As America celebrates its 250th birthday in 2026, we’re honoring this historic milestone with 250 incredible ways to experience Oconto County, Wisconsin.
Just as our nation’s story is woven from diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and the spirit of exploration, Oconto County offers its own tapestry of adventures—from ancient archaeological sites dating back millennia to pristine Northwoods wilderness, vibrant community celebrations, and welcoming small-town charm.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, cultural discoveries, culinary delights, or peaceful retreats, these 250 experiences showcase the very best of what makes our corner of Wisconsin worth exploring. Join us in commemorating America’s sestercentennial by discovering—or rediscovering—all that Oconto County has to offer.
EXPLORE
County-Wide | All Seasons
Start your journey with our comprehensive guide featuring maps, attractions, and insider tips for exploring every corner of Oconto County.
- Visit the Tourism Information Shack
Lakewood | All Seasons
Stop by for printed materials.
- Mountain Fire Lookout Tower
Mountain | Spring, Summer, Fall
Ascend Wisconsin’s only public fire tower for panoramic forest views stretching across the Northwoods. Read our complete guide: Ascend to Awe
- Cathedral Pines Ancient Forest
Lakewood Area | All Seasons
Walk among towering old-growth pines in this cathedral-like natural sanctuary.
- Slippery Rock Natural Waterslide
Chute Pond | Summer
Experience Wisconsin’s thrilling natural waterslide attraction carved by nature. Full details: Slide Into Summer Fun
- Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
Northern County | All Seasons
Explore over 1.5 million acres of protected wilderness with endless recreation opportunities. Complete guide: National Forest Week
- Jones Spring Natural Area
Lakewood | Spring, Summer, Fall
Discover a crystal-clear spring and unique ecosystem in this hidden gem.
- Northern Oconto County Scenic Heights Tour
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Visit the fire tower and multiple scenic overlooks on this self-guided tour. Full itinerary: Visit the Views
- Dark Sky Stargazing
Northern County | All Seasons
Experience Bortle Class 2 dark skies—some of the second-darkest on Earth—perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and astrophotography.
- Golf Courses Throughout the County
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Play scenic courses throughout the county, including championship layouts in pristine forest settings. Complete directory: Tee-rific Times & Mini-Adventures
- Boulder Lake
Northern County | All Seasons
Find solitude at this pristine wilderness lake perfect for all seasons.
- Veteran’s Memorial Parks
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Visit commemorative parks honoring service members throughout Oconto County.
- Hagar Mountain
Townsend | Spring, Summer, Fall
Hike this scenic mountain and discover waterfalls, panoramic views, and diverse wildlife.
- Jump Over Hagar Mountain Waterfall
Townsend | Summer
Take the thrilling leap over the cascading waterfall (use caution and check conditions).
- Ride Horse Trails
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Horseback riding amongst the various scenery.
- Waupee Creek Rapids
Lakewood Area | Spring, Summer, Fall
Discover these hidden rapids perfect for photography and nature observation.
- Weso Flowage
Mountain | All Seasons
Explore this peaceful flowage ideal for paddling and fishing.
- Green Lake Park
Mountain | Spring, Summer, Fall
Visit this hidden gem park featuring trails, picnic areas, and serene lake access.
- Butler Rock
Northern County | All Seasons
Hike to this geological formation offering panoramic Northwoods views.
- Quartz Hill
Townsend | All Seasons
Trek to massive white quartz outcrops with stunning northern vistas.
- The 45th Parallel Marker
Suring Area | All Seasons
Stand exactly halfway between the North Pole and the Equator.
- Copper Culture State Park
Oconto | All Seasons
Tour one of America’s oldest archaeological sites, home to a cemetery dating to 5,500 BC.
- Beyer Home Museum
Oconto | Spring, Summer, Fall
Step back in time with a Victorian-era historic home tour showcasing local heritage.
- Historic Oconto Courthouse
Oconto | All Seasons
Admire this stunning architectural landmark in downtown Oconto.
- Historic Main Street Walking Tour
Oconto | All Seasons
Stroll through the historic downtown shopping district with beautifully preserved buildings.
- Downtown Fountain
Oconto | Spring, Summer, Fall
Make a wish at the iconic fountain, a beloved community landmark.
