Marquette County Historical Society
A turn of the century gem, the Cochrane Nelson house, built in 1903 by one of the first settlers to the new state of Wisconsin, sits on the mill pond in Westfield and home to the Marquette County Historical Society. A large collection of photos and artifacts tell the story of early Marquette County. The Riverside School from the district formed in 1853 also sits on the museum grounds. Regular hours are Wednesday 1 to 4 and by appointment and during special events.
Montello Historic Preservation Society
In 1912, J.P. Vaughn built the 2-story cement block building that would become his blacksmith shop on the first floor and hold community events on the upper level. Today it is the home of the Montello Museum and continues to host special events.
Barn Quilts and History Murals
Over 65 barn quilts and murals can be viewed from quaint village streets and lovely country back roads. Pick up a colorful trail map at any of six county libraries in Endeavor, Montello, Neshkoro, Oxford, Packwaukee or Westfield.
Click here for more information, which includes family stories, self-guided tour info, a printable smaller brochure, and more!
John Muir Nature and History Route
Explore Marquette County on the John Muir Nature and History Route! The route takes you throughout the county and has 22 stops.
Click here to learn more about the route.
You can also use the QR reader on your smartphone to scan the QR code on the sign at each site to learn more about that stop on the route!
Montello Walking Tour
Take a stroll around Montello and learn more about the history of the city.
Click here for a link to the self-guided walking tour
Military Equipment
Check out several pieces of military equipment that are on display around the county! You can find a M1A2 155mm howitzer along Hwy. 23 in downtown Briggsville. The Endeavor Lion’s Park is home to both an M60A3 tank and a UH-1 Huey, located on Church St./Hwy. CX. You can also find a M60A3 tank at both the Neenah Valley VFW Post 6003 at N3250 1st Dr. Oxford and the Weiske-Farrell American Legion Post 351 just outside of Montello on Hwy. 23 east.
Rustic Road
Enjoy a ride down our state designated “Rustic Road” located in Buffalo Township on the south east part of the county. Click here for more information on our Rustic Road.
Military Equipment
There are several places around Marquette County where you can see retired military equipment. A UH-1 Huey can be found at Endeavor Lions Park at 400 S. Church St. in Endeavor.
A M1A2 155mm Howitzer is located by the gazebo on Hwy. 23 in downtown Briggsville.
There are three places in Marquette County that have M60A3 tanks, Endeavor Lions Park; Weiske-Farrell American Legion Post 351, located east of Montello at W3008 Hwy. 23; and the the Neenah Valley VFW Post 6003, located at N3250 1st Dr., Oxford.
Artesian Well
People come from miles around to take water home from the artesian well that runs year-round on Pioneer Park Road in Westfield. Bring some jugs and fill up!
The Big Tree
Located on Underwood Ave. (Hwy. 23), just west of downtown Montello, this Eastern Cottonwood is currently registered as the seventh largest tree in Wisconsin. There is an area where you can pull off to view the tree, but please respect the private property that it grows on.
Breezy Hollow Farm
A fall favorite located north of Montello at W4146 12th Rd, Breezy Hollow Farms offers fun for the family. Visit the pumpkin patch, play games, or go through the corn maze. Check out their Facebook page here. View their website here.
Shamba Safari
A drive-thru only wildlife park. Located W535 Eagle Rd. Neshkoro, WI. Here you can see many types of animals and feed them from your vehicle throughout the summer. There are also photo opportunities. Open seasonally.
Click here for Facebook page
Montello Theater
Catch a movie at this historic theater in downtown Montello! Check out their Facebook page by clicking here. Their website can be found by clicking here.
Marquette County Historical Society
A turn of the century gem, the Cochrane Nelson house, built in 1903, sits on the mill pond in Westfield and is home to the Marquette County Historical Society. A large collection of photos and artifacts tell the story of early Marquette County. The Riverside School, formed in 1853, also sits on the museum grounds. Regular hours are Wednesday 1 to 4 and by appointment and during special events. Click here for a link to their website.
Montello Historic Preservation Society
In 1912, J.P. Vaughn built the 2-story cement block building that would become his blacksmith shop on the first floor and hold community events on the upper level. Today it is the home of the Montello Museum and continues to host special events. Click here for their website.
Over 65 barn quilts and murals can be viewed from quaint village streets and lovely country back roads. Pick up a colorful trail map at any of six county libraries in Endeavor, Montello, Neshkoro, Oxford, Packwaukee or Westfield.
Click here for the website, which includes family stories, self-guided tour info, a printable brochure and more!
Get your groove on listening to live music around the county! Please check the calendar of events for more details on each event!
Local Businesses
The following establishments feature live bands or karaoke regularly. See their Facebook pages for more information.
Generations
1048 Ormsby Street
Click here for Facebook page
Jeanna’s American Legion
W3008 Hwy 23
Click here for Facebook page
Mike and Cathy’s Good Old Days
W995 W Northshore Drive
Click here for Facebook page
Oxford Pub and Grub
848 E Ormsby Street
Click here for Facebook page
Oxford VFW
N3250 1st Drive
Click here for Facebook page
Rustic Saloon
330 County Rd B
Click here for Facebook page
Tambears
44 W Montello St
Click here for Facebook page
Todd’s Buffalo Lake Lodge
W4011 County Rd C
Click here for Facebook page
White Lake Beach Resort
N4785 19th Ave
Click here for Facebook page
April
Spring Dance – Montello Historical Preservation Society
White Lake Brew Grass Festival
May
Montello Fish N Fun
June
Westfield Dairylicious Day
July
Neshkoro 4th of July
Marquette County Fair
Endeavor Broilerfest
Packwaukee Heritage Day
August
Volksfest
September
Westfield Chicken BBQ
Bratfest
October
White Lake Oktoberfest
Scarecrowfest
December
Neshkoro Community Chorus
Wells Point Park
Located on Underwood Ave. (Hwy. 23 West – next to the cemetery) in Montello. Turn north into the cemetery by the Wells Point sign and take the gravel road straight back to the park area. Enjoy the views of Montello Lake while your dog exercises in the fenced in area.
Krakow Park & Sunset Dr. (Dredge Bank Road)
Walk your dog along the shoreline of Buffalo Lake on Sunset Dr. (Dredge Bank Road) to the Krakow Park Fishing area on Hwy. 22 South in Montello. Pets must be kept on a leash.
