Entry 98: Pattison State Park: Wisconsin’s Tallest Waterfall and a Legacy of Conservation

Pattison State Park, located just south of Superior, Wisconsin, is not only a haven for outdoor recreation but also a place steeped in cultural and geological significance. The land has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, especially the Ojibwe, who lived in harmony with the rivers, lakes, and forests of the region. The Nemadji River and surrounding waterways served as vital transportation and fishing routes, and the area is still considered sacred to many Native communities today.

The park’s modern history began in 1917 when Martin Pattison, a successful lumber baron and conservationist, donated the land to the state. At a time when logging was destroying much of Wisconsin’s wilderness, Pattison recognized the importance of protecting the towering 165-foot Big Manitou Falls—the tallest waterfall in the state. His gift helped launch the preservation of this extraordinary landscape and sparked a long-standing commitment to conservation.

During the Great Depression in the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) transformed Pattison State Park into a model of sustainable public recreation. The CCC constructed trails, shelters, bridges, and picnic areas that are still in use today, blending utility with a rustic aesthetic that honors the land’s natural contours.

Geologically, the park is just as impressive as it is scenic. The waterfalls were formed nearly 10,000 years ago, shaped by retreating glaciers during the last Ice Age. The dramatic black volcanic basalt over which the waterfalls plunge is a striking contrast to the lush, green forests that surround them. Big Manitou and Little Manitou Falls continue to captivate geologists and photographers alike with their powerful flow and ancient rock formations.

Today, Pattison State Park spans over 1,400 acres and offers something for every type of nature lover. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, birdwatching, swimming in Interfalls Lake, and peaceful picnic spots with forest views. The park is also the focus of ongoing restoration work to recover from past windstorms and control invasive species, ensuring the area remains healthy and beautiful for generations to come.

Whether you’re standing at the base of Big Manitou Falls or walking the forest trails once built by the CCC, Pattison State Park offers a deep connection to Wisconsin’s natural and cultural heritage.

Pattison State Park
6294 WI-35, Superior, WI 54880

Other Things to Do Nearby:

Amnicon Falls State Park – Just 20 minutes away, it’s another gem with waterfalls and scenic bridges.
Wisconsin Point – A long, sandy peninsula great for birdwatching and catching a Lake Superior sunrise.
Fairlawn Mansion & Museum – A Victorian-era house museum in Superior with exhibits on local history.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat Nearby:

Anchor Bar – A quirky local burger joint known for its cheap prices and big flavor.
Vintage Italian Pizza (VIP) – A family-friendly pizzeria with hearty portions and casual atmosphere.
Eddie’s World Famous Ribs & BBQ – Great BBQ just off the highway, perfect after a long day of hiking.

Entry 126: A Rainy Night, Birds at Dawn, and the Cozy Joy of Glamping at Ozark RV Park

If you’ve been thinking about trying glamping or need a peaceful base to explore Mountain View, Arkansas, let me share a place you’ll want to add to your list: Ozark RV Park and Cabins. Ozark RV Park & Cabins Call: 870-200-9090 The Glamping Tent I recently stayed in one of their glamping tents, and it was such a fun, comfortable experience. The tent is spacious, set up on a platform with a real bed (on a frame), crisp linens, a fan, air conditioning (yes, you get AC in a tent!), and a Keurig for that first warm cup of coffee in the morning. During my stay, it rained gently, and there is something incredible about falling asleep to the sound of rain on canvas while staying warm and cozy in bed. In the morning, I woke up to the sound of birds and crisp air, peeking outside to a misty, peaceful campground that felt like a breath of fresh air. The Big Park Sign & Rooster The bathhouse on-site deserves a shout-out. It has the nostalgic feel of a summer camp bathhouse but is immacul...

Entry 85: A Quirky Stop in Austin, MN: Exploring the Spam Museum and More

If you’re into quirky attractions and unexpected fun, the Spam Museum in Austin, Minnesota is a must-see. Located at 101 3rd Ave NE , this one-of-a-kind destination has been drawing curious travelers and Spam fans since it opened in 1991. After a major expansion and relocation in 2016, the museum now offers an even more immersive and entertaining experience. A Taste of History Spam was first introduced in 1937 by Hormel Foods , and the museum walks you through how this humble canned meat became a global sensation. It played a major role during World War II , feeding troops across the globe and becoming a beloved staple in households everywhere. Inside the museum, you’ll find a blend of history, pop culture, and international flair . Learn how Spam became a hit in countries like South Korea, the Philippines, and Hawaii. You'll also get a glimpse of the role Spam played in post-war culture and its place in today’s culinary world. Interactive Exhibits and More The Spam Museum is...

Entry 131: From Bonsai to Blooms: A Walk Through Portland’s Gardens

A Stroll Through the Portland Japanese Garden On a quiet morning in downtown Portland, a buddy and I decided to walk from our hotel to the Portland Japanese Garden. The route wound through the city and into Washington Park, and while it was uphill in spots, it was not bad at all. By the time we reached the entrance, we felt like we had already eased into the slower pace the garden promises. Even before I took ten steps inside, the city noise seemed to fade. The air felt cooler and fresher, like the garden had its own climate set apart from the bustle just outside its walls. The path curved gently ahead, leading us past moss-covered stones and neatly raked gravel beds. A small stream gurgled quietly under a wooden footbridge, the sound blending with the soft rustle of leaves overhead. Every turn revealed a new scene, a carefully placed lantern, a cluster of maple trees, or a pond where koi fish drifted lazily through the water. We followed the path uphill to a wide view of the city. Th...

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