Kickapoo Valley Reserve

A Unique Place from All Vantage Points
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve is an 8,600 acre tract of public 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.

We invite you to come 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, and native plants and animals abound in all seasons. Whether you'd like to join us for a scheduled interpretive hike, adventure into the back country on your own, or simply stop and admire the beauty, the Kickapoo Valley Reserve welcomes you!

Registration
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve offers many activities that require registration. Our registration site is currently under construction. To register for KVR hikes or workshops, please call 608/625-2960 or email kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us.

HIGHLIGHTS:

VISITOR CENTER HOURS: Open 8 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Saturday; 10 am to 4 pm Sundays and Holidays.

TRAILS: All trails are CLOSED. Hiking is allowed when trails are closed to other users. Old 131 Trail and Star Valley Trail remain OPEN to all users in wet conditions. Please report trees down or trail damage; location and type of problem is very helpful. Annual or day-use permits are required for trail use.

RIVER: Recent high water has resulted in multiple logjams - some requiring portage - in the Kickapoo River between Ontario and La Farge. Inexperienced paddlers are recommended to paddle the "passable" sections from Ontario to Landing 5 until further notice. Please check Current water levels before canoeing or kayaking. Safety first!

CAMPING: Sites on the Reserve are first come; first served = no reservations; sites are primitive = no water or toilets provided. Other options for camping in the area include: Villages of La Farge, Viola, Ontario and Wilton. Check the map on our recreation page for details.

HAVE YOU LOST SOMETHING WHILE IN THE RESERVE? Our crew members and visitors find items from time to time (keys, sunglasses. water bottles, hats etc.) Please check with the Visitor Center for your lost items.

Updated 6/28/2017 8:40am

A view overlooking the Kickapoo Valley Reserve

A hillside showing the start of changing leaves

A fall view across the prairie with hills in the background

Scene across a mowed trail through a field

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