[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Wisconsin\u2019s state parks have been making our state a better place to live for people and wildlife for 125 years! Learn more about the anniversary festivities in this guest blog by Missy VanLanduyt from the Wisconsin DNR.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Copper-Falls-Copper-Falls-SP-Winter-courtesy-of-WDNR.jpg” alt=”A snow covered cliffside above a river at one of Wisconsin\u2019s state parks” title_text=”Copper Falls Copper Falls SP Winter Courtesy Of WDNR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n A snow covered cliffside above a river at Copper Falls State Park. Photo courtesy of Wisconsin DNR<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Wisconsin state parks are celebrating 125 years in 2025! The quasquicentennial recognizes the establishment of Interstate State Park on the St. Croix River as Wisconsin\u2019s first state park \u2014 way back in 1900.<\/p>\n The state\u2019s parks, forests, trails and recreation areas are managed to protect and provide access to some of Wisconsin\u2019s most exceptional natural features. Since that first state park was established, the Wisconsin State Park System has since grown to over 307,000 acres of public land.<\/p>\n The Wisconsin State Park System draws an average of 20 million visitors annually. Our most popular state park, Devil\u2019s Lake State Park, gets more than 2 million visitors each year alone. That\u2019s about the same as Glacier National Park! These properties support the health and wellness of the people of Wisconsin by providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, skill building and community engagement throughout the state. Wisconsin\u2019s state park properties welcome all visitors to enjoy the outdoors regardless of background, experience level or ability.<\/p>\n Plans are underway for plenty of celebrations in the coming year. Join the WI DNR<\/a> to mark this milestone in 2025 by visiting state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/First-Day-Hike-Buckhorn-SP-Winter-courtesy-of-WDNR.jpg” alt=”People walking over a snow covered bridge at one of Wisconsin\u2019s state parks” title_text=”First Day Hike Buckhorn SP Winter Courtesy Of WDNR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n People walking over a snow covered bridge at Buckhorn State Park. Photo courtesy of Wisconsin DNR<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Also, we have an important piece of news for state parks visitors. Starting with all current sales, state park vehicle admission stickers will now be effective for 12 months from the date of purchase<\/strong> rather than expiring at the end of the calendar year.<\/p>\n Admission stickers are required for vehicles entering most Wisconsin state parks, forests and recreation areas. Going forward, stickers will be marked to indicate the month they will expire, remaining valid until the final day of the 12th month following the month of issue.<\/p>\n For example, a sticker purchased March 1, 2025, will be valid through March 31, 2026. Stickers are not prorated, regardless of what day of the month they are purchased \u2014 July 31 purchases will be punched for July, not August, for instance.<\/p>\n Prices for annual stickers have not changed. The cost is $28 for vehicles with Wisconsin plates ($13 for residents age 65 and older), or $38 for out-of-state vehicles. Like before, annual stickers will be available at most parks via drive-up window or e-payment stations (kiosks), by calling a property during business hours, or online.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Lumberjack-Trail-Northern-Highland-American-Legion-State-Forest-Winter-courtesy-of-WDNR.jpg” alt=”A partially frozen river and a shoreline covered in snow at one of Wisconsin\u2019s state parks” title_text=”Lumberjack Trail Northern Highland American Legion State Forest Winter Courtesy Of WDNR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n A partially frozen river and a shoreline covered in snow on Lumberjack Trail in Northern Highland – American Legion State Forest. Photo courtesy of Wisconsin DNR<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Family-friendly events, fascinating Wisconsin history programming and adventures for all abilities will take place throughout the state in 2025 to mark the 125th anniversary. Follow the DNR on social media like Facebook<\/a> and Instagram<\/a> and keep an eye on the events calendar<\/a> for updated anniversary information.<\/p>\n Additionally, there will be lots of great coverage in the DNR magazine with park stories, historic photos and much more. We can\u2019t wait to celebrate!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_team_member name=”Guest Blogger” image_url=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/missy-dnr-courtesy-of-Missy-VanLanduyt.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n DNR recreation partnerships section supervisor<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n Missy leads the management of outdoor recreation partnerships for properties in the Wisconsin State Parks System (WSPS) including the management of cooperative state trails, trail program initiatives and guidance; statewide, regional and local partnerships; program friends groups and volunteers; capital development and partnership projects. Additionally Missy leads the general public relations, marketing, communications, outreach and events for the WSPS.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_team_member][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n NRF is proud to have been a part of numerous projects at Wisconsin\u2019s state parks over the years. So many in fact, that it was hard to choose which to highlight! Here\u2019s four that have been particularly transformative. This work has significantly improved habitat for wildlife and helped a wider variety of people enjoy our state\u2019s amazing parks.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n NRF partnered with the Wisconsin DNR on a statewide \u201cPollinators in the Parks\u201d initiative to increase pollinator habitat at state park properties via NRF\u2019s Wisconsin Pollinator Protection Fund.