- Antique Shop Treasure Hunting
County-Wide | All Seasons
Browse unique vintage finds and treasures in historic downtown shops.
- Local Gift Shopping
County-Wide | All Seasons
Discover unique souvenirs, local crafts, and Wisconsin-made products.
- Farnsworth Public Library
Oconto | All Seasons
Visit this historic public library and community resource center.
- Old Copper Culture Museum
Copper Culture State Park | Spring, Summer, Fall
Explore archaeological heritage at this educational museum.
- Self-Guided Architecture Tour
Oconto | All Seasons
Pick up a booklet at the Chamber and explore historic architectural gems.
- Holt & Balcom Logging Camp
Lakewood | Spring, Summer, Fall
Visit the oldest logging camp in the nation still on its original site.
- Chase Stone Barn
Chase | All Seasons
Photograph the unique fieldstone architecture of this historic barn.
- Mountain Log House
Mountain | Spring, Summer, Fall
Explore this preserved 19th-century settler cabin.
- Rural Stone Silos
Southern County | All Seasons
Spot historic stone-masonry silos dotted across the farmlands.
- Lumberjack Folklore
County-Wide | All Seasons
Learn about the Lumberjack Era legends and history.
- Museums & Historical Sites
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Learn about varying histories throughout the county.
- Gardens
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Visit numerous gardens throughout the seasons.
- Earthaven Museum
Gillett | All Seasons
Learn about rocks, minerals, elements, gemstones, fossils, meteorites & more.
Beaches & Swimming
- Beach Hopping Adventure
Multiple Communities | Summer
Explore diverse beach experiences from bay to inland lakes. Complete guide: Beach Bliss
- City Park Beach
Oconto | Summer
Swim at the sandy beach on the Bay of Green Bay with full amenities.
- Breakwater Park
Oconto | Summer
Enjoy harbor access with beautiful sunrise views.
- Nicolet Beach
Northern County | Summer
Discover forest-framed lakeside beaches throughout the Northwoods.
- Wheeler Lake Beach
Lakewood | Summer
Experience family-friendly swimming in crystal-clear waters.
- Bass Lake Beach
Townsend | Spring, Summer, Fall
One of the best beaches around, with bath house, ample parking and gorgeous sandy beach.
- Oconto Falls Beaches
Oconto Falls | Spring, Summer, Fall
East and West side beaches waiting for you to make memories.
Parks & Recreation Areas
- Oconto Marsh
Oconto | Spring, Summer, Fall
Walk boardwalks to view wildlife through pristine wetlands—the largest freshwater estuary on the Bay of Green Bay.
- Nature Trails
County-Wide | All Seasons
Discover nature trails across the county perfect for bird watching and peaceful walks.
- Rustic Road Scenic Drives
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Experience scenic byways on designated Rustic Roads 109 & 113.
- Community Parks
County-Wide | All Seasons
Enjoy multi-use parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.
- Waterfront Parks
County-Wide | All Seasons
Relax at harbor and lakeside parks throughout the county.
- Sporting Complexes
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Visit recreation destinations with baseball diamonds, soccer fields, pickleball courts, ice skating rinks and more.
- Playground Adventures
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Let kids explore creative play areas at parks throughout the county.
- Mini Golf Fun
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Enjoy family-friendly themed mini golf courses and 9 or 18 hole golf courses. Course details: Tee-rific Times & Mini-Adventures
Attractions
- Berry Farm Visits
County-Wide | Fall
Pick pumpkins and enjoy autumn activities at local farms.
- Local Florists & Greenhouses
County-Wide | Spring, Summer
Find garden inspiration and locally grown plants. Complete directory: From Bouquets to Backyards
- Haunted Attractions
County-Wide | Fall
Experience zombie paintball and seasonal adventure activities.
- Bigfoot Hunting
Northern County | All Seasons
Search for evidence of local legends in the deep woods.
- Fall Color Tour
County-Wide | Fall
Follow scenic routes to capture spectacular autumn foliage. Complete guide: Visit the Season
- Fall Bucket List Activities
County-Wide | Fall
Complete must-do autumn experiences throughout the county. Full checklist: Fall into Adventure
- Winter Landscape Views
County-Wide | Winter
Photograph snow-covered landscapes and frozen waterfalls.
