Photo: Wisconsin DNR
The 89-mile Pine River and its major tributary, the 62-mile Popple River, offer a true wild experience, being among Wisconsin's more remote river systems. The rivers alternate from quiet sections to swift, rocky riffles, low rapids and waterfalls, offering high-quality paddling and fishing in a secluded, natural environment.
Quick answers
When is the best time to visit Pine-Popple Wild Rivers?
It depends on what you came for. Camping is best in June–September, fall color in September–October, boating & paddling in June–September and ATV / UTV / off-road in June–October.
What can you do at Pine-Popple Wild Rivers in each season?
Winter (December–February): fishing, snowmobiling and waterfalls. Spring (March–May): fishing, ATV / UTV / off-road and waterfalls. Summer (June–August): camping, boating & paddling, fishing, ATV / UTV / off-road and waterfalls. Fall (September–November): camping, fall color, boating & paddling, fishing, ATV / UTV / off-road and waterfalls.
Do you need a state park sticker at Pine-Popple Wild Rivers?
No. Pine-Popple Wild Rivers doesn't require a vehicle sticker or a state trail pass.
Can you camp at Pine-Popple Wild Rivers in winter?
Camping here is seasonal, generally May–October. The DNR's pages for this property don't list winter camping.
What state parks and trails are near Pine-Popple Wild Rivers?
The closest state properties, as the crow flies: Nicolet State Trail (33 mi), Menominee River State Recreation Area (33 mi) and Pike Wild River (38 mi).
Good for
- Boating & paddling
- Camping
- Waterfalls
- Fishing
- ATV / UTV / off-road
- Snowmobiling
Best months
January · February · April · May · June · July · August · September · October
Visiting
- Admission: A vehicle admission sticker is not required on the Pine-Popple.
- Hours: Open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. year-round.
- Phone: 715-889-6042
Accessibility
- Accessible campsite -- every developed campground here has at least one
From the DNR's accessibility guide, reviewed October 2026. Call the property to confirm before you go.
Nearby
- Nicolet State Trail (33 mi)
- Menominee River State Recreation Area (33 mi)
- Pike Wild River (38 mi)
- Governor Thompson State Park (40 mi)
- Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest (40 mi)
Closures and alerts for Pine-Popple Wild Rivers: updates · RSS · JSON Feed
Text and park details on this page come from the property's DNR pages, checked every Monday; last change October 24, 2026. Closures and notices load live. Check current conditions before you go.