John Muir County Park
Explore the boyhood home of the “Father of our National Parks” by walking the path around Ennis Lake. Pets must be kept on a leash. The park is located 7 miles south of Montello at N1424 Cty. Hwy. F.
Stan-O-Gene Park
Located at N9320 Hwy. 73, Neshkoro, just north of Neshkoro, this park boasts a trail, playground equipment, large shelter and more! Please keep your dog on a leash.
Rivers Edge Park
This gem of a downtown park is located on Hwy. 73 North in Neshkoro on the White River. Please keep your pet on a leash.
Point Park
This small park located on South State Street in Neshkoro borders the White River and offers a small shelter and picnic tables. Please keep your pet on a leash.
Apuckawa County Park
The north shore of Lake Puckaway is where you will find Apuckawa County Park at W599 Toepper Dr. Sit on a picnic table overlooking the water or take a short hike on the nature trail. Please keep your pet on a leash.
Grand River Locks
Located 3.2 miles south of Montello on Lower Locks Road, take a quick walk on the trail along the Fox River. Please keep your pet on a leash.
Be sure to check out the ice skating rink at Pioneer Park in Westfield! Open as weather permits for good ice making conditions!
Andy’s Meats and Deli
N1651 Cty. Rd CX, Endeavor
608-587-2500
Have you been to the famous Andy’s Deli in Chicago? This is where some of the meat comes from! A Polish deli is attached to the plant in Endeavor where you can get fresh pork and a variety of Polish foods! Beef is available select days of the week.
Click here for Facebook page
Brakebush Chicken Outlet Store
240 N. Pioneer Park Rd., Westfield
608-296-3234
Check out this store for all kinds of great chicken processed just south of town! Nuggets, patties, breast fillets and more!
Click here for website
Click here for Facebook page
HH Creations
227 E Montello St., Montello
608-416-3534
Homemade sweets and jellies
Click here for Facebook page
Kathleen’s Flour Bin
33 Main Street., Montello, WI
608-818-2150
Click here for their Facebook page
Nature Trails Bakery (Amish)
N531 12th Rd., Montello, WI
Open Fri. & Sat. 8am-5pm
Closed mid-Dec. until mid-March
Pleasant View Bakery (Amish)
N9541 Kiefer Rd., Dalton
Summer Hours April-Sept. 8am-4pm
Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat.
Winter Hours October-March 8am-4pm
Friday & Saturday
Reetz Meats
230 S. Main St., Neshkoro
920-293-4414
Fresh meats and sausage
Lunch Creek Winery
W1845 Cty. Hwy E, Neshkoro
920-293-1070
Great Marquette County wines!
Click here for website
Harvey Farms (Mecan River Outfitters)
W720 Hwy. 23, Princeton
920-295-3439
Frozen beef from the farm and other items
Click here for Facebook page
Milkhouse Meats (Borzick Farms)
Montello – Call for appointment
W4146 12th Rd, Montello
608-369-0261
A variety of beef cuts and seasonal vegetables
Click here for Facebook page
Click here for their website
Slowey Farms
W8106 Evergreen Ave. (Top of hill – enter door 2) (Corner of Evergreen and A)
Westfield, WI
608-296-4587
dawn.sloweyfarms@gmail.com
Contact them for an appointment or watch their Facebook page for open hours each month
Click here for Facebook page
Click here for website
Sunset Sweets by Jess
Located near Montello
Orders only – No storefront
Click here for Facebook page
Click here for their website
Wachholz Family Farms
N4973 Cty. Rd. B, Montello
608-369-2834
Naturally raised pork, grass-fed beef, chicken, eggs, produce and jellies.
Click here for Facebook page
Click here for website
18 hole championship disc golf course with dual tee pads and 2 color coated permanent pins per hole. The course is on rolling terrain in a wooded setting, and satisfies a wide range of skills. Course Design by Patrick Blake.
There is a daily charge for the course.
Located south of Montello at Wilderness Campground
Beginning in January of each year, cars and ATV’s take to area lakes for racing on our frozen lakes! For more information on races, check out the following Facebook pages-
Come stay with us for your Wisconsin golf vacation! We offer two great courses in the county that you can tee off at!
Thal Acres-Westfield
W6109 County Rd M
Click here for website
Click here for Facebook page
Thal Acres is an 18 hole public golf course in the beautiful Central Wisconsin countryside. Thal Acres features two distinct nines. The front nine gently rolling and forgiving, the back nine provides enough woods and water to challenge all!
White Lake Country Club – Montello
W1680 Country Club Drive
Click here for website
Click here for Facebook page
Our Par 72 18-hole layout with maximum distance of 6,373 yards is carved out of 200+acres of ancient glacier lands and nestled among hills, woods, and ponds. It is a must play for any avid golfer. Our golf course encompasses two sets of nines, one heading north and the other heading south of the clubhouse.
With three sets of tees on each nine our course will accommodate all abilities of golfers.
The well-maintained course is open to the public and features significant elevation changes, four dog legs, twenty-two traps, five pot bunkers and three water hazards promising to be challenging to golfers of any level.
The clubhouse with our 19th Hole bar and grill, pro shop, full service beverage carts and outdoor practice green will accommodate your every need. Large wrap around deck to enjoy lunch outside watching the golfers.
For details on these and additional events, please see our calendar. All events and dates subject to change.
January
Ice Racing
(Jan-Mar. Ice Permitting)
Lion’s Fisheree
Neshkoro Mill Pond – 2nd Sat.
Lion’s Fisheree
Lawrence Lake – Westfield – 3rd Sat.
Fisheree – Brenden’s Memorial
Lawrence Lake – 4th Sat.
Lion’s Fisheree
Lake Puckaway – Montello
Last Sat.
February
Bill Lind Memorial Fisheree
Montello Area Lakes – Montello – First Sat.
Lion’s Fisheree
Oxford – Mill Pond
3rd Sat.
April
Germainia Parade
Germainia – Last Sat.
Parade, Run, Food, Raffles, Music
Firgid Open Bass Tournament
Montello – Lake Puckaway – Last Sat.
Buffalo Lake Open Bass Tournament
Montello – Buffalo Lake – Last Sun.
Brewgrass Festival
Montello – Last Sat.