- Bald Eagle Watching
County-Wide | Winter, Spring
Observe majestic eagles along the Oconto River and Bay of Green Bay.
- Rock Hunting at Beaches
County-Wide | All Seasons
Search for unique geological specimens along the shoreline (check local guidelines).
- Historical Churches
County-Wide | All Seasons
Tour architectural landmark churches throughout the county.
- Historic Landmarks
County-Wide | All Seasons
Discover self-guided tours of significant historical sites.
- Archaeological Education
Copper Culture State Park | All Seasons
Learn about ancient peoples who lived here 7,500 years ago.
- Library Retreats
County-Wide | All Seasons
Relax with a good book at local libraries.
- Harbor Boat Watching
Oconto | Spring, Summer, Fall
Observe maritime activity from the harbor.
- Bird City Wisconsin
Oconto | All Seasons
Explore Oconto’s designation as a Bird City, promoting bird-friendly habitats and conservation.
- Hagar Mountain Turkey Vulture Watching
Mountain | Spring, Summer, Fall
Visit one of the northernmost and largest turkey vulture roosting sites in Wisconsin.
EVENTS
Annual Celebrations
- Independence Day Fireworks
County-Wide | July 4th
Watch spectacular fireworks all over the county as America turns 250!
- Bed Races
Townsend | Winter
Cheer on high-speed ice racing bed teams in this quirky spectacle.
- Cardboard Boat Races
Lakewood | Winter
Witness creative competition and hilarious races.
- Copperfest Heritage Celebration
Oconto | June (2nd Weekend)
Join the annual celebration with copper medallion hunt, parade, and activities.
- Wienerfest North
Lakewood | Summer
Attend this unique culinary celebration featuring local favorites.
- Dirt City Races
Lena | Spring, Summer
Experience heart-pounding racing action.
- Testicle Festival
Breed | Summer
Come for the intrigue, stay for the fun.
- Suring Car Show
Suring | Fall
Admire classic cars and hot rods at this annual gathering.
- National Night Out
County-Wide | August
Join community safety celebrations throughout the county.
- Harvestfest
Oconto | September
Celebrate autumn with this community festival featuring local vendors and entertainment.
- Santa Visits
County-Wide | December
Bring the kids to meet Santa and share wish lists.
- Local Fly-In
Oconto Airport | September
Gather with aviation enthusiasts for aircraft displays.
- Historic Main Street Parades
County-Wide | Various Seasons
Enjoy community processions celebrating holidays and local heritage.
- Movie in the Park
County-Wide | Summer
Watch outdoor film screenings under the stars.
- Community Theater Productions
County-Wide | Various Seasons
See local talent perform on stage throughout the year.
- Lakewood Arts & Craft Show
Lakewood | Summer
An annual event with numerous vendors.
- Summer Baseball Games
County-Wide | Summer
Watch local leagues and tournaments at community diamonds.
- Live Music at Taverns
County-Wide | All Seasons
Experience the local music scene at venues throughout the county.
- Chamber of Commerce Events
County-Wide | All Seasons
Attend business community gatherings and networking events.
- Copper Culture Candlelight Hike
Copper Culture State Park | January
Join a magical winter evening guided tour by candlelight.
- Historical Walking Tours
Oconto | Spring, Summer, Fall
Take self-guided downtown heritage tours with informational booklets.
- Lakewood Automobile Tour
Lakewood | All Seasons
Follow this scenic driving tour highlighting historic sites and natural beauty.
- Park & Recreation Programs
County-Wide | All Seasons
Participate in seasonal activity offerings for all ages.
EAT & DRINK
Breakfast & Brunch
- Award-Winning Pie for Breakfast
County-Wide | All Seasons
Start your day with locally famous bakery specialties.
- Weekend Brunch
Multiple Communities | All Seasons
Enjoy leisurely brunch at local restaurants.
- Coffee Shop Culture
County-Wide | All Seasons
Begin mornings at local cafes with artisan coffee.
Lunch & Casual Dining
- Main Street Lunch
County-Wide | All Seasons
Try downtown dining options with diverse menus.
