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A Unique Place from All Vantage Points
 
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve is an 8,569-acre tract of land located between the villages of La Farge and Ontario in southwestern Wisconsin. Its history, resources, administration, and recreational diversity make it unique - a place like no other. The state-sanctioned Kickapoo Reserve Management Board is responsible for managing the property on behalf of the State of Wisconsin and Ho-Chunk Nation. As a publicly protected property - subject to state, tribal, and federal laws - visitors are asked to be aware of the rule and permit requirements. 

We invite you to come and see for yourself the many wonders of the Kickapoo Valley Reserve.  Here, sandstone outcroppings tower over the Kickapoo River as you paddle its quiet waters while native plants and animals abound in all seasons.  Whether you'd like to join us for a scheduled interpretive hike, adventure into the backcountry on your own, or simply stop and admire the beauty, the Kickapoo Valley Reserve welcomes you!

Book a Campsite


 

INFORMATION AT A GLANCE

VISITOR CENTER HOURS: 
Monday thru Saturday 8am-4:30pm
Sundays & Holidays 10am-4pm

KRMB Meeting September 21, 2023 -- agenda

 NOTICE: ALL PERMITS (INCLUDING CAMPING) ARE ONLINE ONLY OR AT THE VISITOR CENTER DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS. THE SELF-PAY STATIONS (PAPER PERMIT FORMS) ON THE PROPERTY ARE NO LONGER AN OPTION FOR PAYMENT.

  • EQUESTRIAN & BIKE TRAILS:  CLOSED - Users are encouraged to wear bright colors during hunting seasons.
  • OLD HIGHWAY 131 TRAIL:  OPEN to equestrian, bike, hike.  No motorized vehicles allowed, including *E-bikes.
  • HIKING: OPEN.  Users are encouraged to wear bright colors during hunting seasons.

  • CAMPING:  There is limited camping availability for the weekend of 9/23-9/24.  Please call the Visitor Center for information. Campers must book/register online prior to setting up. NO tents are allowed in D1, D2, D3, D4.  Click Camping button on the left side of this page. 

  • PARKING: Day or annual permit required. See our map for day parking locations.  Keep vehicles on solid surfaces.

  • KICKAPOO RIVER:  Nearly 3 inches of rain has fallen on the KVR.  Check river levels prior to paddling.  Total blockage between Bridge 16 and Bridge 18.  Blockage required portage.   Check current river levels- Ontario & La Farge gauging station.

  •  HUNTING & FISHING: The KVR property is OPEN for public hunting & fishing in accordance with WI DNR seasons & licensing requirements. View School Zone boundary - Click here.  Leave no trace - including spent shell casings.  There is a WI-DNR CWD collection kiosk located on Hysel Road east of the Rockton Bridge.  

  • *E-BIKES: Learn more about E-bikes and the KVR 

*Please subscribe to NIXLE notification system for local weather warnings and other emergency alerts. Free to subscribe, opt out at any time. 

 Pack out ALL Trash!

 Updated 9/23/23 6am


Rock Outcrop along Kickapoo River
KVR Visitor Center with a trillium
A Sandhill Crane in a field
A view overlooking the Kickapoo Valley Reserve
A does deer standing in a field
A hillside showing the start of changing leaves
A fall view across the prairie with hills in the background
Berries on False Solomon Seal
One of the several ice caves
TEST

Scene across a mowed trail through a field
Cartoon of an compass
Link to Dam Challenge Event Magnolia Warbler  Lichens of the KVR

The Kickapoo Reserve Management Board acknowledges that the state and federal lands that comprise the Reserve fall within the ancestral homelands of First Nations people including the Hooçak Nation. We recognize the sovereignty of the Hooçak and other First Nations and will work towards a shared future by continuing to create collaborative opportunities to protect and preserve these lands.

Kickapoo Valley Reserve | S3661 State Highway 131 | La Farge, Wisconsin 54639 
Phone: 608-625-2960 | FAX: 608-625-2962
kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us

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