Governor Thompson State Park

Introduction of Governor Thompson State Park

The 2,800-acre Governor Thompson State Park in Marinette County is located 15 miles to the northwest of Crivitz. The area safeguards Handsaw Creek, Woods Lake Outlet, and 5,300 feet of beachfront on Wood and Huber Lakes. The old 1,987-acre Paust Woods Lake Resort and around 200 acres of wild-appearing lakeshore acquired from Wisconsin Public Service Corporation on Caldron Falls Reservoir make up the park’s core tract.

Governor Thompson State Park Activities

Boating

Boat Landing #13 is a boat launch on the Caldron Falls Reservoir. Additionally, there are now bathrooms on site.

Fishing

Those who like a tranquil experience can go fishing. On Woods Lake, only non-motorized boats are permitted. Blue gills, crappies, northerns, and even some bass appear to be the most sought-after species of fish.

Hiking

There are several hiking routes that lead to amazing rock formations that you may explore and appreciate.

Camping & Picnicking

Take use of the contemporary 100-site family campsite if you want to stay a few days at this park (which you should if you want to take advantage of everything it has to offer) (divided into two loops). The campgrounds are well-kept and include entirely forested areas as well as more open areas. There are plenty that are spacious enough to fit campers or RVs, and some even have a pull-through driveway.

The campsite has drinking fountains and vault toilets scattered around, but our favourite part is the centrally placed shower house. Each room in the shower facility contains a flush toilet, a basin, and a shower in addition to the standard public restrooms with flush toilets. Who doesn’t like the comfort of their own shower and bathroom while camping? Check out the picnic spot beside Woods Lake if you’re planning a picnic but aren’t interested in camping. Here, you’ll discover a large, grassy picnic area along with a swimming area and beach with 150 feet of sand. There are picnic tables, a charcoal barbecue, and a covered park shelter that may be reserved.

Hunting

The regular nine-day gun season is the only time the park is open for deer shooting; alternative deer seasons and seasons for other kinds of game are not permitted.

Wildlife

This very wooded area is teeming with wildlife. Even within the campsite loops, deer are frequently seen. Along with these animals, you could see sandhill cranes, turkeys, grouse, bald eagles, many songbirds, frogs, turtles, chipmunks, raccoons, and occasionally even black bears! (If you’re camping, you might want to leave your food in the car overnight to prevent bears and raccoons from stealing it.) Fear not; black bears often prefer to stay away from people and are unlikely to appear in the campground.

Water Sports

Boating and swimming.

Governor Thompson State Park History

One of the most recent parks in the Wisconsin State Park network is Governor Thompson State Park. The park, which bears the name of the state’s previous governor, was created in 2000. In 2005, the park converted to a day-use park. New elements have been added throughout time, including as hiking paths and boat landings.

Seasonality/Weather

Transportation

Driving

From Crivitz, take County Highway A northwest to County Highway X. (four-way stop). On County Highway X, make a left. After passing the High Falls Reservoir bridge on Highway X, turn right onto Parkway Road. After travelling about.5 miles north on Parkway Road, turn left onto Ranch Road. Travel 1 mile west on Ranch Road to Paust Lane. To enter the park, use Paust Lane and turn right (north).

Parking

Parking is available.

Public Transport

Public Transport is available.