Homewood State Recreation Area wilderness guide
State Recreation Area · WI

Homewood State Recreation Area

Homewood State Recreation Area is a scenic outdoor destination offering diverse recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, and camping along the shores of the Chippewa River in Wisconsin.

State Recreation Area1,1004+ Trails

Designation

State Recreation Area

Total Wilderness Area

1,100

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Homewood State Recreation Area

Homewood State Recreation Area is a scenic outdoor destination offering diverse recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, and camping along the shores of the Chippewa River in Wisconsin.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Homewood State Recreation Area is a tranquil natural area located in Eau Claire County, Wisconsin, along the Chippewa River. The recreation area spans diverse terrain featuring river bluffs, hardwood forests, and open meadows. This setting supports a variety of local wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species, making it a favored spot for wildlife observation and nature photography. Established as a state recreation area, Homewood offers visitors ample space for hiking on well-maintained trails that follow scenic river views and pass through wooded habitats. Anglers frequent the Chippewa River for its populations of smallmouth bass and other game fish. Camping facilities allow for overnight stays, blending rustic charm with accessible amenities. The area's history is closely tied to the natural resources of the Chippewa River watershed, reflecting a balance between recreation and ecosystem preservation. Visitors appreciate the quiet riverfront access and the chance to experience Wisconsin’s natural environment without heavy crowds. Seasonal changes enhance its appeal, with vibrant fall foliage and peaceful winter landscapes. The presence of picnic shelters and interpretive signage add educational value to the outdoor experience. Overall, Homewood State Recreation Area serves as a welcoming spot for families, anglers, hikers, and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors along one of Wisconsin’s major rivers.

Field Guide · State Recreation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Homewood State Recreation Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Scenic river bluff overlooks providing views of the Chippewa River✦ Diverse hardwood forests offering excellent birdwatching opportunities✦ Popular fishing spots known for smallmouth bass and northern pike✦ Quiet camping areas close to the river with rustic facilities
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Homewood State Recreation Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Homewood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Homewood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Homewood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Homewood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Homewood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Homewood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Homewood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Homewood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Trail Running

Available in Homewood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Homewood State Recreation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Homewood State Recreation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee; parking is free with no permits required

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).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Homewood State Recreation Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Homewood Campground

Located near the Chippewa River, campground offers primitive tent sites and basic amenities in a quiet setting.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Homewood State Recreation Area

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

Altoona, Wisconsin
⌖ 3.24 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Altoona, Wisconsin

Altoona, Wisconsin is a small town offering easy access to hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and fishing along the scenic Eau Claire River. Its peaceful parks and local trails make it ideal for outdoor lovers seeking a low-key adventure spot.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
⌖ 5.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Eau Claire is an adventure hub for kayaking, hiking, and biking enthusiasts. Explore scenic trails, paddle the picturesque rivers, and enjoy the artisanal vibe that adds a creative twist to your outdoor excursions.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin
⌖ 11.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

Chippewa Falls offers outdoor lovers a great mix of hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and seasonal skiing with accessible trails and river routes surrounded by refreshing natural beauty.

Late Spring through Early Fall for warm weather activities; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Augusta, Wisconsin
⌖ 15.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Augusta, Wisconsin

Augusta, WI is a quaint town that offers easy access to quiet outdoor adventures including hiking, biking, and paddling across scenic landscapes. Perfect for unwinding in nature.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Osseo, Wisconsin
⌖ 15.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Osseo, Wisconsin

Osseo, Wisconsin offers quiet outdoor adventures from hiking and mountain biking to paddling the serene Buffalo River. With peaceful trails and seasonal skiing, it’s a refreshing escape for nature lovers seeking small-town charm.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking, Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Cadott, Wisconsin
⌖ 17.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cadott, Wisconsin

Cadott, Wisconsin offers a peaceful outdoor getaway with forested hiking and biking trails, paddling on the Chippewa River, and snowmobiling in winter. It’s a great spot for adventurers looking for quiet nature escapes in the north woods.

Late Spring to Early Fall; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Homewood State Recreation Area

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

Axes, Aim and Friendly Rivalry at Battlefield Paintball in Osseo
ADVEXPEDITION
Osseo, Wisconsin
Axe ThrowingADV Bookable

Axes, Aim and Friendly Rivalry at Battlefield Paintball in Osseo

A one-hour axe‑throwing session at Battlefield Paintball — a compact, social test of accuracy (ages 8+; up to four people per lane; $10 per hour) — this guide orients you to what to expect.

Axe ThrowingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
River Ice and Hub Shelters: A Guided Ice‑Fishing Day on Pool 4
ADVEXPEDITION
Wabasha, Minnesota
FishingADV Bookable

River Ice and Hub Shelters: A Guided Ice‑Fishing Day on Pool 4

A fully guided, all‑inclusive private ice‑fishing trip out of Wabasha that supplies tents, rods, baits and electronics and focuses on perch and panfish — useful for first‑timers and anglers new to the river.

FishingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip