Portage County

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Portage County Attractions

Known as the "Heart of Wisconsin", Portage County has many hidden charms. From the beautiful pine trees that align the major highways to the numerous marshes, rivers and rocks, Portage County offers many breathtaking landscapes.

In the 1830's, John B. DuBay established a trading post north of what is now Stevens Point along the Wisconsin River. However, it was not until 1836, when a treaty was signed between the United States and the Native Americans, that permanent settlement in Portage County began.

Portage County also boasts some of the richest farmland in the state. The Village of Plover has become one of the nation's most important agricultural suppliers of potatoes and other vegetables. The biggest city in Portage County is Stevens Point. Conveniently located in the center of the state, the Stevens Point area has something for everyone! Nestled among an abundance of green space and waterways, there are plenty of cross country ski trails, numerous hiking and biking trails or golf courses for everyone to enjoy in Portage County!

Visit quaint shops in the downtown historic district, explore museums and art galleries and take in a special event and tour. The downtown district has maintained much of its charm with interesting brickwork on the old buildings. Gift shops dot the area. The Stevens Point area owes more of its early development to the Old Wisconsin Central Railroad (Soo Line) than to any other single factor. The building of this line of transportation for cargo and passenger alike through the wilds of Northern Wisconsin is a railroad romance story rivaling the historic building of the Union Pacific across the West. The railroad, by making Stevens Point a scheduled stop, linked the area to the rest of the country. Back to top

Museums and Historical Sites

Heritage Park
Plover, WI
(715) 344-4423
Heritage Park, Madison Ave. and Willow Dr, is a village of actual buildings from the early days of Portage County, owned and operated by the Portage County Historical Society, as a source of education about the area.

Locomotive No. 2713
Southside Memorial Park - Bus. 51
(715) 344-2556
To commemorate the role of the Steam Engine in the development of the community, Southside Memorial Park proudly displays the restored Steam Locomotive No. 2713.

Parks and Nature Centers
Hartman Creek State Park
Plover, WI
(715) 258-2372
Located 20 miles east on Hwy 54., Hartman Creek State Park features 100 sites, showers, flush toilets, swimming, winter camping, hiking trails, crossing-country skiing, bike trails, snowmobile trails and summer interpretation.

Boat and Canoeing
(715) 344-2556
The Wisconsin, Tomorrow, Plover and Little Eau Pleine Rivers all flow through the area, providing a serious day of boating or just a short jaunt on the river. Back to top

Points of Interest

Schmeeckle Reserve
North Point Dr.
Stevens Point, WI
(715) 346-4992
Supported by UW- Stevens Point as a research and teaching resource, this 220 acre reserve is open to the public. Visitors can view wildlife, walk or jog the 5 miles of trails.

Stevens Point Brewery
2617 Water St.
Stevens Point, WI
1-800-369-4911
Tour one of the smaller and oldest breweries in the state of Wisconsin. Tours are given Monday - Saturday, 11 am - 2 pm hourly and Sunday 12 pm - 2 pm hourly. Visit the unique gift shop as well.

University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point
2100 Main St.
Stevens Point, WI
(715) 346-4242
UWSP offers a diverse selection of programs and activities to visitors. Plays, concerts, athletic events, films, special speakers, displays and exhibits are scheduled throughout the year and many are open to the public without charge. Back to top

Special Things To Do

Wild Wild West Kampground & Korral
9496 Hwy. 54 East
(715) 824-5112
The Wild Wild West Kampground & Korral features fun for the whole family. There are 60 camp sites with electricity and water and also some rustic tent sites. Activities include horseback riding, one hour horse trail rides, pony rides, Suzuki nature trail ride, paddle boats, canoes, volleyball and basketball, badminton courts, and gameroom. Also available is a playground, showers, Laundromat, mini-store, wood, hiking, tennis, love boat rentals, private horse riding lessons, Western Steak Restaurant, cabins for rent, dude ranch packages.

Planetarium Sunday Programs
UWSP Science Building
Stevens Point
(715) 346-2208
These programs, designed to appeal to all age groups, are changed monthly. Doors open half an hour before each performance, which lasts approximately one hour. There is no charge; however, seating is on a first come, first serve basis. Programs are held each Sunday at 2 pm. Back to top