Music and food
For details on these and additional events, please see our calendar. All events and dates subject to change.
May
Fish N Fun
Montello – 1st Weekend
Rides, music, tournaments, children’s activities, food, vendor fair
Learn more on their website by clicking here
Westfield City Wide Rummage Sales
2nd Fri. & Sat.
Harrisville Tractor Pull
Memorial Day Weekend Sunday
For information call 608-296-3435
Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony
Neshkoro – Montello – Oxford-Westfield
June
Dairylicious Day
Westfield – 2nd Sat
Tournaments, music, parade, food, run
For information call 608-296-4146
Strawberry Sociable
Westfield – 2nd Sat.
Strawberry Shortcake and ice cream, music
Dairy Breakfast
Second Sunday
Food, pedal pull, music
Gilbert Brown Foundation Car Show
Montello – 2nd Sat.
Car show and sports memorabilia auction
Oxford City Wide Rummage Sale
Father’s Day Weekend
Marquette County Fair
Westfield – See Calendar for Date in Late June/Early July
Food, music, exhibits, rides, entertainment
For information visit their website by clicking here
July
4th of July Celebrations
In most communities. For a complete list visit our calendar.
Brolierfest
Endeavor – 3rd weekend
Chicken BBQ, tournaments
Heritage Day
Packwaukee – Last Sat.
Music, food, raffles
For details on these and additional events, please see our calendar. All events and dates subject to change.
September
Fireman’s Chicken BBQ
Westfield – Sat. of Labor Day weekend
Music, food, raffles, tournaments
For information call 608-296-4146
Bratfest
Harrisville – Sun. of Labor Day weekend
Music, food, tournaments, carnival rides
For information call 608-296-2553
Puckaway Pigfest
Montello – 2nd Sat.
BBQ and dessert competition
Vintage Trailer Weekend
Montello – 2nd Sat.
Vintage trailers and campsites
Pioneer Historical Days and Gun Show
Westfield – Last Weekend
Pioneer Camp, vendors, gun and collectible show
For information call 608-296-4146
October
Scarecrow Festival
Neshkoro – 2nd Sat
Crafters, hayrides, food, scarecrow contest
Harvest Dance
Montello – 2nd Sat.
November
Holiday Trail
Montello – Sat. before Thanksgiving
Crafters and Vendors
Taste & Tour
Westfield – Fri. & Sat. after Thanksgiving
Crafters and Vendors
For information call 608-296-4146
Holiday Parade
Westfield
Friday evening after Thanksgiving
For information call 608-296-4146
For details on these and additional events, please see our calendar. All events and dates subject to change.
Apuckawa County Park
W599 Toepper Dr., Montello
This park provides a walking trail with excellent birding opportunities. Shaded areas with picnic tables are available for resting while enjoying the view of Lake Puckaway. This park is pet friendly (on leash) and has restrooms on site. Click here for the history of Apuckawa.
Daggett Memorial Park
Hwy. 23 East, Downtown Montello (Next to Kwik Trip)
Waterfalls cascading over the hardest granite in the world is the backdrop for this quaint downtown Montello Park. This park is great for taking photos. Sorry, no pets allowed. Click here for the history of the Montello Granite Quarry.
Endeavor Village Park
400 S. Church St., Endeavor
This park has a shelter for gatherings and playground equipment for children. Sorry, no dogs allowed. To reserve a shelter, please call the Village Hall at 608-587-2486
Fireman’s Park
Corner of Cty. Hwy. J & Dandy St., Harrisville
Located in the heart of Marquette County, this park has a country feel. It offers opportunities for fun and games for all ages with playground equipment, volleyball courts and a ball diamond. Sorry, no dogs allowed. To reserve the firemen’s park shelter contact Karla Marotz (608)-296-3932. To reserve the Manthey Memorial Pavilion contact Phyllis Ingram (608)-296-4711. To reserve the sportsmen’s club contact Randy Winkler(608)-296-2240
John Muir County Park
N1424 Cty. Hwy. F, Montello
Explore the boyhood home of John Muir, the father of our National Parks. Saunter around the property on the trail that circles Ennis Lake. the lake is also popular for canoeing, kayaking and fishing. The park also boasts a natural playground for children. To reserve the shelter, please contact the Parks and Rural Planning office at 608-296-2815 ext. 4. Dogs on leash are allowed at this park.
Krakow Park
Hwy. 22 South (Main St.), Montello *NOTE: ADA access bridge is currently unavailable
Visitors from all over the state come here to catch walleye, bass, catfish and bluegills. Park on Water St. to picnic on top of the hill or walk down the trail to the Fox River. You can also park at the Hwy. 22 lot for easy access to an ADA fishing pier or walk the shore of Buffalo Lake. Dogs on leash are allowed at this park. Click here for the history of Buffalo Lake.
Marquette Park on the Mont L’eau
Hwy. 22/Hwy. 23/Sunset Dr., Montello
This downtown Montello park borders the Montello River. Park at city hall and enter across the street from the south side of the parking lot or park at the boat ramp on Sunset Dr. and enter from the back side of the parking lot. The trail will take you to the Montello River, which flows along Hwy. 22. There are several benches, historical kiosks, and a gazebo on the property.
Meadowbrook Park
242 Meadowlark Dr., Westfield
This park has playground equipment for children and the adjacent lot offers shore fishing opportunities on the millpond. Sorry, no dogs allowed at this park.
Montello City Park
300 Doty St. (Cty. Hwy. Y), Montello
Set on the shoreline of Montello Lake, this 11 acre park is a favorite place to relax under the shade of mature oaks, cast a line for bluegills, catch some rays at the beach, or explore the playground. Sorry, no dogs allowed at this park. To reserve a shelter please contact City Hall at 608-297-2727 Ext. 2
Oxford Village Park
S. Miller St. & W. Chauncey St., Oxford
With tennis courts, ball diamonds, and volleyball courts, this park is a favorite of sports enthusiasts. There is also playground equipment and shelters for family gatherings and events. Sorry, no dogs allowed at this park. To reserve a shelter contact Village Hall at 608-586-4488.
Pioneer Park
316 E. Pioneer Park Rd., Westfield
Click here for shelter rental information
This spacious 12 acre park offers playground equipment, splash pad, walking trails and several shelters for gatherings. Sorry, no dogs allowed at this park.
