Perrot State Park – Camping, Hiking, & Biking

Lori Chown
Apr 27
2 min read

Tranquil, Surreal, Peaceful

Camping in early spring stirs a special sense of adventure — breaking into nature before the crowds arrive. Even in April, you're greeted by an abundance of lively squirrels and cheerful songbirds.

You might expect the water to be the park’s most captivating feature, but for me, it was the trees. Each one seemed to tell a different story. From the sturdy elms and towering oaks to the graceful birch and whispering pines, their voices carried on the wind. Their limbs, still adorned with the remnants of last season’s leaves, reached out as if pointing the way. Along the path, intricate root systems wove together, creating natural trails and staircases — as if literally and metaphorically reminding you to stay rooted in the moment.

As the sun dipped behind the bay and bluffs, the earth whispered goodnight, wrapping the day in a sacred, golden glow.

Signs of early spring were everywhere, with each new leaf offering a quiet reminder of fresh beginnings. The purple anemones sprinkled the landscape with bursts of color, a perfect symbol of how vibrant life truly is.

The almost constant hum of the train, rolling just outside the park, was as soothing as the chorus of songbirds serenading the new day.

Tranquil, Surreal, Peaceful.

The sweet chorus of songbirds wrapped our campsite in peace, broken only by the playful chatter of a mischievous red squirrel.

No visit to Perrot State Park is complete without witnessing eagles soaring overhead. These majestic creatures have many spiritual meanings, but today it served as a powerful reminder of the simple, profound gift of freedom.

As the sun set over Trempealeau Bay, behind the bluffs towering above the Mississippi River, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the day — and a deep excitement for what tomorrow would bring. Tomorrow, we set out to bike the Great River State Trail. See you then!