- Waterfront Lunch
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Dine with bay and lake views at restaurants throughout the county.
- Classic Diner Experience
County-Wide | All Seasons
Enjoy classic Wisconsin fare at local diners.
Dinner & Supper Clubs
- Friday Night Fish Fry Tour
County-Wide | All Seasons
Experience the Wisconsin tradition at favorites throughout the county. Complete guide: The Fry is Right
- Supper Club Tradition
County-Wide | All Seasons
Enjoy classic Wisconsin dining with relish trays and prime rib.
- Downtown Evening Dining
County-Wide | All Seasons
Explore restaurant scenes in historic downtowns.
- Waterfront Dinner
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
End your day with dinner overlooking the water.
Beverages & Specialty Drinks
- Bloody Mary Trail
County-Wide | All Seasons
Sample creative house-made mixes at establishments throughout the county. Complete trail: Raise the Bar
- Old Fashioned Cocktail Tour
County-Wide | All Seasons
Try Wisconsin’s signature cocktail at bars throughout the county. Full tour: Spirit of the Northwoods
- Local Winery Visits
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Enjoy wine tasting experiences at area wineries.
- Happy Hour Specials
County-Wide | All Seasons
Catch afternoon refreshment deals at local taverns.
Sweet Treats
- Bakeries
County-Wide | All Seasons
Don’t miss local bakery desserts and award-winning pies.
- Ice Cream Trail
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Visit dairy barns and ice cream stands for seasonal flavors. Complete trail: Get the Inside Scoop
- Sweet Treats with Activities
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Combine dessert with mini golf and family fun.
- Pets Like Treats too
County-Wide | All Seasons
Visit local pet shops to grab a dessert for fido.
- Local Candy Stores
County-Wide | All Seasons
Satisfy your sweet tooth at candy shops throughout the county.
STAY
Hotels, Resorts & Vacation Rentals
- Hotels
County-Wide | All Seasons
Stay in convenient city lodging near attractions.
- Northern County Weekend Escape
Northern County | All Seasons
Plan the ultimate getaway with trails, tales, and outdoor adventures. Complete itinerary: Trails, Tails, & Tales
- Northern County Cabins
Northern County | All Seasons
Rent secluded forest retreats for peaceful getaways.
- Lakeside Resorts
Northern County | All Seasons
Stay at full-service lake resorts with recreation amenities.
- Waterfront Cabins
County-Wide | All Seasons
Book private cabins with water access.
- Resort Amenities
Northern County | All Seasons
Experience recreation-focused lodging with activities.
- Vacation Rental Homes
County-Wide | All Seasons
Enjoy private home experiences throughout the county.
- Lakehouse Rentals
County-Wide | All Seasons
Book full lake access properties for your group.
- Historic Home Stays
County-Wide | All Seasons
Experience character lodging in restored historic buildings.
Campgrounds
- Municipal Campgrounds
Multiple Communities | Spring, Summer, Fall
Camp at full-service facilities with modern amenities.
- Waterfront Campgrounds
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Wake up to beach and harbor views at lakeside sites.
- National Forest Camping
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Experience primitive wilderness camping in the Chequamegon-Nicolet.
- RV Camping
Multiple Communities | Spring, Summer, Fall
Find full hook-up sites throughout the county.
- Lakeside Camping
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Camp steps from the water at pristine lakes.
TRAILS
- Copper Culture State Park Trails
Oconto | Spring, Summer, Fall
Hike easy trails through the archaeological site.
- Mountain Fire Lookout Trail
Mountain | Spring, Summer, Fall
Trek a moderate climb to the tower with rewarding views.
- Oconto River State Trail
Multiple Communities | Spring, Summer, Fall
Explore the multi-use rail trail through diverse landscapes.
- Cathedral Pines Trail
Lakewood | Spring, Summer, Fall
Walk beneath the canopy of old-growth forest.
- Oconto Marsh Boardwalk
Oconto | Spring, Summer, Fall
Enjoy accessible wetland trails with wildlife viewing.
- National Forest Hiking
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Trek extensive trail systems throughout the Chequamegon-Nicolet.
