Parks increase capacity as outdoor activity picks up
With 49 state parks, more than 500 boat launches, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, over 5,000 campsites and much more – a springtime adventure awaits. As the state ushers in a new season, the DNR has several operations updates on parks and other DNR-managed lands.
Starting April 30, the following changes will be implemented: • Observation towers and playgrounds will be open
• Volunteer group sizes will be increased to 50 people
• Capacity for open-air shelters, amphitheaters and outdoor group campgrounds will be increased to 100 people
• Non-department led special event capacity will increase from 50 to 100. Special event permit applicants may work with property staff to phase larger events with capacities over 100
• Stand-alone concession facilities will open to the public at 50 percent capacity including staff
• In addition to the operations updates, amenities continue to be available to state park visitors, such as family camping (100 percent reservable with auto check-in); outdoor group camping, maximum capacity of 100 people (100 percent reservable with auto check-in); bathroom and dump station facilities; accessible cabins; drive-up window service; and concessions, including firewood sales.
Indoor group campgrounds and indoor shelters, including the Flambeau River State Forest yurt, will remain closed through June 1. Wisconsin state park and property visitor capacity closures will remain in place to help manage overcrowding and promote social distancing.
Rain, coupled with an increase in use, can sometimes be damaging to public spaces and natural resources. While DNR staff try to provide signage and condition updates whenever possible, be sure to stay on trails and seek dry trail alternatives if you find muddy conditions.
Visitors are encouraged to practice social distancing and to wear a face covering, when a distance of 6 feet or greater cannot be achieved.
State park visitors can purchase annual admission passes online, over the phone, by calling local properties directly, or in-person at self-registration stations at individual properties.
