McClintock Park is a scenic county park along the Peshtigo River in Marinette County, Wisconsin. This quiet stop is known for its series of wooden footbridges crossing rapids, forested river views, trout fishing, and primitive campsites.
If you enjoy short nature walks, rushing water, and peaceful woodland scenery, McClintock Park is worth a visit. The walk is not long, but the bridges, rapids, mossy rocks, and mixed forest make it a memorable stop in northeastern Wisconsin.
General Info
McClintock Park sits on the Peshtigo River near Athelstane, Wisconsin. The park is especially appealing for visitors who enjoy river scenery, small footbridge walks, trout streams, and quiet county parks that feel a little tucked away from the busier tourist areas.
| Location | McClintock Park |
|---|---|
| County | Marinette County |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Address | Parkway Road, Athelstane, WI 54104 |
| Cost | $5 day-use permit per vehicle |
| Best Known For | Wooden footbridges, river rapids, trout fishing, and primitive camping |
| Camping | Primitive campsites are available |
| Google Maps | Open in Google Maps |
What To Expect
- A short walk with a series of wooden footbridges over rapids
- Scenic views of the Peshtigo River moving through rocky forested terrain
- Good trout fishing opportunities
- Primitive campsites for visitors who want to stay overnight
- Spring wildflowers, mosses, fungi, and bird activity in the surrounding woods
Although McClintock Park is not a large destination park, it offers a rewarding stop for people who appreciate smaller river parks with a quiet, natural feel. The bridges and rapids are the main draw, but the surrounding woods add a lot to the visit.
Walking The Bridges
One of the most enjoyable parts of McClintock Park is the walk across the four wooden footbridges that cross sections of the Peshtigo River rapids. As the water rushes beneath the bridges, the sound of the river becomes part of the experience and gives the park a peaceful, tucked-away feeling.
The path is not overly long, which makes this an easy stop for visitors who want scenery without committing to a major hike. Even so, there is plenty to pause for, especially if you enjoy moving water, moss-covered rocks, and the changing look of the river through the trees.
Video From McClintock Park
You can view my video from McClintock Park here: Watch the Instagram reel.
Plants and Birds You Might See
The walk along the Peshtigo River passes through mixed hardwood forest with lush moss-covered rocks and a variety of plant life. Depending on the season, visitors may spot Jack-in-the-Pulpit, bloodroot, downy yellow violet, Virgin’s-bower, and fungi such as chanterelle waxcap.
Spring into early summer can also be a rewarding time for birdwatching. Keep an eye and ear out for species such as the scarlet tanager, chestnut-sided warbler, and palm warbler. Woodpeckers may also be present, including the pileated woodpecker and northern flicker.
Because the park combines river habitat with mixed woods, it is a nice stop for visitors who enjoy both wildflowers and birds along with the scenery of the rapids.
Trout Fishing and Camping
McClintock Park is also known for trout fishing along the Peshtigo River. Anglers often appreciate the combination of accessible river frontage, moving water, and the more peaceful setting compared with busier fishing spots.
For visitors who want to stay longer, the park also offers primitive campsites. These are best suited for people who are comfortable with fewer amenities and want a quieter overnight experience close to the river and surrounding forest.
How To Pay The Fee
All Marinette County parks require either a day-use entrance sticker or a yearly sticker. The cost is $5 per vehicle for the day or $20 for the year. A day-use sticker can be used at multiple Marinette County parks on the same day it is purchased.
There is a pay station near the park entrance. Bring exact change if possible, since that makes entry easier and faster.
Things To Know Before You Go
- The park is best enjoyed slowly, especially if you like to stop for photos and river views.
- Spring and early summer are especially nice for wildflowers, mosses, and bird activity.
- The bridges and river area can be slippery in wet weather, so sturdy shoes are a good idea.
- Bring fishing gear if you plan to spend time along the Peshtigo River.
- If you plan to camp, review the county camping information before you go.
Final Thoughts
McClintock Park is one of those smaller Marinette County parks that can easily be overlooked, yet it offers a very pleasant mix of rapids, wooden bridges, woodland scenery, and river access. It may not be a major destination park, but for visitors who enjoy tucked-away nature stops, it is a worthwhile place to explore.
If you are already exploring Marinette County waterfalls, rivers, and forest parks, McClintock Park makes a nice addition to the day. It is especially appealing for people who enjoy quiet scenery, trout streams, and a simple walk through the woods.