Chippewa River sunset
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Brunet Island State Park

4.8
·735 reviews·Cornell, United States

A 1,300-acre riverside park offering camping, kayaking, hiking, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for water lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Chippewa River sunset

Brunet Island State Park

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 1,300-acre riverside park offering camping, kayaking, hiking, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for water lovers and nature enthusiasts.

4.8
(735 reviews)

"Awesome State Park! Love being able to camp right near the water."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Campsites Early

Popular campsites, especially those with electric, fill up fast. Reserve months in advance!

🛶 Kayak & Canoe Friendly

The park is ideal for paddlers. Rentals are available, and the calm rivers are perfect for exploration.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chippewa River Kayaking

Chippewa River Kayaking

Cornell Flowage

Paddle through scenic waterways, explore inlets, and enjoy calm waters perfect for all skill levels. Kayak rentals available!

TikTok
Island Exploration

Island Exploration

Brunet Island

Hike or bike across the island, discovering water views, wildlife, and a small beach. Don't miss the Nordic Trail!

Reddit
Riverside Camping

Riverside Camping

Campgrounds

Spacious, clean campsites, many with water access. Enjoy the chill vibe and abundant chipmunks!

Reddit
Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife Spotting

Throughout the park

Keep an eye out for deer swimming across rivers, cute chipmunks, and diverse birdlife.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Book Ahead

Brunet Island State Park is a popular spot, especially for camping. Booking your campsite well in advance is crucial, particularly for peak season. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience. Reddit

Embrace the Waterways

The park is surrounded by rivers, making it a kayaker's and boater's paradise. Easy kayak rentals are available, and the calm waters are perfect for all skill levels. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Cooler temps, calm water
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Beautiful colors, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pocket-Sized Adventures: Kayaking at Brunet Island State Park 📍Cornell, WI 🛶Easy kayak rentals available right at the park office 🌊 Accessible launch makes it easy for everyone to enjoy 🐠 Paddle through the scenic Cornell Flowage 🧺 Wrap up your adventure with a lakeside picnic Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or trying it for the first time, Brunet Island State Park offers a smooth launch into...
gochippewacounty
22 likes • 476 views

🎯 Book Campsites Early

Popular campsites, especially those with electric, fill up fast. Reserve months in advance! Reddit

🛶 Kayak & Canoe Friendly

The park is ideal for paddlers. Rentals are available, and the calm rivers are perfect for exploration. TikTok

Gorgeous Brunet Island State Park. Thank you for the music @elysian_stew ! #stateparks #wisconsin #brunetislandstatepark #lake #mirror #reflection #trees #upsidedown #lakelife #hiking #gooutside #naturenurtures @explorewisconsin @discoverwisconsin @wi_dnr
trailsandtravelswithlea
14 likes • 151 views
Brunet Island State Park ➡️ June 1-2 Third camping trip of the season! 🏕️ This was a perfect camping trip. Rain stopped once we got to the campsite. Set up camp then took the bikes out for a 15 mile bike ride. The entire ride I pulled Indy behind my bike in her #burleytailwagon and let’s just say my legs were toast once I was done. Cooked fingerling potatoes, chicken and veggies over the fire in...
katietheoutdoorcreative
6 likes • 246 views

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the island trails and surrounding areas. You'll want to be comfortable for hiking and biking. Instagram

🐿️ Wildlife Encounters

Watch for deer, chipmunks, and other animals. Remember to observe from a distance and not feed them. Reddit

Brunet Island State Park, Wisconsin
simaofamily
3 likes • 62 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Campsites Early

Popular campsites, especially those with electric, fill up fast. Reserve months in advance! Reddit

🛶 Kayak & Canoe Friendly

The park is ideal for paddlers. Rentals are available, and the calm rivers are perfect for exploration. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the island trails and surrounding areas. You'll want to be comfortable for hiking and biking. Instagram

🐿️ Wildlife Encounters

Watch for deer, chipmunks, and other animals. Remember to observe from a distance and not feed them. Reddit

🔋 Power Up Your Stay

If you need power for devices, consider a portable battery pack for quieter, cooler campsites. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(735 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Brunet Island State Park for its beautiful riverside camping, abundant wildlife, and excellent opportunities for kayaking and exploring the island's trails. The park offers a peaceful and scenic escape, though some note the limited number of showers and recommend booking campsites well in advance due to popularity.

