DNR Parks And Recreation News
What’s Happening In Wisconsin's State Parks, Forests, Trails And Recreation Areas
 You're invited to participate in Universal Recreation Day at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit!
Join Us For A Day Of Universal Recreation
At Pike Lake Sept. 6
Join us for Universal Recreation Day from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit. This family friendly celebration will highlight universal infrastructure, adaptive equipment and inclusion in the Wisconsin State Park System. Individuals of all abilities are welcome to join in the fun and learn about universal recreation.
A wide range of activities will be available for visitors of all abilities, including outdoor recreation and sensory-focused experiences. Check out all-terrain wheelchairs, adaptive kayaks and more! Free activities and giveaways will occur throughout the event day, with optional paid activities including food for purchase at food trucks during the lunch period! Have you missed Smokey at other events? No worries, Smokey will be making an appearance!
There will also be 125th anniversary merchandise available at this event; make your purchases before the holidays while supplies last. Find more about our merchandise items and sales locations on our Anniversary webpage. Finally, learn more about universal recreation at Wisconsin State Park System Properties on our Open The Outdoors webpage.
 Staff Spotlight: Sue Johansen-Mayoleth, Devil's Lake
Sue Johansen-Mayoleth’s office is approximately 1.6 billion years old. She regularly kayaks on a lake formed in an abandoned valley of an ancient river. She also helps visitors to the Wisconsin State Park System’s most visited state park connect with the natural world.
As the Naturalist at Devil’s Lake State Park, Sue provides a wide range of programming, holds nature hikes, leads field trips and so much more. These opportunities are a great chance for Devil’s Lake’s more than two million annual visitors to learn more about the beloved state park.
Sue may tell you that she fell into her role as a Naturalist accidentally, but if you ask those who have worked with her they will tell you that the role comes second nature.
After graduating 2from college, Sue took on a part-time job as a naturalist in northern New Jersey. A series of part-time positions in naturalist roles followed. “I guess I never looked back,” she says.
Visitors to the nature center at Devil’s Lake build a relationship with the outdoors thanks to the wide array of hands-on educational and outdoor recreation programs Sue presents. Her motto, “taking people into nature is insufficient; caring adults must teach themselves how to think in nature,” demonstrates the way she approaches her job.
From a hike on Tumbled Rock Trail if you only have an hour, to a day spent hiking one (or both) of the bluff trails, Sue has no shortage of recommendations for ways to enjoy the park.
“Watch the sunset from the south shore or from on top of the east bluff. Enjoy the unique Wisconsin scenery and the ancient geology,” her list goes on. If you’re lucky, you may even snag a spot on one of her kayak tours of Devil’s Lake.
In addition to year-round naturalist programs, visitors can enjoy nearly 30 miles of hiking trails, lakeshore picnic areas, swimming beaches and paddling opportunities at Devil’s Lake State Park.
Wisconsin State Park System Interactive Story Map
Learn about the history of the Wisconsin State Park System from its inception to the present day with this interactive Story Map. Important milestones in the park system’s history are highlighted and an interactive map of Wisconsin displays the locations of properties, their establishment dates and links to property details to help you plan your next adventure.
Remember Rentals
Have you ever wanted to try a new activity but didn't have the equipment to get started? Many Wisconsin State Park System properties offer rental equipment. Here’s some important information for boat rentals.
- While equipment varies per park, most paddle craft rental locations offer kayaks, canoes or stand-up paddleboards.
- All rentals are first-come, first-served, and availability is seasonal and subject to change. Contact the property for pricing and more information.
- Always wear a life jacket while on the water.
- Check weather conditions before heading out.
- Stay hydrated and bring plenty of water.
- Use water-safe sunscreen and/or protective UV clothing.
- Let someone know your paddling plans and estimated return time.
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Learn about accessible/adaptive rental equipment.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful paddle or an adventurous trip, Wisconsin state parks have the perfect paddling experience waiting for you.
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:
Interstate Hiking Club
Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, Interstate Park
10 – 11 a.m.
Join volunteer Kathy Scharfenberg and St. Croix Falls Community Education for a once-a-month hike exploring the park. Hikes will vary depending on attendance and group needs.
This event is recommended for individuals aged 8 and up, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.
Meet at the Ice Age Center; no registration is needed.
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