Point Park
S. State St., Neshkoro
Have a picnic at this quiet park that borders the White River in a rustic and natural setting. Dogs on leash are allowed at this park.
Rivers Edge Park
N. Hwy. 73, Downtown Neshkoro
The White River flows along the edge of this downtown Neshkoro park that is home to a concert series in the summer and Scarecrowfest in the fall. You can also go shore fishing from the platform on the White River. Dogs on leash are allowed at this park.
Stan-O-Gene Park
1.8 miles north of Neshkoro, Hwy. 73
Located just outside of Neshkoro, visitors can walk through woods on trails, play a game of baseball, or simply enjoy the Marquette County countryside. To reserve a shelter please contact Village Hall at 920-293-4410 Dogs on leash are allowed at this park.
Tuttle Lake Beach
N7821 Tuttle Lake Rd., Neshkoro
Enjoy the clear waters of Tuttle Lake by cooling off at the beach!
Veterans Memorial Park
127 N. Main St, Westfield
A veterans memorial is the center of this downtown Westfield park. An ADA accessible pier is also available for fishing or reflecting over the mill pond. Sorry, no dogs allowed at this park.
Washington Square Park
Liberty St. & Walnut St., Packwaukee
At the heart of Packwaukee, Washington Square Park offers playground equipment, recreation and wide open spaces for all to enjoy! Sorry, no dogs allowed at this park. Click here for park shelter rental information.
William Lange Park
Located on Water Street in Harrisville
Enjoy the views of Harris Pond from the benches or picnic tables. Cast a line and try to catch a fish while you are there! Sorry, no dogs allowed at this park.
Wells Point Park
481 Underwood Ave., Montello
This small, quiet park is a peninsula that extends out into Montello Lake. There is also a dog park located on this property.
The Amish community is located about ten miles south of Montello. Many of the stores are located in the area of Barry Rd. and Hwy. 22. Here you can find a bulk food store, bakery, furniture shop, greenhouse and more.
Almost all stores are closed on Sunday and Thursday. Most are also closed on New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, the 7th Monday after Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the day after Christmas. They are typically open on Memorial Day and Labor Day. They are also typically open on 4th of July, unless it falls on a Thursday or Sunday. Note that this is subject to change. It should also be noted that a funeral or other unexpected circumstance may cause a business or businesses to close for a day.
Please remember to drive slowly in this area, as there is a lot of pedestrian and horse and buggy activity. There are typically no phones available in Amish country and most correspondence is done by mail.
The following is a partial list of the shops you will find. Hours subject to change. Please see above for information on holidays and general closures.
An Amish map can be found by clicking here
Pleasant View Bakery
N9541 Kiefer Rd., Dalton
Summer Hours April-Sept. 8am-4pm
Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat.
Winter Hours October-March 8am-4pm
Friday & Saturday
Amish Vegetables & Brown Eggs
W7214 Barry Rd., Dalton
M&M Pet Supply
W5115 Barry Rd., Dalton
Mon.-Wed., Fri.-Sat. 8am-5pm
Lilac Furniture Gallery/Woodshop
W1996 Barry Rd., Dalton
lilacfurnituregallery.com
608-617-2662
Mon.-Wed. 9am-5pm, Fri.-Sat. 8am-5pm
Mishler’s Country Store
W5115 Barry Rd, Dalton
Mon.-Wed., Fri.-Sat. 8am-5pm
Mast Buggy Shop
W5253 Barry Rd., Pardeeville
Schwartz Greenhaus
W2214 Barry Rd., Pardeeville
Mon-Sat. 8am-5pm
(Note this is one of the few Amish places typically open on Thursday)
Maple Lane Woodshop
N9896 Cty. Hwy. EE, Dalton
Miller Small Engine
N115 15th Rd., Pardeeville
Woodside Greenhouse
N941 Hwy. 22, Dalton
Mon-Sat. 7:30am-5:30pm
(Note this is one of the few Amish places typically open on Thursday)
Cedar Lane Furniture
N9698 Kiefer Rd., Dalton
Mast Bent & Dent
N2086 Barry Rd., Pardeeville
Mon. 1pm-4:30pm, Tues., Wed. Fri., Sat. 8-5
Homestyle Furniture
W2182 Barry Rd., Pardeeville
Closed Thurs. & Sun.
Nature Trails Bakery
N531 12th Rd., Montello, WI
Open Fri. & Sat. 8am-5pm
Closed mid-Dec. until mid-March
Flower Haven Perennials
N9379 Comstock Rd., Pardeeville
Hand Made Baskets
N9520 Kiefer Rd., Dalton
Lakeside Fabrics
W5423 Military Rd., Pardeeville
Mon.-Wed., Fri.-Sat. 8am-5pm
Marquette County is home to an abundance of wildlife. Take an early evening drive through the countryside and you are bound to see many deer, turkeys and cranes. Our woods are home to white, black, grey and fox squirrels. If you are lucky you may spot rabbits, fox, beaver, muskrats or coyotes as you venture through the county.
Marquette County received a designation as an official Bird County in 2012. The diverse landscape is a mecca for birds of all species! More than 300 species of birds will migrate through, nest, or make Marquette County their home.
Below is a list of some of the best places for birding in Marquette County. Additional bird information can be found on the John Muir Nature and History Route by clicking here
Observatory Hill
The mix of oaks, basswoods and cedar trees attract many songbirds, including Scarlet Tanagers, Cedar Waxwings, Red-Eyed Vireos, and Golden-Crowned Kinglets. In the winter you can find the Townsend’s Solitaire here.
Mecan River State Fishery Area
This property is a combination of forests, marshlands and meadows. This is a great place to find turkeys, warblers, woodpeckers, and sedge wrens.
Germainia Marsh
Here you will find a mix of woods, meadows and marsh. This is a great location to view ducks that are migrating through the area in the spring and fall. Other common birds are the Great Blue Heron, Sora and Virginia Rail, Marsh Wren, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Ovenbird, Wood Thrush, Scarlet Tanager, Yellow-throated Vireo, Blue-winged Warbler, American Redstart, Cedar Waxwing, and Yellow Warbler.