"Took advantage of warmer temps to log some IAT miles. Nice to have access to electric to heat my little camper...not to mention, no crowds! I'm sure that isn't the case during the peak months!! Great opportunity to get a photo of the Milky Way! Close to town for easy access to Cornell businesses and fairly close access to IAT segments in the area!"

Jane Wakefield

"Great camping ground for bonding and great times! Located near a VERY small town, making it very chill! At our camp site, there was lots of cute chipmunks! The only thing I disagree with is the 2 showers/flush bathrooms (1 bathroom with flush and shower and 1 that’s just flush) in an area with a bunch of RVs with showers and I would just suggest at the showers/flush bathrooms should be in the campsites with no access to showers and no pit bathrooms. Overall a very good area for kids and families!"

Al3x

"Awesome State Park! Love being able to camp right near the water. Campground was clean and spacious and most importantly dog friendly 😁👍🐕‍🦺 When I took my dog out at 5 am, and walked towards the bridge I heard a big plunk in the water. It was a deer swimming across to an island. He got out snorted and ran off. It was so cool. Will definitely camp here again!"

Teri Curry

What People Like

Beautiful riverside camping
Abundant wildlife sightings
Great for kayaking/paddling

What People Dislike

Limited shower facilities
Campsites book quickly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Brunet Island State Park is located near Cornell, Wisconsin. You can reach it by car via US-12 W and WI-27 N. The park is well-signed from the main roads. Reddit

Yes, there is plenty of parking available throughout the park, including near trailheads and the beach area. Reddit

The park is accessible for RVs, and many campsites offer electric hookups. Some Reddit users noted that campsites on the north side can be quieter. InstagramReddit

The closest town is Cornell, Wisconsin, which offers businesses and amenities. It's a small, chill town. Reddit

Public transport options are limited in this rural area. Driving is the most practical way to reach Brunet Island State Park. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Wisconsin State Parks typically require a state park admission sticker. You can purchase daily or annual stickers at the park office or online. Reddit

State parks are generally open year-round from 6 AM to 11 PM. However, camping facilities and the park office have specific operating hours. Reddit

Campsites can be booked online through the Wisconsin DNR website or by calling the park office. It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for weekends and holidays. Reddit

Yes, the park offers various campsites, including those with electric hookups, which are popular for RVs and campers needing power. Some sites are more secluded. InstagramReddit

While walk-in sites may be available, it's not guaranteed, especially during peak season. Booking ahead is strongly advised to secure a spot. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, boating, and camping. There's also a small beach and playground. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, the park offers easy-going hiking trails, particularly on the island, with beautiful water views. Reddit

Yes, the park is dog-friendly! Many campers enjoy bringing their furry friends along. Reddit

There are flush bathrooms and showers available, though some visitors noted a limited number for the size of the campground. Reddit

There is a small beach area where you can swim. The surrounding rivers also offer opportunities for water activities. Reddit

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Boating

Fishing is popular in the Chippewa and Fisher Rivers, offering opportunities for various freshwater species. Reddit

Yes, there are boating access points. The Cornell Flowage is ideal for boating and paddling. TikTok

While kayak rentals are available, boat rentals are not explicitly mentioned. It's best to bring your own or check with local outfitters. TikTok

Yes, a valid Wisconsin fishing license is required for anyone fishing in the park's waters. Reddit

Many campsites offer direct water access, making them great fishing spots. Exploring the river inlets can also be fruitful. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The park offers stunning reflections on the water, especially during calm mornings, and opportunities to photograph wildlife. InstagramReddit

