Welcome to your public lands! Wisconsin is home to over 15,000 lakes, 84,000 river miles, and countless islands. Many islands in this region were omitted from the original land surveys conducted in the 1830s and 1840s and were later designated as public lands. The BLM manages over 500 islands in the rivers and lakes of
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
This site is free — no fee is charged, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Wisconsin River Islands — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Wisconsin River Islands?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you fish at Wisconsin River Islands?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Wisconsin River Islands. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Wisconsin River Islands?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include East Howard Street, IAT - Portage Canal Segment, IAT - Sauk Point-Portage Canal connection, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Wisconsin River Islands is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Is hunting allowed?
Yes — hunting is permitted here in season, with the required state license and tags. Check seasons and unit rules.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Nearby sites
Leopold Wetland Management District
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
USFWSmidwest / CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Fox River National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
