DNR Parks And Recreation News
What’s Happening In Wisconsin's State Parks, Forests, Trails And Recreation Areas
 See fall color from your campsite! / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR
Back-To-School Camping
Teachers, parents and students: Pencil in a fall camping trip! Visit the Wisconsin State Parks Reservation System to book a site. We offer camping throughout the state with a variety of camping types, including backpack sites, equestrian sites, accessible cabins and everything in between. Track regional fall colors by viewing Travel Wisconsin's Fall Color Report.
With cooler temperatures, new colors and fewer mosquitoes, there are plenty of reasons to get outside. Consider checking out events near the campground on our Events Calendar. There is something for everyone!
Purchase your Vehicle Admission Pass ahead of time to skip the lines when you arrive at the campground! 12-month Admission Passes are valid 12 months from the month of purchase, giving you the most value for your money.
Friends Of Havenwoods 50th Anniversary
Mark your calendars for the Friends of Havenwoods 50th anniversary celebration on Saturday, Oct. 18, starting at 4 p.m. See a presentation on the property's history, visit with friends and enjoy snacks and a piece of anniversary cake.
The Friends of Havenwoods is looking forward to seeing everyone and celebrating 50 great years of supporting Havenwoods State Forest!
 The new Tyler Forks bridge, locasted east of Copper Falls State Park and northeast of Mellen, Wisconsin. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR
Tyler Forks Bridge Now Complete
The Tyler Forks bridge along the North Country Trail has been completed. The North Country Trail Association is hosting a grand opening celebration on Sept. 27, 2025.
Join the Chequamegon and Heritage Chapters of the North Country Trail Association, the Friends of Copper Falls State Park and the Wisconsin DNR to celebrate multiple milestones: the 125th anniversary of the Wisconsin State Park System, the 25th anniversary of the designation of the North Country Trail as a State Trail, the 45th anniversary of Congress’ designation of the North Country Trail as a National Scenic Trail, completion of the Mellen Hike & Bike Trail and completion of the North Country Trail Tyler Forks bridge east of the park.
A grand opening ceremony begins at 10 a.m. at the Friends Shelter at Copper Falls State Park. A potluck at 11 a.m. At 1 p.m., there will be group hikes to the new Tyler Forks bridge and other trails within the park.
Milwaukee Brewers Nights – Last Chance To Buy!
Please join us at American Family Field on Friday, Sept. 12, 2025, in Milwaukee as we celebrate Wisconsin’s incredible parks, nature centers and outdoor spaces. Enjoy discounted ticket pricing and special in-game recognition for the parks with this unique opportunity to give back. A portion of each ticket sold supports Wisconsin state parks.
Tickets are limited and are on sale until the end of today, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025! Tickets can be purchased by online.
The Wisconsin State Park System sees over 20 million visitors per year; this donation will be used to support customer-forward items, including replacement of picnic tables, fire rings, interpretive signs and grills.
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.
Here are two events we're especially excited about:
Universal Recreation Day
Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, Kettle Moraine State Forest – Pike Lake Unit
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Join the Wisconsin DNR for a celebration highlighting universally accessible outdoor recreation in Wisconsin State Park System properties!
A wide range of activities will be available for visitors of all abilities, including outdoor recreation and sensory-focused experiences. Adaptive equipment, including outdoor wheelchairs and adaptive kayaks, will be available for visitors and demonstrations. Some activities may have an additional cost.
Food will be available for purchase at food trucks during the lunch period.
Come spend the day with us! Vehicle admission is waived for the day!
- The main area for the event will be at the amphitheater, which has a crushed stone surface and is located near the parking lot on an accessible route of travel.
- Portions of the event around the amphitheater will be in maintained, grassy areas.
- A bathroom with accessible flush toilets and running water is available in the main area of the event.
- Hiking activities to be hosted on universal boardwalk trail.
- Fishing activities will take place at the accessible fishing pier at a different location on the property from main event.
Parking: The parking lot is shared with the public and parking availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Interstate Park 125th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, Interstate Park
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Join us for a birthday bash as we celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Wisconsin State Park System’s oldest state park, Interstate Park!
Activities will include nature journaling, rock climbing, guided hiking, history presentations and more! Cake will be served during a special anniversary ceremony.
This is a family-friendly event and all are welcome to attend.
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