<\/a><\/p>\n The beautiful gardens and prairies that create habitat for pollinators enhance the beauty of our state parks. And from a conservation standpoint, they\u2019re absolutely vital – both for Wisconsin\u2019s unique biodiversity and for our agricultural crops and backyard gardens.<\/p>\n State parks that have been funded include Aztalan, Blue Mound, Brunet Island, Governor Dodge, Hartman Creek, High Cliff, Lake Wissota, Nelson Dewey, Pattison, Peninsula, Roche-A-Cri, Willow River, Wyalusing and Yellowstone Lake. Several State Natural Areas and state forests have also had one of these \u201cpollinator upgrades.\u201d<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/prairie-plants-by-Mike-Trieschmann.jpg” alt=”close up of yellow prairie plants in a field of one of Wisconsin\u2019s state parks” title_text=”Prairie Plants By Mike Trieschmann” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Thanks to a 2023 Wisconsin Pollinator Protection Fund grant, Friends of Copper Falls State Park created and enhanced three native pollinator garden plots. They also collected a variety of native dried plant seeds last fall to spread over each plot and designed pollinator signs. Photo by Mike Trieschmann<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n NRF and the Wisconsin DNR teamed up to protect water quality and wildlife habitat<\/a> at seven priority sites along the Great Lakes coastline. This included three state parks, two state forests, and two state natural areas. For example, Peninsula State Park in Door County had been experiencing significant flooding during major storms, especially in the campgrounds. Stormwater had been running through campsites and dumping straight into Lake Michigan. This deposited pollutants and sediment, and resulted in a decrease in water quality. NRF and WDNR improved drainage from the park\u2019s nature center building and campground with new culverts and other drainage features to reduce erosion and improve stormwater filtration.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Potawatomi-Park-by-Caitlin-Williamson.jpg” alt=”stormwater drainage at a camp site” title_text=”Potawatomi Park By Caitlin Williamson” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Thanks to a grant from the Fund for Lake Michigan, NRF and WDNR partnered on a project to address stormwater runoff and improve Lake Michigan water quality at Potawatomi State Park. Photo by Caitlin Williamson<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The Natural Resources Foundation is proud to support efforts to make our state\u2019s wonders more accessible to all. A recent NRF grant supported improvements to the accessible cabin and a new accessible fishing pier at Copper Falls State Park, via The David & Joyce Weizenicker Fund for State Parks.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Friends of Copper Falls State Park” portrait_url=”data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iNTAwIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjUwMCIgdmlld0JveD0iMCAwIDUwMCA1MDAiIHhtbG5zPSJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnczLm9yZy8yMDAwL3N2ZyI+CiAgICA8ZyBmaWxsPSJub25lIiBmaWxsLXJ1bGU9ImV2ZW5vZGQiPgogICAgICAgIDxwYXRoIGZpbGw9IiNFQkVCRUIiIGQ9Ik0wIDBoNTAwdjUwMEgweiIvPgogICAgICAgIDxyZWN0IGZpbGwtb3BhY2l0eT0iLjEiIGZpbGw9IiMwMDAiIHg9IjY4IiB5PSIzMDUiIHdpZHRoPSIzNjQiIGhlaWdodD0iNTY4IiByeD0iMTgyIi8+CiAgICAgICAgPGNpcmNsZSBmaWxsLW9wYWNpdHk9Ii4xIiBmaWxsPSIjMDAwIiBjeD0iMjQ5IiBjeT0iMTcyIiByPSIxMDAiLz4KICAgIDwvZz4KPC9zdmc+Cg==” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Thanks to the grant from the Weizenicker family, the newly constructed path allows persons of all abilities to access the dock. Without the grant, it would have been difficult or nearly impossible for persons using walkers, wheelchairs, or other mobility assistive devices to access the dock.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The fund<\/a> has also helped support a new accessible boardwalk for the popular Fern Trail at Newport State Park, an ADA-compliant walking trail at Hartman State Park, a concrete pad around the entire entrance kiosk at Council Grounds State Park, and more.<\/p>\n Why did the Weizenickers choose to support accessibility projects?<\/p>\n David worked at Wisconsin State Parks for over 35 years. During his career, he helped lead the charge for increasing accessibility at state parks. \u201cWhen we first got into accessibility we took our team out and we took loaned wheelchairs and had to use them for a half a day,\u201d David recalled. \u201cYou had to use it to do everything \u2013 lunch, bathroom breaks, everything in your wheelchair. That really made a big impression on everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n After retiring, David and his wife Joyce continued to enjoy visiting their favorite state parks. They noticed, however, that accessibility for seniors and for those in wheelchairs or using walking assistance was still lacking. They decided to do something to help, and supported accessibility projects through NRF ever since.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/action-track-chair-for-Point-Beach-State-Forest-courtesy-of-Quinn-Henseler.jpg” alt=”group of people standing around a person sitting in a track action wheelchair” title_text=”Action Track Chair For Point Beach State Forest Courtesy Of Quinn Henseler” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Thanks to a 2023 grant from the David & Joyce Weizenicker Fund for State Parks, Friends of Point Beach State Forest purchased an action track chair for Point Beach State Forest. This made it the first property in the state park system to fundraise and purchase a track chair. The Park also hosted an outdoor wheelchair program at Point Beach to promote inclusive access to public lands, provide demos for new adaptive equipment and share resources for all things accessible at Wisconsin’s state park properties. Photos Courtesy of Quinn Henseler<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\nThe impact of Wisconsin’s state parks<\/h3>\n
Sticker news<\/h3>\n
An anniversary to remember<\/h3>\n
<\/h4>\n
Missy VanLanduyt (she\/her)<\/h4>\n
NRF’s support for state parks<\/h3>\n
Pollinators in the parks<\/h3>\n
Coastal Lake Michigan<\/h3>\n
Accessibility in state parks<\/h3>\n
State park pass program<\/h3>\n