Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park

Water cascading between large, smooth rocks, creating natural waterslides, has made the park a popular recreation destination, and its landscape has piqued the curiosity of all who visit. One and a half billion years ago, hot volcanic ash and gases spewed into the air, then cooled, forming igneous rock. Later, shallow seas covered the rock, depositing sedimentary rock. The land rose. The sea fell. The weather began tearing down the land, exposing the volcanic rock beneath it. Waters of the Black River became confined, or "shut-in," to a narrow channel. A one-fourth mile walkway takes visitors to an observation deck overlooking the shut-ins. Camping, hiking and swimming are popular pastimes, with rock climbing allowed seasonally by permit. Picnic tables, playground equipment and a reservable open picnic shelter make the park ideal for family gatherings. Basic and electric campsites are available, along with a park store. Pets are not allowed in the shut-ins.