Rock Creek Rock Field is one of only three known rock fields in Wisconsin. The quartzite talus slope has been shaped by glacial transport and frost shattering. A cool-air drainage microclimate around the rock field supports mosses, lichens, liverworts, and two rare plants. Access to the natural area is via the Rock Field Trail Loop; site conditions can affect access.

Bogs and Forests in Their Own Right

Wetlands, too, reveal different aspects of the landscape. Bear Lake Sedge Meadow covers 167 acres in Barron County. This bog-like area, with sphagnum moss, pitcher plants, tamaracks, and black spruce, is also a habitat for rare birds. It was designated a State Natural Area in 1997.

New Auburn Sedge Meadow covers 325 acres within the New Auburn Wildlife Area in Barron County, making it nearly twice the size of Bear Lake Sedge Meadow. The sedge meadow lies in the upper reaches of Beaver Creek; its habitat includes shallow marshes and alder thickets. Loon Lake Woods, meanwhile, covers 59 acres within the Loon Lake Wildlife Area in Barron County and was designated a State Natural Area in 2003. The size and habitats give each of the three natural areas its own character, from bog-like wetlands to sedge meadow and forest.

Trails, Ski Trails, and Seasonal Conditions

The Cattail Trail and Wild Rivers Trail differ in both length and starting point. The Cattail Trail runs 8.0 miles from Almena toward Polk County. The Wild Rivers Trail runs 9.1 miles north from Rice Lake. Both trails are open to ATVs year-round; seasonal trail conditions can change.

Snowmobiles are subject to a different condition on the Wild Rivers Trail: use is possible once the trail is snow-covered and official trail conditions allow it to open. The Cumberland Area Ski Trail Association’s trails cover 25 km and are located nine miles north of Cumberland on County Highway H. The Association maintains them; maintenance and conditions can vary. The Barron Area Nordic Trail Association’s trails run through an oak-maple forest locally known as Rockman's Woods.

The Tuscobia State Trail offers another connection for active exploration. It begins north of Rice Lake at its junction with the Wild Rivers State Trail and offers opportunities for mountain biking and hiking. The section of the Tuscobia State Trail in Barron County is certified as part of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. At the Tuscobia/Wild Rivers Trail Junction on Highway SS north of Rice Lake, Barron County provides parking and pit toilets. For planning purposes, the named trail connection, the activities offered, and the facilities at the junction can be considered separately.

Experience Forest and Water

The Barron County Forest covers more than 16,000 acres across 14 management areas. The accessible Turtle Creek Fishing Piers offer a specific way to enjoy fishing: they provide anglers of every age and ability with access to a trout stream. At Red Barn Landing, Barron County maintains a kayak launch at Highway 48 and CTH M.

Those wishing to reserve campsites or shelters can do so through the Barron County Parks reservation page, where permits can also be purchased. Check the reservation process before booking.

History and Events

At the Pioneer Village Museum in Cameron, a historic village provides the setting for exploring the history of Barron County. It includes a church, school, jail, blacksmith shop, general store, train station, caboose, historic log cabins, and a farmhouse. The ten exhibit buildings contain farm equipment, toys, outboard motors, and other historic memorabilia. They also present the original county seat and the history of the county.

The Chetek Area Museum collects, preserves, and shares Chetek’s local cultural heritage in northern Wisconsin. The annual Cameron Bluegrass Festival at the Pioneer Village Museum offers another way to experience music and community activities. The three-day program includes music, bluegrass jam sessions, workshops, and vendor booths. Check event dates and program details before traveling, as they may change.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Rice Lake, Chetek, Turtle Lake, Oconto County, Oneida County, Juneau County, Columbia, Sheboygan County.

For the main travel overview: Wisconsin.