- Urban Nature Walks
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Discover nature trails within community limits.
- Off the Beaten Path
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Many county and national forest lands allow for wandering—check regulations before you go.
- Scenic Overlook Hikes
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Climb to panoramic vista points throughout the Northwoods.
- Waterfall Treks
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Discover hidden waterfalls on forest trails.
- Copper Culture State Trail Biking
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Ride the paved rail trail connecting communities.
- Machickanee Forest
Abrams | All Seasons
A cross country ski trail network, with off season hiking options.
- Oconto River Trail Biking
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Cycle the scenic river corridor trail.
- Rustic Road Cycling
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Enjoy road biking on designated scenic byways.
- Historic Downtown Rides
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Cruise through charming Main Streets on two wheels.
ATV/UTV Trails
- Nicolet State Trail
County-Wide | All Seasons
Running from Gillett through numerous communities, ride by ATV or snowmobile depending on the season.
- Forest ATV Adventures
Chequamegon-Nicolet | Spring, Summer, Fall
Explore backcountry riding through wilderness areas.
- County-Wide ATV Routes
Multiple Communities | Spring, Summer, Fall
Connect trail systems across communities.
Snowmobile Trails
- Snowmobile Trail Network
County-Wide | Winter
Ride 480+ miles of groomed trails connecting communities. Complete guide: Snowmobiling in Oconto County
Water Trails
- Kayak & Canoe Launch Tour
Multiple Communities | Spring, Summer, Fall
Explore diverse waterways from various access points. Complete guide: Paddle Paradise
- Oconto River Paddling
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Kayak or canoe the scenic river from north to south.
- Wilderness Canoeing
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Paddle peaceful flowages and remote lakes.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding
County-Wide | Summer
Try SUP on calm lakes throughout the area.
- River Tubing
County-Wide | Summer
Float lazily down the Oconto River with rental tubes available.
Cross-Country Ski & Snowshoe
- Cross-Country Skiing
Lakewood, Abrams | Winter
Lakewood & Machickanee Forest trails, maintained by volunteers, are incredible trail networks to explore.
- Snowshoeing in the Forest
Northern County | Winter
Trek into winter wilderness on snowshoes.
- Winter Hiking
County-Wide | Winter
Explore the benefits of winter hiking throughout Oconto County.
Motorcycle Routes
- Rustic Road Motorcycle Rides
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Enjoy scenic motorcycle routes on winding country roads.
- Northern Forest Highway Riding
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Tour forest highways with stunning Northwoods views.
- Coastal Motorcycle Route
Bay of Green Bay | Spring, Summer, Fall
Cruise the waterfront scenic ride along the bay.
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES
Water Activities
- Boating on the Bay
Oconto | Spring, Summer, Fall
Launch your boat on the expansive Bay of Green Bay.
- Shore Fishing
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Cast a line from waterfront parks and access points.
- Bay Ice Fishing
Oconto | Winter
Try hard water fishing on the frozen bay.
- River and Lake Ice Fishing
County-Wide | Winter
Drill holes and drop lines on frozen waters throughout the county.
- Fly Fishing
Oconto River | Spring, Summer, Fall
Cast flies in productive trout stream sections.
- Northern Lakes Fishing
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Target multiple species including walleye, bass, and musky.
- River Boating
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Navigate the Oconto River by boat from north to south.
- Water Skiing
County-Wide | Summer
Enjoy towed water sports on area lakes. (Check lake regulations).
- Pontoon Boat Rentals
Northern County | Summer
Rent a pontoon for leisurely lake cruising and swimming with family.
- Lake Kayaking
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Explore pristine northern lakes by kayak.
- Geocaching Adventures
Multiple Communities | All Seasons
Hunt for GPS treasure caches throughout the county.
Family Activities
- Rainy Day Activities
County-Wide | All Seasons
Discover indoor fun for the whole family when weather doesn’t cooperate. Complete guide: Making Memories Indoors
- Ice Fishing Tournaments
County-Wide | Winter
Compete or spectate at organized ice fishing derbies on the bay and inland lakes.
- Sand Castle Building
County-Wide Beaches | Summer
Get creative at beaches along the bay and inland lakes.
