Barker-Stewart Island Park
A tranquil 15-acre island park on the Wisconsin River, featuring lighted trails, historic signs, and charming resident goats.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Flowers bloom, goats are active
Barker-Stewart Island Park
Best Time
Flowers bloom, goats are active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil 15-acre island park on the Wisconsin River, featuring lighted trails, historic signs, and charming resident goats.
"A nice, peaceful park in the middle of the Wisconsin River with great water views and a bunch of goats."
🐐 Goat Spotting Fun
Keep an eye out for the park's resident goats – they're a unique and charming part of the experience!
🚶♀️ Easy Walking Trails
Enjoy a peaceful stroll on the cleared walking paths, perfect for a relaxing break.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Goat Encounters
Throughout the park
Enjoy the unique sight of resident goats grazing, adding a whimsical touch to your park visit. A delightful surprise for all ages!
Historic Sawmill Ruins
Island interior
Explore the remnants of a bygone era with the fascinating ruins of an old sawmill, offering a glimpse into the island's industrial past.
Waterfront Views
Along the trails
Take in picturesque views of the Wisconsin River, offering a serene backdrop for your walk or bike ride.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Discover Island History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐐 Goat Spotting Fun
Keep an eye out for the park's resident goats – they're a unique and charming part of the experience!
🚶♀️ Easy Walking Trails
Enjoy a peaceful stroll on the cleared walking paths, perfect for a relaxing break.
🚲 Bike-Friendly Paths
The park is great for a leisurely bike ride, offering a pleasant way to explore the island.
📜 Learn Island History
Don't miss the interpretive signs sharing the park's fascinating history, including the old sawmill.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐐 Goat Spotting Fun
Keep an eye out for the park's resident goats – they're a unique and charming part of the experience!
🚶♀️ Easy Walking Trails
Enjoy a peaceful stroll on the cleared walking paths, perfect for a relaxing break.
🚲 Bike-Friendly Paths
The park is great for a leisurely bike ride, offering a pleasant way to explore the island.
📜 Learn Island History
Don't miss the interpretive signs sharing the park's fascinating history, including the old sawmill.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Barker-Stewart Island Park for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic river views, and the unique charm of its resident goats. It's considered a lovely spot for a quiet walk or bike ride, offering a serene escape within the city. Some note its small size and limited attractions beyond nature and history.
"A nice, peaceful park in the middle of the Wisconsin River with great water views, plenty of flowers, and (currently) a bunch of goats.
There's a short loop here, the ruins of an old sawmill, but not a lot else going on. A good spot for bird watching (and goat watching), and to get away from the city. It's serene here.
A few Pokestops and gyms."
Nathan Flaminio
"Visited Wausau for a hockey tournament and took a walk in between games. Very peaceful walk and paths were cleared of the snow."
Forrest Nation
"Small but interesting place to get some peace in the middle of town."
Steve Hill
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barker-Stewart Island Park is located in the middle of the Wisconsin River, accessible via a pedestrian bridge. Parking is available nearby, making it easy to reach for a walk or bike ride.
Yes, there is parking available near the pedestrian bridge that leads to the island, making access convenient for visitors.
The park's walking paths are often cleared of snow, allowing for year-round access for peaceful walks, even in winter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Barker-Stewart Island Park is a public park and does not typically have an entrance fee, making it a free and accessible destination.
As a public park, Barker-Stewart Island Park is generally open from dawn until dusk, offering ample time for visitors to enjoy its amenities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy peaceful walks on lighted trails, observe the historic interpretive signs, see the ruins of an old sawmill, and watch the park's resident goats. It's also a good spot for bird watching.
Yes, the park features lighted walking trails that are well-maintained and offer a serene environment for a stroll or a bike ride.
The park's natural setting on the Wisconsin River makes it a pleasant spot for bird watching, offering a peaceful environment to observe local avian life.
A unique feature is the presence of resident goats that roam the island, adding a delightful and unexpected element to the park experience.
The park offers scenic river views, historic ruins, and the charming goats, making it a picturesque location for photography enthusiasts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Barker-Stewart Island Park is a natural space and does not have on-site dining facilities. Visitors are advised to bring their own snacks or plan to dine in nearby Wausau.
While there are no designated picnic areas, visitors are welcome to bring their own food for a picnic, enjoying the serene atmosphere. Remember to pack out all trash.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit