MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding the public that the state’s most popular parks will likely have vast crowds over the holiday weekend. The DNR is encouraging visitors to explore hidden gems and reduce crowds at parks with the most visitors.
Wisconsin State Park facilities receive over 20 million visitors annually and can be a popular recreation and weekend destination. During the busy summer season, visitors may experience long lines to enter the park, circumscribed parking availability, and crowded trails and picnic areas, especially at the state’s most popular facilities. Plan ahead and buy vehicle admission sticker AND make a camping reservation before time.
With 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails and several state recreation areas, wild rivers and flows to explore, there are plenty of places to find your adventure while avoiding the crowds. Consider recreating one of these properties or choose one you’ve never been to before:
- Soak up the sun along Lake Michigan’s six-mile stretch of sandy beach at Point Beach State Forest. The Rawley Point Lighthouse is a great photo opportunity that can be viewed and photographed from the beach. Stop by the park office and ask about the Forest Beach Buggy and the Outdoor Tracked Wheelchair.
- Kayaking on the Mississippi River along a marked kayaking trail Wyalusing State Park. This six-mile kayak trail begins at the boat ramp and continues through the waters of the Mississippi River to the main channel. Look for blue and white kayak trail signs to direct you. Kayak and canoe rentals are available at the park’s food court.
- Go back in time at Tower Hill State Park. The park’s namesake, an 1830s shotgun tower, is open to the public along with several other historic structures. See how lead shot was made in the mid-1800s, hike cliff trails and take in river views at this park outside Spring Green.
- Spend the day in Kettle Moraine North Unitthe largest unit of the Kettle Moraine National Forest. With three beaches, four campgrounds, and miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, the forest offers plenty of ways to relax. Picnic tables and grills are available at several recreation areas and trails.
This is the first busy weekend of the season, so please be patient with staff and other visitors. Stay on the trail and pay attention to trail conditions. If you are taking a break, move to the side of the trail so others can pass you. The trails are shared by users of all experience levels, so make yourself known and be courteous when passing others.
Use DNR Find a Park tool find a state park in wisconsin to explore or check some out hidden gems and exploration maps to learn more about less frequently visited DNR facilities.
