Perrot State Park
W26247 Sullivan Rd., Trempealeau, Wisconsin

Perrot State Park, where the Trempealeau River meets the Mississippi River, has 1,270 acres of diverse ecosystems. The river bank and surrounding wetlands provide wonderful habitat for the many migratory birds that travel through this area twice a year. Hardwood forests with mature black walnut, oak, and hickory are home to many animals, birds, and woodland wildflowers. Unique to southwestern Wisconsin and Perrot are the goat prairies perched high on the bluffs.

From Brady's Bluff, enjoy the view of Trempealeau Mountain and the Mississippi River valley.
Wisconsin Department of Tourism Photo

History

Native American tribes have lived here for centuries: Archaic, Early Woodland, Hopewellian, and Effigy Mound cultures were some of the earliest residents. Burial mounds can be seen throughout the park and displays in the Nature Center present information about these early cultures.

French Fur trader Nicholas Perrot, for whom the park is named, spent the winter of 1686 here. Years later, in 1731, a French fort was built on the site of Perrot’s winter camp.

Perrot State Park was established in 1918 when John Latsch donated 900 acres at the confluence of the Mississippi and Trempealeau rivers to the people of the State of Wisconsin. The park was officially dedicated in 1927. Many of the stone buildings and trails were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Camp Perrot was active from 1935 to 1937. Remnants of the camp can still be found near the park headquarters.

Things to Do

Perrot State Park has 12.5 miles of hiking trails and 9 miles of cross-country ski trails.

There is a boat landing on the Trempealeau River which has access to Trempealeau Bay and the Mississippi River under a railroad bridge.

A 2-mile canoe trail winds through Trempealeau Bay. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent at the park.

There are 102 campsites, including 38 with electrical hookups and one that’s accessible for people with disabilities. There is a group camp area that accommodates up to 50 people. The campground has flush toilets, showers, and a dump station. Firewood and ice are available to purchase.

The Nature Center has displays created by the Mississippi Valley Archeological Center [exit DNR] about the Native American cultures that have lived here. Naturalist programs may be offered in the summer.

There is direct bicycle access from the campground to the Great River State Trail.

Deer hunting with muzzleloaders is allowed in season in parts of the park with a special permit and under special rules.

In the Area

Buffalo River State Trail
Great River State Trail
Merrick State Park
Trempealeau and Fountain City [exit DNR]—Accommodations, activities, dining, events, and more
Trempealeau Chamber of Commerce [exit DNR]
Trempealeau County Tourism Council [exit DNR]
Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge [exit DNR]
Upper Mississippi National Fish and Wildlife Refuge [exit DNR]

How to Get There

From the north or northwest, go south from Eau Claire on State Highway 93 about 53 miles. At Centerville, where Highway 93 turns east, go south on State Highway 35 (the Great River Road). Take Highway 35 about 5 miles to Trempealeau. Continued below.

From the east or south, take US Highway 53 / State Highway 35 north from La Crosse. North of Holmen, turn left on Highway 35 where it splits from Highway 53. Take Highway 35 about 8 miles to Trempealeau.

In Trempealeau, Highway 35 becomes Main Street. Take Main Street south to First Street and turn right (west). First street becomes South Park Road in the park. Follow the signs to the park's various facilities and locations.

Bridge Closed: The Winona bridge across the Mississippi River has been closed indefinitely. The nearest bridges between Wisconsin and Minnesota are between La Crescent, Minnesota, and LaCrosse, Wisconsin, and between Wabasha, Minnesota, and Nelson, Wisconsin. State Highway 35 parallels the river on the Wisconsin side.

For more information, ask Perrot State Park, (608) 534-6409.