Family Adventure at Roche-a-Cri State Park | Things to Do in Adams, Wi with Kids

Climbing High & Slowing Down:

There’s something about those Wisconsin country roads that makes me slow down, roll down the windows, and breathe a little deeper. This past weekend, the kiddos and I packed up for a day trip to Roche-a-Cri State Park in Adams, Wisconsin — and what an adventure it turned out to be!

From the moment we spotted the towering sandstone bluff rising out of the trees, the kids were buzzing with excitement. Roche-a-Cri means “screaming rock” in French, and as we stood at the base looking up at the 300-foot bluff, I could see why. It practically calls out to be explored.

We started our climb up the long wooden staircase that winds its way to the top. The kiddos counted steps, pointed out chipmunks darting through the brush, and laughed every time we stopped for a quick breather. I’ll admit — it’s quite the leg workout! But every step was worth it once we reached the top. The view stretched for miles — rolling farmland, pockets of pine forest, and a sky so wide it felt endless. The kids leaned against the railing and shouted “Hello, Wisconsin!” just to hear their voices echo.

On the way back down, we stopped to look at the ancient petroglyphs and pictographs carved and painted into the rock by Native American ancestors over a thousand years ago. The kids were fascinated that these drawings had been there long before us — it sparked some good “what was life like back then?” conversations that made the teacher-mom in me happy.

After we cooled off, we took the scenic route to our next destination, winding through the backroads of Adams County. Country music playing, passing farm fields that seemed to stretch forever. That slow drive — with tired kids and hearts full of adventure — felt like the most perfect part to a simple, beautiful day.

If you’re planning a visit, Roche-a-Cri State Park is a great family spot. The stair climb is a fun challenge, and the views make you feel like you’re on top of the world. Bring water, comfy shoes, and maybe a picnic if you’re smarter than I was this time!

And here’s a fun tip — the Adams Theater downtown offers free movies on Thursdays! It’s the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring. Grab some popcorn, cool off in the AC, and let the kids enjoy a family flick before heading home.

If you have extra time, check out Quincy Bluff and Wetlands or spend an afternoon by Castle Rock Lake — both are nearby and family-friendly.

Days like this remind me why I love exploring Wisconsin’s quiet corners with my crew. It’s not about fancy plans or big destinations — just fresh air, wide-open skies, and a few happy little faces by my side.

🌲 Tips for Visiting Roche-a-Cri State Park & Adams, Wisconsin

1. Bring water (lots of it!)
That staircase climb is no joke — especially for little legs. Pack extra bottles or a refillable jug in the car. There’s a refill station by the parking area too.

2. Wear comfy shoes
The steps can get steep, and there’s a lot of walking if you explore the trails. Sneakers or hiking shoes make a huge difference for both kids and adults.

3. Take breaks on the way up
The climb is about 300 feet up, so let the kids stop and rest at the platforms — they’ll love spotting birds and chipmunks along the way.

4. Don’t skip the petroglyphs
They’re easy to miss if you don’t know where to look! Stop at the base of the bluff to see the Native American carvings and paintings. It’s a cool way to mix history with your hike.

5. Pack snacks or a picnic next time
I didn’t this trip (lesson learned!), but there are several shaded picnic tables that would make a great lunch stop. Even a few granola bars help keep everyone happy after the climb.

6. Bring a camera or phone with extra battery
The view from the top is incredible — farmland, forests, and endless sky. It’s a must-snap moment for family photos.

7. Stop by Adams Theater for free movie Thursdays
If you’re visiting on a Thursday, end your adventure with a free family movie downtown. It’s a small-town treat and a nice way to rest those tired hiking legs.

8. Explore nearby spots
After Roche-a-Cri, check out Quincy Bluff and Wetlands for another scenic walk or head to Castle Rock Lake for swimming or skipping rocks.

9. Keep an eye out for wildlife
We saw chipmunks, butterflies, and a few woodpeckers. Early morning or evening hikes usually have more animal sightings.

10. Slow down and enjoy the drive
The country roads leading in and out of Adams are half the fun — rolling farmland, red barns, and those endless Wisconsin skies make it feel like a step back in time.