Yes, with minimal light pollution, Brunet Island State Park can be a great spot for astrophotography, including capturing the Milky Way. Reddit

Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for landscape photography, while early mornings are ideal for capturing reflections and wildlife. Instagram

The island trails provide numerous vantage points with water views. The bridge areas also offer scenic perspectives. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod is recommended for low-light photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Brunet Island State Park is a fantastic destination for families. The easy-going hiking trails on the island are perfect for little legs, and the small beach area offers a fun spot for kids to play and swim. Reddit The park's calm waterways are ideal for introducing children to kayaking or canoeing, with rentals available for convenience. TikTok Many campsites are spacious and close to the water, allowing families to enjoy the natural surroundings together. Keep an eye out for the abundant chipmunks, which are always a hit with younger visitors! Reddit

🛶 Paddlers and Boaters

If you love being on the water, Brunet Island State Park is your paradise. The park is surrounded by the Chippewa and Fisher Rivers, offering excellent conditions for kayaking, canoeing, and boating. TikTok Easy kayak rentals are available on-site, making it simple to get out on the Cornell Flowage. Explore numerous inlets, enjoy the calm water, and take in the scenic beauty. Reddit The park also provides boat launch access for those bringing their own vessels. It's an ideal spot for a day of aquatic exploration or a relaxing paddle. Reddit

🏕️ Campers Seeking Tranquility

For campers looking for a peaceful retreat, Brunet Island State Park offers a serene environment. Many campsites are situated near the water, providing a tranquil backdrop for your stay. Reddit While popular, booking weekdays or during shoulder seasons can lead to a less crowded and more relaxed experience. Reddit Some campers prefer the quieter, cooler north side of the campground. Instagram Enjoy the sounds of nature, the fresh air, and the opportunity to disconnect. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Kayaking and Boating Adventures

Brunet Island State Park is a paddler's dream, nestled between the Chippewa and Fisher Rivers. The park offers easy access to the Cornell Flowage, a calm and scenic body of water perfect for kayaking and canoeing. Easy kayak rentals are available right at the park office, making it convenient for spontaneous adventures. TikTok Explore numerous small inlets, enjoy the tranquil water, and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you. Many visitors rave about the ease of paddling upstream and discovering hidden coves. Reddit

For those with their own watercraft, boat launch sites are available. The calm waters are suitable for a variety of boats, allowing you to explore further along the rivers. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or trying it for the first time, the park's waterways provide an accessible and enjoyable experience. Remember to check water conditions and always prioritize safety. TikTokReddit

Camping at Brunet Island

Camping is a major draw at Brunet Island State Park, with numerous campsites offering a chance to immerse yourself in nature. Many sites are located right near the water, providing beautiful views and easy access for fishing or launching kayaks. Reddit The campgrounds are described as clean and spacious, with some sites offering electric hookups, which are particularly popular for RVs and those needing power for devices. InstagramReddit

Campers often mention the 'chill' atmosphere of the park, especially in the smaller town nearby. You might even encounter friendly chipmunks at your campsite! Reddit While the park offers a good number of amenities, some visitors have noted that the number of showers and flush bathrooms might be limited relative to the number of RV sites. Reddit Booking your campsite well in advance is highly recommended, as popular spots, especially those with electric, tend to fill up quickly, particularly during peak season. Reddit

Exploring the Island Trails

The heart of Brunet Island State Park lies within the island itself, offering a network of trails perfect for hiking and biking. These trails provide a fantastic opportunity to explore the park's natural beauty, with many offering great water views all around. Reddit Visitors can traverse the entire island, discovering its diverse landscapes and keeping an eye out for local wildlife. Reddit

While the park has various trails, the Nordic Trail is a notable option for those seeking a more dedicated hiking experience. Even if you don't have time for the full Nordic Trail, exploring other paths on the island is well worth the visit. The trails are generally described as easy-going, making them accessible for most visitors, including families. Reddit Remember to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a pleasant walk or bike ride through the scenic surroundings. Instagram

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