John Muir County Park
At the land that was the boyhood home of John Muir you will find many species in the meadows and woods that surround Ennis Lake. These include the Red-winged Blackbird, Eastern Kingbird, Eastern Bluebird, Song Sparrow, American Kestrel, Northern Harrier, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Tree Swallow and Woodpeckers.
Bessie Eggleston Property
Explore the woods and meadows of this property just down the road from John Muir County Park. View Cedar Waxwings, Eastern Bluebirds, Scarlet Tanagers, Great-crested Flycatchers, Indigo Buntings, Woodpeckers, Chestnut-sided Warblers, Ovenbirds, American Redstarts, Field Sparrows, Vesper Sparrows, Alder Flycatchers and Black-capped Chickadees.
John Muir Wayside/Prairie
Located on Hwy. 22 on the southern end of the county is the John Muir Wayside where you can look out over a prairie to find grassland birds including Song Sparrows, Field Sparrows, Savannah Sparrows, Red-winged Blackbirds and Dickcissels.
Fox River/Hwy. O Boat Landing
Look along the edge of the river to see Red-winged Blackbirds and Song Sparrows. Under the bring you will find Barn Swallows and Eastern Phoebes nesting. You can find Tree Swallows, Common Grackles, and Baltimore Orioles nesting in the trees across from the boat landing.
Merritt’s Landing
The cattails that border the Fox River as it winds through Endeavor is a great place to see Great-blue Herons, Forster’s and Black Terns, Marsh Wrens and Common Gallinules in the summer. During the spring and fall you will find both puddle and diving ducks that are migrating through the area.
Packwaukee
Washington Park is home to nesting Eastern Bluebirds, American Robins, House Wrens, Tufted Titmice, Tree Swallows and Purple Martins. You can also view waterfowl in the spring and fall on Buffalo Lake by standing on the causeway.
Westfield Mill Pond
Thousands of geese stop to rest on the mill pond every fall as they migrate through the county. Also found in the area are American Robins, House Finches, Baltimore Orioles, Tree Swallows and Chimney Swifts.
Mecan Pine Oak State Natural Area
This is a favorite of owl lovers! Here you will find both Barred Owls and Great-Horned Owls. There are also Common Ravens, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Red-eyed Vireo, Pileated Woodpeckers, Ovenbirds, Eastern Towhee Wood Thrush, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, Eastern Wood Pewee, Whip-poor-Will, and Scarlet Tanagers.
Comstock Bog
Located north of Montello on Highway 22, Comstock Bog offers chances for viewing Barred Owls, Long-eared Owls, Northern Harriers, March Wrens, Bobolink, Willow and Alder Flycatchers, Common Yellowthroat, Song Sparrows, Swamp Sparrows, Wilson’s Snip and American Woodcock.
Apuckawa
Located on the shore of Lake Puckaway, Apuckawa Park is the home to several nesting species such as Purple Martin, Tree Swallow, Eastern Bluebird, Common Tern, Black Tern, Forster’s Tern, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Eastern Pewee, Common Yellowthroat, Red-headed Woodpecker, Mourning Dove, Great Egret, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Red-eyed Vireo and Warbling Vireo. Waterfowl can be seen in the spring and fall.
Buffalo Lake Landing
Located west of Montello on County Highway C, you can view waterfowl on Buffalo Lake in the spring and fall. Walk along the short trail on the east side of the landing for a chance to see Red-shouldered Hawk, Song Sparrow, Tufted Titmouse, Tree Swallow, Grey Catbird, and Common Yellowthroat.
Outfitters
The following businesses offer canoe and kayak rentals. Have your own? They also offer drop-off/pick-up service!
River Trips
Mecan River Outfitters and Lodge (Canoe/Kayak) – Click here for website
Rendezvous Paddle Sports (Canoe/Kayak/Tubing) – Click here for website
Lake of the Woods Campground (Canoe/Kayak) – Click here for website
Lake Puckaway
Lake Arrowhead Campground (Canoe/Kayak/Paddle Board) – Click here for website
Lawrence Lake
Boats-N-Bobbers (Canoe/Kayak/Paddle Board) – Click here for Facebook page
Lakes to Paddle
Ennis Lake
Located at John Muir County Park, enjoy the same peaceful 30-acre lake that John Muir came to love in his boyhood. There are no motorized boats allowed on the lake.
Moon (Birch) Lake
Located just west of Montello, enjoy a quiet paddle on this lake on which no motorized boats are allowed.
Rivers
CLICK HERE FOR A WEB BASED MAP SHOWING PADDLE ROUTES
Mecan River – Trip I
Put-in: 11th Road Bridge
Take-out: Cty. Hwy. JJ
Distance: 3.7 miles
There is a a pull off area 100′ feet to the north of the bridge at 11th Rd. Great water quality over a sandy river bottom.
Mecan River – Trip II
Put-in at Cty. Hwy. Y/JJ
Take-out at Hwy. 22
Distance:10 miles
Paddling the Mecan River, you will find clean water with strong current and a few riffles and tight turns. Paddlers often view deer, turtles and trout along this stretch of river.
Mecan River – Germania
Put-in: Germania Marsh
Take-out: Hwy. N
Distance: 6 miles
There is a class 2 chute under the Eagle Road bridge with a very good flow rate and height. The marsh provides a flat paddle where waterfowl is abundant in the spring and fall.
Fox River – Endeavor
Put-in: Hwy. O Public Launch
Take-out: North River Road Public Launch (Endeavor) or Island Drive Launch (Endeavor)
Distance: 6-8 miles
A very open paddle with lots of cattails. The river is over 100 feet wide in many areas, and does not have a lot of current. Great for seeing waterfowl in the fall or spring. There are also a lot of deer, cranes and turtles in the area.
Fox River – Montello
Put-in: Krakow Park or across the road from Krakow Park.
Take-out: Grand River Locks – Public Landing
Distance: 5 miles
Both wooded and sandy banks on a fairly wide river. See cranes, beavers, deer and turtles.
White River
Put-in: Neshkoro Dam
Take-out: 22nd Ave. Public Launch
Distance: 3.43 miles
A peaceful river with clear, cool water.
Neenah Creek
Put-in:W. Chauncey St. Bridge
Take-out: Hwy. A Bridge
Distance: 6 miles
Cool, clear creek with a sandy bottom. A great place to view waterfowl.
