Gays Mills
Wisconsin's Apple Capital, deep in the Kickapoo Valley
Gays Mills sits in a valley along the Kickapoo River, surrounded by ridges that have been covered in orchards since 1905. Looking up from the village toward the hillsides, rows of apple trees on steep terrain, framed by forested bluffs, is one of those Crawford County views that tends to stop people.
The community itself is small and close-knit, shaped by a history of resilience and a genuine pride in what it produces. After significant flooding in the mid-2000s, Gays Mills rebuilt with intention — new housing developments, a renovated Mercantile Center on higher ground, and a renewed civic energy through the Connect Communities program. BAPI, a global sensor manufacturer with 140 employees, has called Gays Mills home since 2001.
Quick Facts
Population
500
Kickapoo River Valley in Northern Crawford County
1000+ Orchard Acres
Largest orchard concentration in the tri-state area
WEDC Connect Community
Active economic development underway
What You'll Find Here
BAPI (Building Automation Products) - global sensor manufacturer, ~140 employees, 52,000 sq ft facility
Six apple orchards featuring U-Pick, bakeries, farmers markets, shopping and more
Kickapoo Exchange Natural Foods Co-op (KEX) - organic and local foods cooperative since 1975
Mercantile Center - small business retail and incubator space
Apple Valley and North Mills housing developments — lots available for new construction
Apple Festival (last full weekend September) and Spring Folk Festival (Mother's Day weekend)
Crawford County Fairgrounds - county fair held here each summer
Kickapoo River paddling, fishing, and trout streams
Wauzeka Bottoms State Natural Area — mature floodplain forest, exceptional birding
St. Francis Hermitage — French nuns and monks operate an organic farm, French restaurant, bakery, and gift shop in the hills above town
Everyday retail, dining, and services in the village
North Crawford School District
DDI currently leads the Connect Communities program in Prairie du Chien and serves as fiscal sponsor for the Gays Mills Connect Communities effort — supporting both communities in pursuing commercial revitalization through WEDC resources, training, and technical assistance.
DDI is committed to expanding Connect Communities support to additional Crawford County communities as local interest and capacity develop.
