Wisconsin’s 13th annual Free Fun Weekend is here! During this year’s Free Fun Weekend, happening June 7-8, 2025, state park admission fees, fishing licenses and trail passes are waived for all visitors.
With 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams and roughly 15,000 inland lakes, Wisconsin has something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, 2025 is the 125th anniversary of the Wisconsin State Park System. Some Free Fun Weekend events may feature state park system history, special outreach items or 125th anniversary merchandise available for purchase.
Free Fun Weekend is also an opportunity to try fishing for food or fun before purchasing an annual fishing license. All 2025-2026 fishing regulations apply, including bag and length limits and species restrictions.
Need gear or help finding a place to fish? No problem! The DNR has tackle loaner sites across the state, and if you need to locate a place to fish, the Wisconsin Fishing Finder can help you do just that.
Free fishing clinics are held during Free Fun Weekend at state and municipal properties to instruct beginning anglers. Visit the DNR Events calendar and Wisconsin State Parks webpage for a list of events and more information on state properties.
Before you head outdoors to enjoy Free Fun Weekend, there are a few helpful tips to keep in mind:
Safety
- Always wear a life jacket when fishing from a boat, kayak, canoe or paddleboard.
- Use boat lights after sunset.
- Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during an ATV ride or while operating a boat.
- Wear a helmet and protective clothing such as eye protection, gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt while riding an ATV.
- All children under the age of 18 must have a minimum Department of Transportation standard motorcycle or ATV helmet. Bicycle helmets are not legal.
- Keep your speed in mind as weather and terrain conditions vary or change.
Grab your family and friends and head outdoors for Free Fun Weekend! Consider taking the trail less traveled and visiting some lesser-known “hidden gem” state properties to discover something new.
If Free Fun Weekend has you hooked on enjoying Wisconsin’s outdoors, you can continue finding adventure by purchasing an annual fishing license, trail pass or 12-month vehicle admission sticker. With many license and admission options available, there’s a package to fit everyone’s recreation needs.
