A tiny Wisconsin State Park has an enormously important history. The Copper Culture State Park shares a bit of the story of the people who lived in Wisconsin thousands of years before European settlers arrived. Long before pioneers dug mines into the hills of the Upper Peninsula, this culture was making good use of the region’s copper riches. It’s an incredible story – read on to learn more about the history you’ll discover at this Wisconsin State Park.
Copper Culture State Park is located in Oconto, a city in Northeast Wisconsin. It’s right off of Highway 41 on the Oconto River and it’s just 33 minutes from Green Bay, so it’s an easy day trip destination for people in Green Bay and the Fox Valley.
Google / Jeremy Maddaugh
Spanning just 42 acres, this is a tiny state park; in comparison, the popular Devil’s Lake State Park covers more than 9,200 acres!
Google / Bruce Petter
The Copper Culture State Park may be small, but it’s a very important place. It’s home to an ancient burial ground that was used by the Old Copper Complex Culture of early Native Americans more than 7,00 years ago.
Google / Bruce Petter
The site was rediscovered in 1952 by a 13-year-old boy who unearthed human bones while playing in an old quarry.
Google / Brodie Pues
The Wisconsin Archaeological Survey conducted a dig and found numerous artifacts, including many copper items like awls, crescents, clasps, a spear-point, fishhook, a bracelet, spirally-coiled tubing, a rivet, and a spatula.
Google / Michael B.
At one time, the park was believed to be location the earliest human settlement in North America east of the Mississippi River. A museum in the park details the long and important history here. The park is also a pleasant place to connect with nature. You’ll find a pavilion, picnic areas, fishing areas, and walking and hiking trails.
Google / Meilisa Brown
There’s no admission to visit the park. The museum is open seasonally, from Memorial Day until Labor Day. A tour guide is available to give an in-depth tour if desired. Learn more about the park on the state Department of Natural Resources website. While you’re in Oconto County, you may want to also take in this incredible hiking spot.
Google / Jeremy Maddaugh
Google / Bruce Petter
Google / Brodie Pues
Google / Michael B.
Google / Meilisa Brown
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Address: Copper Culture State Park, 260 Copper Culture Way, Oconto, WI 54153, USA