Montello City Park Beach
Cool off at Montello City Beach, located on the south west side of the City Park on Doty St. Park near the basketball courts and south ball diamond then walk down behind the south ball diamond. Please note there are no lifeguards on duty.
Tuttle Lake Beach
Swim in the crystal clear water of Tuttle Lake. Tuttle Beach is located north east of Montello and south west of Neshkoro at N7821 Tuttle Lake Rd. off of Duck Creek Ave. Please note there are no life guards on duty.
Pioneer Park Splash Pad-Westfield
Enjoy the splash pad installed in 2018 at Pioneer Park in Westfield. The park has shelters, restrooms, and playground equipment. Located on Pioneer Park Road in Westfield.
Wilderness Campground – Swimming Pond and Pool
Take a dip in the pond or the pool at Wilderness Campground. Located south of Montello at N1499 St. Hwy 22. There is a daily fee that will be charged for non-campers.
The Mecan River Fishery Area contains some of the finest trout streams in central Wisconsin. The waters are generally crystal-clear and support excellent natural trout reproduction through 31.1 miles of the total 48.7 miles of stream length. Chaffee and Wedde Creeks and the Mecan River are three of only a few streams in the entire state that have naturally reproducing rainbow trout populations.
For more information click here
John A Lawton Fishery Area (Tagatz Creek)
John A Lawton Fishery Area (previously named Tagatz Creek Fishery Area) is located in the northwestern quarter of Marquette County. The clear, spring-fed waters of Tagatz Creek have natural brook trout reproduction throughout its 16.2 miles of trout stream length. Tagatz Creek is known as one of the better brook trout streams in southern WI.
For more information click here
Caves Creek Fishery Area
Caves Creek Fishery Area is high quality trout water. The waters are generally crystal clear. There have been stream bank improvement projects throughout the system enhancing the already excellent fishing opportunities. The state ownership is 823 acres of fragmented parcels stretched along the stream’s 14 mile corridor. Some of the acres are held in perpetual easement intended to protect the stream shorelines and provide access to fisherman.
The clear, spring-fed waters of Caves Creek have areas of natural brook trout reproduction throughout its 12.1 miles of stream length. Caves Creek is regarded as one of the better brook trout streams in southern Wisconsin.
Click here for more information
Lawrence Creek Fish and Wildlife Area
Lawrence Creek Fish and Wildlife Area is a 961 acre parcel surrounding Lawrence Creek and it’s headwaters. It’s located in the northwestern part of Marquette County and east-central Adams County. The stream is high quality trout water. The waters are generally crystal clear. There have been various stream bank improvement projects within the stream enhancing the already excellent fishing opportunities.
Driving Directions
From the intersection of County Highways A and E in Lawrence, go north on A 0.8 mile, then west on Eagle Avenue 2.5 miles to a parking area north of the road. A trail leads north to the creek
The Shore Fishing Capitol of Wisconsin!
No boat? No problem! Some of the best shore fishing in Wisconsin is found right here in Marquette County!
Krakow Park (Fox River and Buffalo Lake)
Located on Hwy.22 South in Montello, Krakow Park is just one of the reasons the Montello Area is known as the “Shore Fishing Capital of Wisconsin”
The fishing kicks off by the spillway with a walleye run in the spring, followed by white bass and crappie. As the temperatures rise, the catfish start to come in. On the “lake” side of the park, pan fish are found year-round, along with pike and bass.
Picnic tables, benches, and a handicap accessible wooden fishing pier are located on the lower (north) end of the park. There is also a pier on the corner of the dredge bank. (Please note the bridge tbetween the parking lot and pier by the dam is currently closed off. You have to exit the parking lot and take the sidewalk to the lawn area. From there walk across the lawn to the pier.) There is parking for this area in a lot off of Hwy. 22.
In addition, picnic tables and a path to a bank fishing area are accessible from the upper (south) end of the park at the Water St. entrance. Parking is available on Water St.
Montello City Park (Montello Lake)
Walk through the park and fish the natural shoreline of Montello Lake for pan fish and bass. Located on Doty St. in Montello.
Harrisville (Harris Pond)
Enjoy catching pan fish and bass from the pier at the boat launch off Hwy. B (turn right by the Lutheran Church) or from shore at Water St. at Wm. Lange Park.
Packwaukee Causeway (Fox River and Buffalo Lake) *The Causeway will be closed for construction from June 17th, 2024 through some time in September of 2024.
NOTE: The Causeway will be closed from June 17th 2024 through some time in September of 2024 for construction. Catch bass, pike and pan fish from the causeway (Hwy. D) that separates the Fox River from Buffalo Lake. In the fall of 2017 the causeway was reconstructed, adding parking lanes and fishing platforms to make it a great spot to stop and catch a meal!
Montello Upper Fox River (Grand River Lock & Dam)
This is a popular area during the spring fishing runs. Cross the walking bridge and follow the river to a pier on the bend or fish the old locks! Located about 2 miles south of Montello on Hwy. 22 on Lower Locks Road.
Westfield Veterans Memorial Park (Westfield Mill Pond)
This quiet park features an ADA accessible pier for fishing. Parking is on the road. Located at 127 N. Main St.
Riverview Park (White River)
Riverview Park is located off of Hwy. 73 on the north side of Neshkoro, where you can cast a line from the platform on the edge of the water.
Apuckawa Birding & Nature Trail
From the stop light in Montello, go east on Hwy. 23 .6 of a mile, turn right on Hwy. C, go 6 miles to 4-way stop. Continue straight on Fox Ct. Turn right on Toepper Dr. to parking area.
On this .8 of a mile trail starting from the boat landing parking lot on the northeast corner through a hardwood forest and remnant prairie, you may be lucky to catch a glimpse of a white squirrel. In past bird surveys, birders recorded over 100 species of birds, including those seen from the boat landing on Lake Puckaway. Click here for the history of Apuckawa. Click here to see a detailed brochure on the trial.
Grand River Locks
The trail is located at the end of Lower Locks Rd., 3.2 miles south of Montello off of Hwy.22.
Bordering the Fox River, this site has a handicap accessible fishing pier and trail. It’s a great area for bird watching and easy walking. Click here for the history of the Grand River Locks.
