Collins Park

For many of us Wisconsinites, the arrival of warmer weather sparks a familiar yearning: the desire to escape the daily grind and immerse ourselves in the natural beauty our state so generously offers. Whether you're a seasoned camper, a family looking for a relaxing weekend, or simply someone who cherishes a quiet day by the water, finding that perfect spot is key. Enter Collins Park Campground, a charming county park nestled in Rosholt, Wisconsin. While smaller in scale, this gem offers a tranquil retreat centered around a beautiful lake, making it a fantastic destination for those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.

Collins Park stands out not for its sprawling size, but for its well-maintained facilities and serene atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where the sounds of nature replace the hustle and bustle, and the clear waters of the lake invite you to slow down and enjoy. Locals often speak highly of its inviting environment, whether they’re setting up camp for a few nights or just visiting for a day of picnicking and lakeside fun. It truly embodies the spirit of a community park, providing accessible recreation for all who visit.

One of the most appealing aspects of Collins Park, frequently highlighted by visitors, is its beautiful lake. Described as clear and excellent for kayaking, it offers a refreshing contrast to busier waterways. The "no-wake lake" designation is a significant advantage, ensuring a calm surface ideal for swimming, paddling, and enjoying the abundant birdlife without the disturbance of motorized boat traffic. This feature alone makes it a prime location for families with young children or anyone looking for a genuinely relaxing aquatic experience.

Furthermore, Collins Park is more than just a lake. Reviews consistently praise the well-kept amenities, including nice bathrooms, ample picnic tables, and a playground for the kids. While a recent review noted the campground was temporarily closed, the consistent positive feedback about its camping facilities from others underscores its reputation as a great place to pitch a tent. The dedication to maintaining a clean and peaceful environment is evident, ensuring a pleasant visit for everyone who respects the park's natural setting. The minor note about bringing your own drinking water due to nitrite levels is a small consideration for the overall rewarding experience of this beautiful Wisconsin park.

Collins Park Campground is conveniently located in the heart of Wisconsin, making it an accessible getaway for many residents across the state. The park's official address is 2711 County Rd I, Rosholt, WI 54473, USA. Rosholt itself is a charming village in Portage County, known for its agricultural roots and quiet, rural appeal.

This location places Collins Park within a reasonable driving distance from various larger population centers in Wisconsin. For example, it’s approximately a 25-minute drive northeast of Stevens Point, a larger city with more extensive services and a university. This proximity means visitors can easily stock up on supplies before heading to the park or enjoy a meal in town if they wish. Other cities like Wausau and Green Bay are also within a manageable driving range, making Collins Park an attractive weekend or day trip destination for a significant portion of Wisconsin's population.

Accessibility to Collins Park is generally straightforward, with clear signage guiding visitors once they are in the vicinity of Rosholt. County Road I is a well-maintained road, ensuring easy access for vehicles of all types, including those towing campers or boats. While the park maintains a peaceful atmosphere, it doesn't feel isolated, benefiting from its connection to the local road network. Visitors should always consult a map or GPS for the most precise directions from their specific starting point, but the given address is reliable for navigation. The ease of access contributes significantly to the park's appeal, allowing more Wisconsinites to enjoy its natural offerings without a lengthy or complicated journey.

Collins Park Campground offers a range of services and amenities designed to enhance your outdoor experience, focusing on comfort and convenience within a natural setting. Based on visitor reviews and typical county park offerings, here's what you can expect:

• Camping Facilities: While a recent review mentioned the campground was closed, the general consensus is that it offers a great place to camp. This typically includes designated campsites suitable for tents and possibly smaller RVs. Visitors should inquire about current availability and reservation policies, especially given the mentioned closure.

• Boat Launch: The park boasts a "really nice" boat launch, making it easy for visitors to get their kayaks, canoes, or small fishing boats onto the lake. This is a significant convenience for water enthusiasts.

