Baxter's Hollow Preserve wilderness guide
Nature Preserve · WI

Baxter's Hollow Preserve

Baxter's Hollow Preserve offers a serene escape into one of Wisconsin's most pristine natural environments. Visitors enjoy hiking through old-growth forests and observing diverse wildlife throughout the year.

Nature Preserve5,0002+ Trails

Designation

Nature Preserve

Total Wilderness Area

5,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Baxter's Hollow Preserve

Baxter's Hollow Preserve offers a serene escape into one of Wisconsin's most pristine natural environments. Visitors enjoy hiking through old-growth forests and observing diverse wildlife throughout the year.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Baxter's Hollow Preserve is a stunning natural area located in the Baraboo Hills of central Wisconsin. The preserve spans approximately 5,000 acres, providing a sanctuary for a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. This wooded retreat is especially notable for its extensive forest of old-growth trees, rocky outcrops, and clear streams. Known for its biodiversity, Baxter's Hollow is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts looking to spot species such as the Acadian flycatcher and numerous varieties of warblers. The history of the preserve ties back to conservation efforts aimed at protecting the unique sandstone gorge formed by Otter Creek. Hiking is the primary recreational activity, with trails offering glimpses of beautiful wildflowers and ferns along winding paths. Baxter's Hollow is an appealing destination for those seeking quiet, solitude, and an intense connection with nature.

Field Guide · Nature Preserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Baxter's Hollow Preserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Otter Creek, known for its crystal-clear water and scenic beauty✦ Home to rare bird species, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers✦ The remarkable old-growth forest with towering trees✦ The serene environment offering solitude and quiet reflection
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Baxter's Hollow Preserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Baxter's Hollow Preserve
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Baxter's Hollow Preserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Baxter's Hollow Preserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Baxter's Hollow Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Baxter's Hollow Preserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

North Freedom, Wisconsin
⌖ 0.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Freedom, Wisconsin

North Freedom offers a quiet retreat with access to Wisconsin's natural beauty. From hiking in the Baraboo Hills to paddling at Mirror Lake, it's perfect for outdoor adventures.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Rock Springs, Wisconsin
⌖ 3.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rock Springs, Wisconsin

Rock Springs offers a peaceful retreat with access to hiking at Devil's Lake, biking through scenic landscapes, and paddling on the Baraboo River, providing a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Baraboo, Wisconsin
⌖ 5.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Baraboo, Wisconsin

Baraboo, WI is an adventure lover's haven with exceptional hiking, climbing, and paddling opportunities, especially around the iconic Devil's Lake State Park. A year-round destination with scenic charm.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Reedsburg, Wisconsin
⌖ 9.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Reedsburg, Wisconsin

Reedsburg, Wisconsin offers a welcoming outdoor escape with hiking, paddling, fishing, and cross-country skiing options. Surrounded by state parks and rivers, it’s an ideal spot for travelers seeking nature and small-town charm year-round.

Late spring to early fall for paddling and biking; winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Lake Delton, Wisconsin
⌖ 9.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lake Delton, Wisconsin

Lake Delton, Wisconsin is a vibrant lakeside town offering boating, fishing, hiking, biking, paddleboarding, and winter snowmobiling. With scenic parks nearby and lively seasons year-round, it’s a perfect base for outdoor adventure in the Dells area.

Late Spring through Early Fall for water sports; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
⌖ 11.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Wisconsin Dells offers a mix of thrilling and relaxing outdoor activities. With its iconic sandstone cliffs and lush landscapes, this destination invites you to hike, paddle, and explore.

Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Baxter's Hollow Preserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Pasture-Quiet: A Self-Guided Stroll Among Casacampo’s Alpacas
ADVEXPEDITION
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
AttractionADV Bookable

Pasture-Quiet: A Self-Guided Stroll Among Casacampo’s Alpacas

A short, unstructured visit that gives you 40 minutes of pasture access to meet and feed alpacas, llamas, and other ranch animals—this guide helps you arrive prepared and move through the ranch calmly and safely.

AttractionPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Three-Taste Loop: Wine, Orchards and Lavender Around Wisconsin Dells
ADVEXPEDITION
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
FarmADV Bookable

Three-Taste Loop: Wine, Orchards and Lavender Around Wisconsin Dells

A 3.5-hour trolley outing that pairs a glass of wine at Balanced Rock Winery with cider-and-donut stops at Ski-Hi Apple Orchard and a self-guided tour at New Life Lavender — useful for planning what’s included and the route timing.

FarmPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
A Toast on Trolley Tracks: A Limited‑Time Wine Loop Through Wisconsin Dells
ADVEXPEDITION
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
WineADV Bookable

A Toast on Trolley Tracks: A Limited‑Time Wine Loop Through Wisconsin Dells

This 4.5‑hour, limited‑time trolley tour visits three wineries in Wisconsin Dells—Balanced Rock, Fawn Creek, and Broken Bottle—covering multiple tastings, a charcuterie plate at Balanced Rock, and other winery perks to help you plan the day.

WinePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip