Hidden Natural Gems Near Wisconsin Dells
While the Dells are famous for waterparks, the surrounding area has many lesser-known natural treasures that visitors love discovering. Learn about these treasures and how many are perfect for families with kids and grandparents and grandkids to enjoy.
Mirror Lake State Park
Located only 1.7 miles from Dell Pines Campground, Mirror Lake State Park is one of the area’s best spots for families looking to slow down, enjoy nature, and spend time on the water.
While nearby Devil’s Lake is known for its dramatic bluff hikes and busy beaches, Mirror Lake offers a quieter and more peaceful outdoor experience. The park is famous for its calm water, beautiful sandstone cliffs, wooded hiking trails, and relaxing atmosphere that makes it especially popular with families, kayakers, beach-goers, and paddleboarders.
One of the highlights of the park is Echo Rock, a scenic sandstone formation overlooking the lake. The trail to Echo Rock is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for families with young children or visitors looking for an easier walk with rewarding views.
Mirror Lake is also one of the best places in the area for:
paddleboarding
canoeing
kayaking
relaxing lakeside picnics
easy scenic hiking
excellent fishing for pan-fish, bass and northern pike
This no-wake lake makes it especially beginner-friendly for families trying canoeing, paddleboarding or kayaking for the first time.
Canoe and kayak rentals are available right at the park, making it easy to spend a few hours exploring the water. One of the things visitors love most is that paddling can take you beyond the main lake and into a peaceful, wide-stream section surrounded by trees and nature. In some areas it feels surprisingly quiet and secluded — almost like discovering your own private stretch of wilderness.
The park also hosts events throughout the year, including the popular S’more Fun Trail Run (1-mile kids fun run, 5k walk, 5k run and 10k run) the first Saturday in October, which combines scenic trails, outdoor fun, and campfire-themed treats in a uniquely Wisconsin way.
Things campers especially enjoy:
just a few minutes to Dell Pines
calm water for beginner paddlers
wildlife spotting and birdwatching
quieter atmosphere than many larger parks
Recommended for:
families with all ages of children
grandparents and grandkids
nature-loving campers
paddleboarders, kayakers and canoers
hikers
Directions to Mirror Lake State Park
Parfrey’s Glen State Natural Area
Parfrey’s Glen is one of the area’s most unique hidden gems and a favorite adventure for many Dell Pines campers. This scenic gorge 1.6-mile round-trip hike follows a gentle flowing stream through towering moss-covered sandstone walls, creating a peaceful, almost storybook-like setting.
The first part of the hike is an easy walk along a crushed gravel trail, making it great for families with young children and even sturdy strollers. Along the way, you’ll hear birds singing, spot native wildflowers, and enjoy the cool shade of the gorge.
As you get closer to the end, the adventure really begins. The final stretch requires crossing the stream by balancing from rock to rock and climbing through large boulders to reach the small waterfall tucked deep inside the gorge. Active kids especially love this part of the hike, and most families agree the view at the end is well worth the effort.
Parfrey’s Glen is also known for its rare plants and unique microclimate, including the delicate snow trillium and other uncommon wildflowers that thrive in the cool, damp canyon environment.
Be sure to wear shoes that can get a little wet!
Recommended for those who enjoy nature walks and waterfalls
Note Pets are not permitted and you’ll need a state park pass.
Directions to Parfrey's Glen
Pewit’s Nest
Pewit’s Nest is one of the most beautiful and photographed natural spots in the Baraboo area. This short but scenic hike follows Skillet Creek as it winds through a dramatic sandstone gorge filled with crystal-clear water, towering rock walls, and peaceful wooded scenery.
The walk to the gorge is relatively short and family-friendly, making it a great adventure even for younger kids. Most visitors can reach the main overlook area within about 10–15 minutes from the parking lot. Along the trail, you’ll hear the rushing water, especially after a big rain and catch glimpses of the creek as it cuts its way through the narrow canyon below. One of our favorite things is to take our shoes off and wade in the pooled area of the stream near the beginning of the trail.
Because of its natural beauty, Pewit’s Nest has become one of the most photographed locations near Baraboo and Wisconsin Dells. It’s a favorite spot for family photos, nature photography, and simply slowing down to enjoy the scenery during every season of the year.
Recommended for those who enjoy easy nature walks, scenic overlooks, and unique geological features without committing to a long hike.
Directions to Pewit's Nest
International Crane Foundation
The International Crane Foundation is one of the most unique and memorable attractions near Baraboo — a peaceful, beautiful place where families can experience rare wildlife from around the world while learning about an incredible conservation mission. It’s one of those place that people are often unsure if they’ll enjoy, but end up being thrilled they went!
Located just 2 minutes west on the same road as Dell Pines Campground, the foundation and educational center is the only place in the world where visitors can see all 15 species of cranes together in one location. From the delicate Blue Crane to the tall and striking Whooping Crane, these birds are truly spectacular to see up close. Their size, colors, calls, and graceful movements make them fascinating for both kids and adults.
Here you’ll discover cranes from Asia, Africa, Australia, and North America while learning how the foundation has played a major role in helping save endangered cranes from extinction, especially the endangered Whooping Crane. One of the most fascinating parts of their conservation work involves raising young cranes and helping teach them migration routes. Some visitors may remember the inspiring movie “Fly Away Home”, which introduced many people to the idea of humans guiding young birds south for migration using ultralight aircraft — similar techniques have also been used in real-life crane conservation efforts connected to Wisconsin.
Beyond the birds themselves, the property is simply beautiful to explore. The grounds feature acres of peaceful walking trails, restored prairie landscapes, colorful wildflower gardens, and shaded picnic areas that make it easy to spend several relaxing hours there.
Depending on the season, you may see:
cranes performing elaborate dances and calls
·young cranes being raised as part of conservation programs
blooming prairie flowers and native grasses
butterflies and pollinators
Many Dell Pines campers are surprised by how much they enjoy their visit here, even if they didn’t originally consider themselves “bird people.” There’s something pretty special about seeing these rare and endangered birds up close while learning about the global effort to protect them for future generations.
Recommended for:
nature-loving families
birdwatchers and photographers
grandparents visiting with grandchildren
anyone looking for a peaceful and meaningful outdoor experience