Wisconsinites know you don’t have to be on one of the Great Lakes to find a great public beach. With literally thousands of lakes, Wisconsin is known far and wide for having some of the most pristine and beautiful inland beaches around. These inland beaches offer clean calm water, attractive atmospheres, and are truly great places to relax on sunny summer afternoons. Here are eight awesome options to explore with family and friends.
Located on picturesque Nagawicka Lake, Naga-Waukee Park offers 130 feet of sandy beach, a beach house with restrooms, and a great concession stand. The 414 acre park also features an 18-hole golf course, 8 miles of trails, and endless opportunities for fun. All just 25 miles west of Milwaukee!
With a great sandy beach and crystal clear water, Fireman’s Beach is one of the best in the state. This fun park features a concession stand, picnic tables, grills, sand volleyball courts and shelters for rent. All for a bargain gate admission of $3 for adults and $1 for those under 12.
Located in Adams County, Friendship Lake Public Beach is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. With an average depth of just 6 feet, Friendship Lake is great for family swimming.
Who would’ve thought that there is a beautiful sandy beach just minutes from downtown Janesville? Lions Beach, located on a 5-acre spring fed pond next to the Rotary Botanical gardens, features a grassy picnic area and restrooms.
Come play at the Memorial Park Beach on the 2,600 acre Shell Lake in Washburn County. The beach is located right downtown and offers a dock, swimming rafts, and lifeguards during the summer months. If the kids want to take a break from swimming, they can play on the playground equipment right within view of the water.
Hattie Sherwood is known for its beautiful scenery, sandy swimming beaches, and great fishing. When visitors aren’t enjoying the pristine waters of Green Lake, they can be found monkey-ing around on the jungle gym and exploring the many hiking and biking trails.
With its crystal clear waters and world-class fishing, Keyes Lake Park is a true Northwoods treasure. The park itself features picnic facilities, a sandy beach, swimmers raft, and a water slide.
Known far and wide as a great swimming beach, Shawano Lake County Park is just an hour drive from Green Bay, Appleton, and Wausau. Swim in the calm refreshing water, or rent a canoe and paddle boat to explore with a little more speed.