- Kayak Fishing
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Combine paddling and angling for a peaceful fishing experience.
- Bowling
County-Wide | All Seasons
Enjoy classic family fun at local bowling alleys.
- Mini Road Trips
County-Wide | All Seasons
Create half-day loops connecting towns, trails, restaurants, and scenic stops. - Horseshoes
County Parks | Spring, Summer, Fall
Toss shoes at park horseshoe pits.
- Sand Volleyball
County Parks | Summer
Play beach volleyball at park courts.
- Basketball
County Parks | Spring, Summer, Fall
Shoot hoops at outdoor courts.
- Kite Flying
County-Wide Beaches | Spring, Summer
Fly kites on windy days at the beach.
- Ice Skating
County-Wide | Winter
Glide on outdoor rinks and frozen ponds throughout the county.
- Downhill Skiing at Paul Bunyan Ski Hill
Lakewood | Winter
Experience downhill skiing and snowboarding at this family-friendly ski area.
- Winter Tubing
County-Wide | Winter
Speed down snow-covered hills at tubing parks throughout the county.
- Axe Throwing
Lena | All Seasons
Test your lumberjack skills at a local recreation venue.
- Skateboarding
Southern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Visit community skate parks for tricks and fun.
Seasonal Activities
- Bay Sunrise Watching
Oconto | All Seasons
Witness early morning beauty over the Bay of Green Bay.
- Rock Skipping
Oconto | Spring, Summer, Fall
Skip stones across the bay waters.
- Fall Leaf Collecting
County-Wide | Fall
Gather colorful autumn leaves for crafts.
- Christmas Tree Farms
County-Wide | Winter
Cut your own tree around the holidays.
- Campfire S’mores
Campgrounds | Spring, Summer, Fall
Enjoy the classic camping treat around the fire.
- Mushroom Foraging
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Search for morels, puffballs, and other edible mushrooms with proper identification guides.
- Wild Berry Picking
County-Wide | Summer, Fall
Find wild raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries along trail edges.
- Foraging in County Forest Land
Breed | All Seasons
Explore sustainable foraging opportunities on public forest land (check regulations).
Arts & Culture
- Local Art Galleries
County-Wide | All Seasons
Browse works by regional artists.
- Summer Concert Events
County-Wide | Summer
Attend live music performances at outdoor venues.
- Craft Fairs and Artisan Markets
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Shop handmade goods from local craftspeople at seasonal markets.
Relaxation & Wellness
- Park Picnics
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Enjoy outdoor dining at scenic parks.
- Pavilion Grilling
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Cook out at park pavilions with grills.
- Sundial Time Telling
Oconto Harbor | Spring, Summer, Fall
Learn to tell time on the historic harbor sundial.
- Fire Pit Relaxation
Campgrounds | All Seasons
Unwind by cozy campfire at your campsite.
- Fresh Northwoods Air
County-Wide | All Seasons
Breathe deeply and enjoy natural aromatherapy.
Historical Experiences
- Native History Discovery
Copper Culture | All Seasons
Learn about indigenous heritage dating back millennia.
- Ecology Studies
Marsh Trail | Spring, Summer, Fall
Discover environmental learning opportunities.
- Forest Conservation Education
Chequamegon-Nicolet | All Seasons
Gain conservation knowledge at the national forest ranger station.
Volunteer & Community
- Volunteer Service
County-Wide | All Seasons
Give back by volunteering at trails, food pantries, and community events.
- Church Services
County-Wide | All Seasons
Join spiritual communities at local churches.
- Shop Local
County-Wide | All Seasons
Support small businesses throughout the county.
Shopping Experiences
- Farmers Markets
County-Wide | Summer, Fall
Buy local produce and crafts at community markets.
- Postcard Sending
County-Wide | All Seasons
Mail memories home on vintage-style postcards.
Photography Opportunities
- Historic Courthouse Photography
Oconto | All Seasons
Capture the architectural beauty of this landmark.
- Harbor Photography
Oconto | All Seasons
Photograph maritime scenes at the working harbor.
- Wildlife Photography
County-Wide | All Seasons
Capture nature and wildlife throughout the region.
- Forest Photography
Northern County | All Seasons
Shoot woodland scenes in every season.
