Outdoor archery range with targets set in front of a wooded backdrop and hanging target markers

Visit the Wisconsin Concrete Park

Just south of Phillips, WI, the Wisconsin Concrete Park offers visitors a chance to experience one of the Northwoods’ most unusual outdoor art attractions. The park was created by self-taught artist and retired lumberjack Fred Smith. It combines local stories, history, folklore, and larger-than-life sculptures, making a visit to this destination one of the best things to do in Wisconsin.

Two horned animal sculptures with red accents facing each other in a grassy park

The Artist - Fred Smith

Born in 1886 to German immigrant parents, Fred Smith grew up near Ogema, Wisconsin and began working in lumber camps as a teenager. Though he had no formal education and remained illiterate throughout his life, he still provided a comfortable living for himself, his wife Alta, and their five children. In addition to his work in the lumber industry, he later became a homesteader, developing 120 acres south of Phillips where he lived with his family. 


After leaving the lumber camps in the late 1940s, Smith began exploring his creative talents. In 1948, at the age of 62, he began creating sculptures on his property using concrete, glass, stones, mirrors, and other materials. His work was inspired by the people, stories, legends, animals, and historical figures he knew or encountered throughout his life. Smith also wrote and performed his own music, further demonstrating his artistic abilities. 


Fred Smith died in February of 1975. His collection of homemade sculptures eventually became known as the Wisconsin Concrete Park. Rather than creating art for commercial success, he wanted to keep his park available to everyone. Today, 237 sculptures remain as a preserved example of 20th-century roadside art and Smith’s enduring legacy.

Stone sculptures of a seated person milking a cow in a grassy park with trees

The Art

The concrete park's sculptures range from historical figures and legendary characters to wildlife and scenes from Northwoods life. While there are more than 200 pieces to discover, these are among the most recognizable and unusual:



  • Paul Bunyan and His Lumberjacks: This larger-than-life group reflects the Northwoods logging culture that shaped Smith’s own working life.
  • Kit Carson: Smith’s sculpture of the famous frontiersman is one of the historical figures represented throughout the park.
  • Sacajawea: This sculpture is part of Smith’s collection of figures connected to American history and exploration.
  • Lincoln-Todd Monument: This distinctive piece depicts Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln, adding a historical dimension to the outdoor collection.
  • Budweiser Clydesdale Team: A team of concrete horses is one of the park’s most memorable displays that showcases Smith’s talent for creating large-scale animals.
  • Ben Hur: Inspired by the famous chariot-racing story, this sculpture adds another unexpected subject to Smith’s wide-ranging panorama.

The Experience

A visit to the Wisconsin Concrete Park is more than a quick look at unusual sculptures. Guests can walk the grounds, follow the nature trail, and photograph the artwork. They can also explore the historic Smith Family House, which now houses the Countryside Artists Gallery & Gift Shop. This seasonal gallery offers an opportunity to learn more about local artists and browse gifts and artwork. 


Visitors can check the park’s calendar for educational programs, workshops, and other community events. Those interested in giving back can volunteer with the Friends of Fred Smith on preservation, landscaping, events, and other projects. 


The park is open daily with free admission, although donations are appreciated.

The Rock Garden Tavern

The historic Rock Garden Tavern adds another stop to the experience, giving visitors a place to relax near the park and enjoy refreshments. The Tavern menu features:



  • Pizza: Pizza is available for visitors looking for a casual meal during their stop at the park.
  • Beer and Beverages: Bottled and tap Rhinelander beer, Fred Smith’s favorite, is among the beer options available.Guests can choose from hard sodas and carbonated soft drinks.
  • Wine and Mixed Drinks: The beverage selection also includes mixed drinks and a large selection of wines.
People in camouflage standing beside a stone elephant sculpture in a grassy park

Stay at Comfort Cove Resort

After exploring the Wisconsin Concrete Park, return to Comfort Cove Resort for a relaxing Northwoods stay on Solberg Lake. The resort offers RV sites as well as fully equipped cabins with kitchens, Wi-Fi, fire pits, BBQ grills, and lake access. 



Guests can also enjoy a private boat launch, swimming beach, playground, game room, fish cleaning station, and boat rentals, making it easy to combine a day of sightseeing with resort fun.


Book your stay today and come see all that Phillips, WI has to offer!