• Picnic Areas: Abundant picnic tables are available, providing comfortable spots for day-use visitors and campers to enjoy outdoor meals with family and friends.

• Restrooms: Visitors consistently praise the "nice bathrooms," indicating clean and well-maintained facilities, which is a crucial amenity for any campground or park.

• Playground: A dedicated playground area is available for children, ensuring younger visitors have a safe and fun space to play.

• Volleyball Court: For those looking for active recreation on land, a volleyball court provides an opportunity for friendly games.

• Swimming Access: While the beach is noted as "quite small," it still offers a designated area for swimming in the clear, no-wake lake.

• Water Access (Drinking/Cooking): It's important to note that visitors need to bring their own water for cooking and drinking due to high nitrite levels in the park's water supply. This is a vital piece of information for planning your trip.

Collins Park's charm lies in its carefully curated features that emphasize tranquility and natural beauty, making it a standout destination for a specific type of outdoor enthusiast.

• No-Wake Lake: This is arguably the most significant highlight. The absence of motorized boat wakes ensures exceptionally calm waters, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing without disturbance. It creates a genuinely peaceful lakeside experience.

• Beautiful, Clear Water: The lake's clear water enhances the experience for swimmers and paddlers, allowing for better visibility and a more enjoyable connection with the aquatic environment.

• Birdwatching Opportunities: With "lots of birds to see," Collins Park is a fantastic spot for birdwatchers. The calm lake and natural surroundings provide an ideal habitat for various avian species, offering a tranquil observation experience.

• Smaller, Peaceful County Park: Its relatively smaller size and county park status contribute to a less crowded and more intimate atmosphere compared to larger state parks. This fosters a sense of peace and quiet, which many visitors actively seek.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: The positive reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of the bathrooms and the overall upkeep of the picnic areas and playground, indicating a commitment to visitor comfort and satisfaction.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: The playground and volleyball court, along with the safe swimming conditions of a no-wake lake, make it an excellent choice for families with children of all ages.

• Scenic Environment: The natural beauty of the lake and surrounding trees creates a picturesque setting for relaxation and photography, making every visit a visually pleasing experience.

For more information or to inquire about current campground availability and regulations, please use the following contact details:

Address: 2711 County Rd I, Rosholt, WI 54473, USA

Phone: (715) 677-4504

Mobile Phone: +1 715-677-4504

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially concerning campground status (as a review mentioned it being closed at one point) or for any specific questions about park rules, facilities, or local conditions. The staff can provide the most up-to-date information to help you plan your visit effectively.

Collins Park Campground is perfectly suited for Wisconsinites looking for an authentic and peaceful outdoor experience without having to travel too far from home. Its primary appeal lies in its designation as a smaller, quiet county park with a "no-wake" lake. For locals, this means less crowded spaces and a truly tranquil environment, a stark contrast to the often bustling larger recreational areas. If your ideal day involves paddling a kayak across glassy water, listening to birds, or simply unwinding by a serene lakeside, Collins Park delivers precisely that.

The excellent condition of its facilities, particularly the "nice bathrooms" and well-kept picnic areas, significantly enhances the comfort level, even for those who prefer a more rustic camping experience. For families, the playground and the safe swimming conditions of a no-wake lake are invaluable, providing a worry-free environment for children to enjoy the outdoors. The readily accessible boat launch further sweetens the deal for local paddlers who own their equipment.

Moreover, its location in Portage County, near Stevens Point, means it’s conveniently located for many Central Wisconsin residents. This ease of access encourages spontaneous day trips or last-minute weekend camping adventures, fostering a deeper connection with our local natural resources. Collins Park isn't about grand amenities or expansive wilderness; it's about providing a consistently enjoyable, peaceful, and well-maintained natural retreat right in our backyard. It's a testament to the simple, yet profound, pleasures of Wisconsin's outdoors, making it an ideal local escape for rest and rejuvenation.