DNR Parks And Recreation News

What’s Happening In Wisconsin's State Parks, Forests, Trails And Recreation Areas

Celebrate the history of the Wisconsin State Park System at the Wisconsin State Fair!

A Journey Through Time At The Wisconsin State Fair

Visit DNR staff at the Wisconsin State Fair and celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Wisconsin State Park System with us. We have compiled an extensive display of historic images, interesting state park system history tidbits and universal recreation resources for all visitors.

From July 31 through Aug. 10, DNR staff and history displays can be found in the north building at Exploratory Park, on the south side of Main Street across from The Dairy Building. 

125th Anniversary Merchandise At State Fair

Gear up for adventure at State Fair by visiting DNR's merchandise booth. A variety of Wisconsin State Park System merchandise will be on sale throughout the duration of the fair, including a State Fair exclusive color 125th Anniversary T-shirt. Below are the items available starting July 31, 2025. Supply is limited, so get them while you can.

• 125th Sticker – $1
• Button Magnet – $3
• Bandana – $7
• Stainless Cup – $10
• Poster – $10
• Adventure Journal – $15
• Tote Bag – $20
• Adult T-Shirt – $25
• Youth T-Shirt – $15

Merchandise will be sold from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day; sales are credit card only. Find more information about the anniversary and our 125th merchandise on our website.

Admission Pass And Trail Pass Sales

This year, 12-month vehicle admission passes and annual state trail passes will be available for sale at State Fair. 

A 12-month vehicle admission pass to Wisconsin's state parks and forests is valid for 12 months from the time of purchase, and is a great value for visitors who plan to visit state park properties throughout the year. The pass is marked at the time of purchase to indicate the month/year in which it expires. The pass will remain valid until the final day of the month/year in which it is marked.

A state trail pass is required for all people age 16 or older who bike, cross-country ski, horseback ride or inline skate on certain state trails. The 2025 annual state trail passes are valid through Dec. 31, 2025.

Wisconsin State Parks Hit The Big Leagues 

Can't get enough of our state parks? Join us at the Milwaukee Brewers game on Saturday, Aug. 9, to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the state park system and Smokey Bear's 81st birthday.

Join DNR staff at the Centerfield Plaza before the game for some baseball-themed giveaways.

Upcoming Events

There are so many events planned throughout the Wisconsin State Parks System this year that it's impossible for us to list them all here!

Find events that fit your interests and schedule at a park near you on our DNR Events calendar, updated daily.

Here is one event we're especially excited about:

50th Anniversary Of Governor Nelson State Park Celebration
Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, Governor Nelson State Park
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Celebrate this milestone with the community. Food from local food trucks will be available during the event, and Wisconsin State Park System merchandise will also be available for purchase.

Schedule of events: 

• 10:30 a.m. – noon. Walk and talk about park and camp history
• 12:15 – 12:30 p.m. Welcome and remarks from staff
• 1 – 2 p.m. Prairie Walk
• All day. Scavenger hunt at 12 locations around the park

Meet at the tents near the Beach Shelter.

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