John Muir County Park
The county park is located 8 miles south of Montello at N1595 County Rd. F
John Muir County Park, once known as Fountain Lake Farm, is where the Muir Family built their first home after immigrating to Marquette County from Dunbar, Scotland. A young John Muir, who would later become known as the Father of National Parks, was greatly influenced by this land and tried to purchase it several times throughout his life to preserve it. Visitors may explore the 125 acre park by hiking the trail that circles 30 acre Ennis Lake and passes through 7 different habitats. You can find the wonderful wilderness that he came to love by sauntering the public lands and trails of his boyhood home. Click here for the history of John Muir.
Marquette Park on the Mont L’eau
A popular place to walk in Montello is Sunset Dr. (locally referred to “The Dredge Bank”), between this road and Hwy. 22 is a park with a trail that leads to the Montello River. One end of the trail starts downtown. You can park in the city hall parking lot and enter by the black fence on W. Montello St. The trail will take you behind the downtown area towards Hwy. 22, where you will find a gazebo and the Montello River. Continuing on, you will exit the trail in the parking lot of the boat launch on Sunset Dr.
From there you can go north on Sunset Dr. towards the Krakow Fisheries Area and loop back around to the downtown. You can also go south on Sunset Dr. and walk along the shore of Buffalo Lake. This is the shortest distance back to downtown.
Observatory Hill
From Montello, take County Road F south about 5 miles; turn left on 14th Rd. Go a half mile to 13th Rd., turn right for 1.4 miles, then left on Gillette Avenue .6 miles to the parking lot.
This mile-long primitive trail will take you to the highest point in Marquette County for a spectacular panoramic view. The hill is an isolated outcropping of porphyritic rhyolite that rises 300 feet above the surrounding landscape. This volcanic rock has been dated to 1.76 billion years ago and contains grooves created by a glacier over 12,000 years ago. Click here for the history of Observatory Hill.
Marquette County Road Routes
Our ten scenic road bike routes meander over 140 miles of Marquette County’s naturally magnificent countryside.
CLICK HERE FOR A WEB BASED MAP (SCROLL TO RECREATION AND CLICK EXPLORE)
Marquette County Bike Routes
Briggsville Loop (10 miles) Begin at the parking lot next to the fire department. Travel north on Co. A through the gently rolling Neenah Creek Valley. As you head back to Briggsville Co. X, turn left onto Hwy. 23 and at the top of the hill turn right onto Nebraska St. an go down the hill past the dam. Turn left on CTY A back to the parking area.
Oxford Loop (14.5 miles) Start at the Oxford Village Hall and ride south on CTY A. Take a left on CTY P, left on CTY O, left on CTY D and right on CTY A back to the parking area. This route takes you through the gently rolling Neenah Creek Valley.
Northwest Passage (17.5 miles) Begin at Pioneer Memorial Park in Westfield (don’t forget to get water at the artesian well across from the park) and ride west on Pioneer Park Rd. Cross CTY CH and take Pioneer Park Rd. which turns into to Eagle Ave. Take Eagle Ave to CTY A, right on CTY A, continuing straight on 4th Ave. as you cross CTY M. Take a left on 4th Rd, right on Dakota Drive, right on CTY CH and follow back into the village and turn right onto Pioneer Park Rd back to the parting area. This route has a lot of hills and curves.
Newton Township Trail (15 miles) Park at the Newton Town Hall on Co. B. Just south of the town hall, pedal east on Dixie Lane and begin your journey. Take a left on 10th Rd. Turn right onto 11th Rd by the Newton Church. Turn right onto CTY Rd Y, a right on Duck Creek Lane, a left on CTY B, right on CTY E, and a right on 8th Rd. Take a left on Dyke Ave. where you will pass Prairie Nursery. Turn right on 7th Ct., right on Dover Ct. and continue until CTY B and take a left. Take a You’ll ride past an 1889 country church, several old country schools, and Prairie Nursery.
Mecan River Circuit (9 miles) Park at the Park and Ride off of Dixie Ave., just west of Hwy. 22. Take a left on Dixie Ln., left on 14th Ave., a right on Duck Creek Ave., a right on 13th Ave. Continue straight onto CTY Y, take a right on Deerborn, a right on 14th Ave., and left on Dixie Ave. returning to the Park and Ride. This route features rolling hills, crosses several streams, and travels through quite a bit of forested state land.
Tuttle Lake Trek (10 miles) Begin at the Tuttle Lake Boat Launch and Beach, on Tuttle Lake Road. Take a right on Tuttle Lake Rd., then left at Duck Creek Ave., take a right on CTY N, right on Eagle Rd. Go straight across HWY 22 to 15th Dr., right on CTY E. Go straight across HWY 22 onto Duck Creek Ave. Turn left onto Tuttle Lake Rd and back to the boat launch. This route crosses the Mecan River twice and takes you around Germania Marsh Wildlife Area.
Germainia Jaunt (19 miles) Start at the Montello City Park on Doty St. Ride south to Park, turn left and Park St. This will take you out of the city to the junction with 16th Rd. Take a left onto 16th Rd., take a left on 17th Ct., right on Elk Ct., left on 18th Ave. Continue straight across CTY J on 18th Ave. Turn right on Edgewood Rd., left on CTY N, left on Eagle Rd., left on 18th Ave., right onto Edgewood Rd., left on CTY J, right on 17th Ct., right on 16th Rd., right on Park St., right on Doty St. and back to the city park. At the northern part of this journey, you will pass Comstock Lake and the Germania Marsh Wildlife Area.
Lake Puckaway Loop (14 miles) Park at the Lake Puckaway Boat Launch Site at Fox Court and Toepper Drive. Begin by taking a left on Fox Ct., continuing onto CTY C, take a right on 18th Rd., right on Fern Ave., Left on 19th Ave., right on Evergreen Lane, right on Town Hall Rd. Continue straight on Fawn Dr., right on CTY C, a left on Riverview, right on 22nd Ct., left on Fern Dr., Right on 22nd Lane back to Fox Ct and take a right. This ride will take you through the Puckaway Marsh, and further north, past White Lake. Stop at the resort there and meet the “free-ranging” peacocks.
Buffalo Lake Route (16 miles) Begin at the public parking lot at Montello City Hall. Pick up the route on the other side of city hall on CTY C and head west. Follow CTY C along the north shore of Buffalo Lake, enjoying many scenic vistas along this relatively flat road. Once in Packwaukee, continue on Wisconsin St., take a right on Main St., and left on CTY D across the causeway. Take a left on CTY K, left on HWY 22, and a left at HWY 23 and back downtown Montello and the city parking lot.
