏕️ Budget Travelers
While some campsites have hookups, you can also opt for primitive sites to save money. Bringing your own food and cooking at your campsite will further reduce expenses compared to dining out in town.
🐶 Pet Owners
This is a great perk for pet owners who want to explore the natural beauty of the park with their dogs. However, it's crucial to remember that dogs are not allowed on the beach area.
Always keep your dog leashed within the park and be sure to clean up after them. The nearby town of Lake Geneva also has pet-friendly areas, so you can extend your exploration with your pet. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping at Big Foot Beach State Park
However, it's important to manage expectations regarding serenity. Due to its proximity to the town of Lake Geneva and a busy road, some campers report hearing road noise and town hubbub at their sites.
Key takeaway: Book early, especially for sites with hookups, and be prepared for potential ambient noise from the nearby town. It's a good choice for families and groups looking for a convenient base to explore Lake Geneva.
Exploring the Trails and Beach
These trails wind through wooded areas, providing opportunities for nature observation, including birdwatching and spotting deer. The beach at Big Foot Beach State Park is a significant draw, offering a sandy area for swimming and relaxing by Lake Geneva.
However, reviews indicate that the beach can become quite crowded, especially on busy summer days, and some describe it as small. Pro-tip: While dogs are welcome on the trails, they are not permitted on the beach itself.
Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays for a more peaceful experience on both the trails and the beach. Proximity to Lake Geneva Town
This allows visitors to easily combine their outdoor adventures in the park with the attractions, dining, and shopping opportunities available in town. Many visitors appreciate this blend of nature and urban amenities, making it a well-rounded destination. This proximity means you can spend your morning hiking or relaxing by the lake and then head into town for lunch, explore the shops, or enjoy the sights and sounds of the popular resort area.
It's a great option for those who want the camping experience without being completely isolated from modern conveniences. Consider this: While the closeness to town is a plus for accessibility, it also contributes to some of the ambient noise experienced within the park, as noted in camping reviews.
Social
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