MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds the public to plan ahead this Memorial Day weekend to avoid long lines and enjoy time outside on Wisconsin’s public lands.
Wisconsin is home to 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 15,000 lakes and hundreds of miles of Lake Michigan and Mississippi River shoreline. The state’s public lands offer something for everyone to find their adventure.
With over 20 million visitors annually, Wisconsin State Park System properties can be a popular destination on holidays and weekends. During the summer season, you may experience long lines to enter the park, limited parking availability and crowded trails and picnic areas.
As one of the first busy periods of the season, please be patient with staff and fellow visitors over the Memorial Day weekend. Stay on the trail and be mindful of trail conditions. If taking a break, move to the side of the trail so others can pass by. Trails are shared by users of all experience levels, so make yourself known and be courteous when passing others.
Entering The Park
A Wisconsin state park and forest vehicle admission pass is required for all motor vehicles stopping in most state parks, forests and recreation areas. Purchase your vehicle admission pass online before arriving to help save time when entering Wisconsin State Park System properties.
Once a vehicle admission pass is purchased online, visitors can use the email confirmation as proof of purchase immediately and will receive a physical pass by mail. Visitors may print the vehicle admission email receipt and place it on the driver’s side dashboard so that it can be read through the windshield. Customers who do not have a printer can write the order and pass details on a piece of paper.
The DNR introduced the 12-month state park and forest vehicle admission pass in 2025. A 12-month admission pass purchased in May 2025 will be valid through May 31, 2026.
The DNR Reminds You To ‘Know Before You Go’
Most Wisconsin state parks, recreation areas, trails and forests are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Campers must make a reservation before setting up on any site.
Campsite check-in is 3 p.m. and check-out is 1 p.m.
Familiarize yourself with property layout and amenities such as restrooms, water sources, trail distance, surface type and concessionaires.
Ticks are out, and visitors should take precautions to prevent Lyme disease.
Wisconsin state parks, forests and other day-use areas do not have garbage or recycling bins. When you visit, you will need to take your garbage and recyclables home with you. We all play a vital role in taking care of our natural resources.
Find a Wisconsin state park, forest, trail or recreation area to explore with the DNR’s Find A Park tool. Be sure to also check out the DNR’s hidden gems and exploration maps to learn about lesser-visited properties and avoid crowds.
