DNR Parks And Recreation News
What’s Happening In Wisconsin's State Parks, Forests, Trails And Recreation Areas
 A snow-covered campsite at Copper Falls State Park / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR
This December is the last chance to purchase the 125th Anniversary edition of the 12-month vehicle admission pass!
Vehicle admission passes purchased this month will be valid through December 31, 2026. Have a valid vehicle admission pass already? Gift an admission pass to a friend or family member or keep one as an anniversary souvenir.
It's quick and easy to purchase online. We recommend sending the sticker to yourself if you plan to give as a gift.
In charge of purchasing the holiday gifts for staff at your workplace? Give them the gift of the outdoors as well!
To place bulk orders of less than 20 admission passes, stop by your local park or order from them via phone. To order 20 or more admission passes, email DNRFWPPRWIParksStore@wisconsin.gov. Find more detailed instructions under the Vehicle Admission Pass Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section of our admission webpage.
Wisconsin State Trail Passes
2026 annual state trail passes (valid through Dec. 31, 2026) are available now and are another great gift idea for this time of year, especially for those cross-country skiing.
State trail passes are available for purchase online and can be combined with 12-month admission passes in a single transaction. State trail passes can also be purchased at individual properties, at DNR service centers or from state trail pass vendors.
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 Released this year, the Adventure Journal includes recommendations for 125 Wisconsin State Park System properties.
Wisconsin State Park System Merchandise
Looking for something memorable to pair with your 12-month vehicle admission and trail passes? Check out our official Wisconsin State Parks System merchandise! These stocking stuffers will help commemorate the special memories you made in the outdoors this year.
Some especially great options are available in-person at Wisconsin State Park Systems properties:
- Adventure Journals
- 125th Anniversary stainless cups
- 125th Anniversary tees, sweatshirts, mugs and tote bags
- Individual park posters, coasters and magnets of Devil’s Lake, Peninsula, Interstate and Wyalusing state parks (available at the respective parks)
- Wisconsin State Park System bandanas
- $45 and $100 Holiday Gift Packages
All of the items besides the posters, magnets and coasters are in-person exclusives, which can be found at properties across the state. View our sale locations catalog to locate items near you.
If you’ve already been to one of these parks or don’t think you’ll be able to get to one before the holidays, don’t worry. You can still order park posters, coasters, magnets and more official DNR merchandise from our online store.
Some additional products geared toward the parkgoers in your life available online include:
- Smokey Bear tee
- Smokey Bear mug
- 2025 Wisconsin State Park System commemorative ornament
Proceeds from DNR merchandise sales directly support natural resources education and outreach initiatives across Wisconsin – so every purchase helps preserve the outdoor traditions you love.
Online purchases will be processed and shipped within 2-5 business days.
 Check out winter candlelight events and see Wisconsin's great recreation opportunities in a new light.
Candlelight Events
Attend or volunteer at a family friendly candlelight event! Candlelight events often feature warm refreshments and bonfires for those hiking, skiing or snowshoeing through the glowing pathways. Although the amount of gear needed varies, warm clothing with layers is recommended for all events along with a headlamp or flashlight. Some properties may have other equipment, such as snowshoes or an outdoor track chair, available to check out. Contact the property to see what is available and to make reservations.
Candlelight events are often hosted by Friends Groups, comprised mostly of dedicated volunteers. Consider lending a helping hand setting out the lanterns, tending a campfire, or serving hot cocoa. Other state park events in winter include children’s activities, guided nature walks, craft workshops and more. Contact a Friends Group to volunteer for this and other fun winter events.
Upcoming Events
There are so many events planned throughout the Wisconsin State Park 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 is one event we're especially excited about:
Holiday Nature Crafts & Ugly Sweater Party
Saturday, Dec. 6, Willow River State Park
10 – 11 a.m.
Come get festively crafty and make a holiday ornament, craft or ugly holiday sweater using a wide selection of crafting materials. Re-create one of our pieces on display or get inspired and make your very own creation. Sip on some hot chocolate and listen to holiday tunes while you work.
This is a great family activity to enjoy as we get ready for one of the happiest holidays of the year!
We’ll supply the crafting materials, but if you have an extra hot glue gun, please bring it along with you. If you want to decorate a sweater, please bring one with you! Feel free to bring any fun items you wish to glue onto your sweater or add to your craft!
Seats are limited! Register now.
This event costs $5/person, and vehicle admission into the park is required. All outdoor events are weather-dependent.
Meet at the Willow River State Park Nature Center.
Event Contact: naturecenter@willowkinnifriends.org
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