Educational Experiences
- Museum Learning
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Explore local history at museums.
- Birdwatching
Multiple Communities | Spring, Summer, Fall
Spot diverse bird species throughout the county.
- Butterfly Watching
County-Wide | Summer
Visit milkweed patches in the marsh for Monarchs and other species.
- Fossil Hunting
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Search for ancient marine fossils in limestone outcrops.
Romantic Experiences
- Romantic Walks
County-Wide | All Seasons
Stroll with someone special through scenic areas.
- Sunset Dinners
Waterfront Restaurants | Spring, Summer, Fall
Enjoy romantic dining with water views.
- Couples Stargazing
Northern County | All Seasons
Share celestial romance under the stars.
- Wine Tasting
County Wineries | Spring, Summer, Fall
Spend an afternoon sampling local wines.
Pet-Friendly Activities
- Dog Walking
Oconto | All Seasons
Exercise your pet through town and parks.
- Dog-Friendly Parks
County-Wide | All Seasons
Visit pet recreation areas throughout the county.
- Pet-Friendly Trails
Various Locations | All Seasons
Hike with your four-legged friends.
- Dog Beach Days
Select Beaches | Summer
Let your canine swim at designated areas.
Equipment Rentals & Guided Tours
- Paddlesport Rentals
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Rent kayaks and canoes for water adventures.
- Equipment Rentals
County-Wide | All Seasons
Access gear for various activities without ownership.
- Guided Fishing Charters
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Learn from expert-led angling excursions on the bay and inland lakes.
- Nature Tours
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Join educational hikes led by naturalists.
Unique Challenges & Adventures
- Northern Lights Viewing
County-Wide | All Seasons
Watch for Aurora Borealis displays on clear nights with solar activity.
- Explore the National Forest Ranger Station
Lakewood | All Seasons
Stop in to learn about the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.
- Rock Features
Northern County | Spring, Summer, Fall
Challenge yourself on natural rock formations.
Wildlife Watching
- Sandhill Crane Watching
County-Wide | Spring, Fall
Listen for their prehistoric calls in the fields and wetlands.
- Wild Turkey Sightings
County-Wide | All Seasons
Spot these large birds in farmlands and forest edges.
- Beaver Dam Scouting
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Find the engineering marvels on smaller creeks.
- River Otter Spotting
Oconto River | All Seasons
If you’re lucky, spot them playing in the water.
Day Trip Ideas
- Northern County Loop Drive
Northern County | All Seasons
Complete a full-day scenic adventure loop.
- Historic Oconto Day
Oconto | All Seasons
Immerse yourself in heritage for an entire day.
- Multi-Trail Adventures
County-Wide | Spring, Summer, Fall
Experience different trail types in one day.
- Culinary Tour
County-Wide | All Seasons
Restaurant hop throughout the county exploring local flavors.
Extended Stay Experiences
- Weekend Camping Retreat
Various Campgrounds | Spring, Summer, Fall
Enjoy multi-day outdoor experiences.
- Week-Long Cabin Stay
County-Wide | All Seasons
For more flexibility and less crowds visit during the week.
- Seasonal Getaway
County-Wide | Various Seasons
Plan themed vacations around seasons.
- Festival Weekends
County-Wide | Various Seasons
Time your visit around major events.
- Winter Sports Week
Northern County | Winter
Dedicate a week to snow activities.
Community Connections
- Join an ATV or Snowmobile Club
County-Wide | All Seasons
Join a network of enthusiasts who help maintain our trails.
- Join Recreation Programs
County-Wide | All Seasons
Participate in local activities, clubs and classes.
- Attend Town Events
Multiple Communities | All Seasons
Experience authentic small-town celebrations. LINK
Final Destination Highlights
- Catch a Walleye
Bay of Green Bay | Spring, Summer, Fall
Fish for trophy walleye in the bay’s productive waters.
- Experience All Four Seasons
County-Wide | All Seasons
Return throughout the year to see how Oconto County transforms.
- Celebrate America 250
County-Wide | All Seasons
Discover Oconto County and bring friends and family back to explore.
Originally posted on 1/1/26. Please email info@tedcor.org for any edits.