Menominee River State Park and Recreation Area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Menominee River State Park and Recreation Area |
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 Menominee River State Park and Recreation Area
Location in Wisconsin
Menominee River State Park and Recreation Area
Location in the United States
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| Location | Marinette, Wisconsin, United States |
| Area | 6,563 acres (26.56 km2) |
| Established | 2010 |
| Governing body | Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources |
The Menominee River State Park and Recreation Area is a special state park in Wisconsin, United States. It is still being developed! This park is located along the Menominee River, which forms part of the border between Wisconsin and Michigan.
The park was created in 2010. It works together with the Menominee River State Recreation Area on the Michigan side. This helps protect both sides of the river. The Wisconsin part of the park covers about 6,563 acres (2,656 hectares). It has an undeveloped northern section and a southern part with trails and campsites.
Park History
This protected area started with generous land donations. In 1997, the Richard King Mellon Foundation and The Conservation Fund gave land to both Wisconsin and Michigan. Wisconsin received about 1,922 acres (778 hectares). Michigan received about 2,530 acres (1,024 hectares).
Later, in 2010, Wisconsin bought more land. They purchased about 2,714 acres (1,098 hectares) from the Wisconsin Electric Power Company. This is when the area officially became a state park and recreation area.
Both the Wisconsin and Michigan parks are managed by their state's Department of Natural Resources. These groups work together to plan for the park's future. They want to make sure the park is great for visitors and nature.
Things to Do
The Menominee River is a beautiful place for outdoor fun. It's a "wild and scenic" route, perfect for canoes and kayaks. This part of the river is mostly calm and wide. However, there are a few rapids and a waterfall. You might need to carry your boat around these spots, which is called a portage.
Camping and Fishing
There are three campsites along the river. These are great for paddlers or hikers. You cannot reserve them, so it's first-come, first-served! The river is also a popular spot for fishing. Many people enjoy catching smallmouth bass here.
Trails and Winter Sports
Currently, the park has one main hiking trail. It's called the Pemene Falls Trail. This trail follows old logging roads in some places. It's a great way to explore the park's natural beauty.
In the fall, the park is open for deer hunting during the season. When winter comes, the park transforms into a snowy playground. You can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on the trails.
