Exploring the Beautiful Bluffs of Nelson Dewey State Park in Cassville

My wife and I recently set out on another adventure in the Tri-State area, this time to Nelson Dewey State Park in the village of Cassville. The park was still closed for the season, but that didn’t stop us from exploring. We scrambled up the entry road to reach the main trail, eager to explore the many blufftop views.

The hike started crisp and cool, with the forest floor covered in slippery leaves. I always think hiking is easier when it's cool out. The Cedar Point Trail makes a very quick and easy loop. It's a great place to start and offers an incredible view of the park and the Mississippi River valley. From over 500 feet above the river, the backwaters and winding channels always look magical.

Get our free mobile app

Across the river, the Stonefield Historic Site feels like stepping back in time. Its restored village of 30 buildings includes a saloon, bank, cheese factory, and newspaper office. It's open in the summer for tourists to visit and explore the old Wisconsin pioneer ways of life.

As we entered the campground, we noticed ancient burial mounds from Wisconsin’s indigenous peoples. Walking past them reminded me that this land has been a home for thousands of years. The campground itself is fantastic. There are modern amenities like showers and restrooms, and four “walk-in” sites that sit right on the bluff face. My wife and I took in the view from a picnic table at walk-in site D. Better yet, from site A you can easily spot a bald eagle’s nest.

The trails are easy to follow, even with a little mud from the thawing temperatures. After covering about four miles, we wrapped up the day at Whispering Bluffs Winery, savoring local wines and reflecting on our hike in, not to far away, Potosi. Overall, Nelson Dewey State Park delivers stunning views, fun trails, and a mix of history and nature that’s hard to beat. Scroll through the gallery below to see all of the beauty I found.