Muir Park Path (15 miles) Start at John Muir Park, boyhood home of the famous naturalist. From the entrance of the Park on Co. F, turn right and travel north. Take a right on Gillette Drive. Left on 13th Road and continue on 13th until you take a left on 14th Road. Then, a right on County Road F. Left on Gale Court, left on Gale Ave, right on 11th Drive, left on County Road D. Follow D until 10th Road and take a left. Continue to follow 10th Road until County Road F and take a right. Then end at John Muir Park. This path features many rolling hills.
Marquette County is a hunters paradise. Two-thirds of the county’s 320,000 acres consist of primitive oak and pine forest, along with many corn and soybean fields we farm.
This provides a perfect habitat for white-tailed deer, pheasant, wild turkey, and waterfowl.
Small game is also plentiful, ranging from cotton-tail rabbit and grey squirrels, to raccoon and coyote. There are several public hunting grounds throughout the county.
Click here to go to the Wisconsin DNR website for information on public hunting lands in Marquette County.
Pheasant hunting
Mecan River Outfitters
W720 Hwy. 23, Princeton
920-295-3439
Click here for their Facebook page
Lone Oak Shooting Preserve
N3976 County Rd. C, Montello
608-297-7104
Click here for their Facebook page
French Creek Wildlife Area
The French Creek Wildlife Area in Buffalo Township is stocked with pheasants by the DNR each fall.
Click here for DNR page with mapping tools.
Sportsman’s Clubs
Montello Bow Benders
N3736 State Rd. 22, Montello
608-697-7755
Click here for their Facebook page
Westfield Rod & Gun Club
Pioneer Park Rd., Westfield
920-960-4648
Sporting Goods
Holliday
Bait, Licenses, Supplies, Ammo
326 Main St., Montello
Click here for their Facebook page
Minnow Bucket
Bait/Supplies
321 Franklin Ave., Oxford
608.408.4799
Click here for their Facebook page
Ultimart
Bait/Licenses/Supplies
510 Main St., Neshkoro
920-293-4389
Click here for their Facebook page
Virch’s True Value
Bait/Licenses/Supplies/Ammo
200 S. Main St., Westfield
608-296-2444
Click here for their Facebook page
Thousands of acres of public land is available for exploring Marquette County in the winter on cross-country skis or snowshoes. For a peaceful day on groomed trails, Mecan River Outfitters and Lodge offers skiing opportunities on their property.
Boat Rentals
Boats can be rented from Johnson’s Boats and Motors in Montello. They will deliver pontoons to the lake you wish to use them on.
Lake Arrowhead Campground has boats available for rent on Lake Puckaway.
Boats-N-Bobbers has pontoon rentals available on Lawrence Lake.
Annual Boat Launch Pass Information –
Landings managed by Marquette County Government:
The Boat Launch Permit forms can be found on the Marquette County website; http://www.co.marquette.wi.us/ under the Parks and Rural Planning Department. Please fill out the Boat Launch Permit Application form, and send with payment. Once we receive your application, we will then process your form and mail your boating pass back to you.
You may also pick up a pass in-person at one of these locations:
Land and Water Conservation Office – 438 Industrial Dr., Suite 1, Westfield.
County Clerk’s Office – 77 W. Park St., Montello.
The annual pass can be used at all of following launches: Lake Puckaway – Apuckwa Launch; Buffalo Lake- Sunset Dr./Dredge Bank Road launch in Montello; Hwy. C boat launch between Montello and Packwaukee; Freedom Road launch in Packwaukee, Tuttle Lake, and the Grand River Locks on Hwy. 22 south of Montello.
If you have any questions, please call 608-296-2815, Ext. 4.
Landings Managed by the Town of Packwaukee:
The annual pass is good at the following landings – Buffalo Lake – Freedom Road Launch, Buffalo Lake – Hollenbeck Launch, Williams Lake
Information on obtaining a pass can be found by clicking here.
Over 20 of Marquette County’s lakes have public boat access. Cast off and enjoy a leisurely pontoon ride around your favorite lake or spend the day tubing or skiing in your runabout.
Rentals –
Boats can be rented from Johnson’s Boats and Motors in Montello. They will deliver pontoons to the lake you wish to use them on.
Lake Arrowhead Campground has boats available for rent on Lake Puckaway.
Boats-N-Bobbers has pontoon rentals available on Lawrence Lake.
Annual Boat Launch Pass Information for Lake Puckaway and Buffalo Lake.
The Boat Launch Permit forms can be found on the Marquette County website; http://www.co.marquette.wi.us/ under the Parks and Rural Planning Department. Please fill out the Boat Launch Permit Application form, and send with payment to us. The cost of the Annual Boat Launch Passes will again be $20.00. Once we receive your application, we will then process your form and mail your boating pass back to you. You may also stop in our office as well to register for your boat launch pass.
The annual pass can be used at all of following launches: Lake Puckaway – Apuckwa Launch; Buffalo Lake- Sunset Dr./Dredge Bank Road launch in Montello; Hwy. C boat launch between Montello and Packwaukee; Freedom Road launch in Packwaukee.
If you have any questions, please call 608-296-2815, Ext. 4.
Ice Racing
You don’t want to miss seeing cars race o a frozen lake!
Check out this Facebook page for more information
Snowmobiling
Marquette County’s gentle rolling hills and valleys, frozen lakes, and wetlands are criss-crossed with over 240 miles of marked and groomed snowmobile trails. The trails are maintained by the county’s six snowmobile associations. Most of the trails are on private land.
For a web-based trail map, please click here.
Check out the snowmobile club website by clicking here.
Snowmobilers can find the status of trail conditions on the state Snow Report on travelwisconsin.com or by calling the Marquette County Snowmobile Hotline at 608-586-6272.
Click on each name below for Facebook pages:
Marquette County Snowmobile Association
Neshkoro White River E-Z Riders
Enjoy Marquette County on your ATV or UTV. There are over 300 miles of road routes for ATV travel in Marquette County. To learn more about the routes or where to obtain a map, please click here to visit the Marquette County ATV Club website.