Yes, this COVID-19 pandemic is driving everyone crazy, and the closing of 40 state parks at the beginning of April in our part of Wisconsin didn't help. But, good news is on the horizon! Governor Evers and the Wisconsin DNR announced today that 34 of the 40 state parks and forests that were closed will re-open this coming Friday, May 1st. With restrictions, of course.
Social distancing and other measures will be required, as will the annual stickers per usual. Changes in hours and more will also be imposed. Here are details:
ADMISSION REQUIRED STARTING MAY 1st
An annual park sticker and/or trail pass will be required to visit state parks and trails.
Annual stickers will be available for purchase with credit card by phone 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. seven days a week by calling toll free: 1-888-305-0398. We thank you in advance for your patience as we may be experiencing heavy call volumes.
Annual passes are NOT available for purchase at individual properties. Visitors must have an annual admission sticker adhered to their vehicle or proof of purchase for entry.
Once proof of purchase is shown, visitors must place proof of purchase on the dash of the windshield while parked within the boundary of the property.
The 2020 annual vehicle admission sticker is valid through Dec. 31, 2020.
HOURS OF OPERATION
State parks and forests will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, a change from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Properties will be closed to the public every Wednesday for maintenance and upkeep.
Northern Forests, Flowages, Lower Wisconsin Riverway, and Wild Rivers will be open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week. Specific properties listed below.
- Black River State Forest
- Brule River State Forest
- Chippewa Flowage
- Flambeau River State Forest
- Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest
- Governor Knowles State Forest
- Lower Wisconsin State Riverway
- Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest
- Pike Wild River
- Pine-Popple Wild River
- Turtle Flambeau Flowage
- Willow Flowage
Hunting and fishing will be allowed on all open properties in accordance with legal season structure and hours. Access to some areas may be limited to walk-in or water access only.
The following properties will remain closed for the health and safety of the public, staff, and property integrity:
- Gibraltar Rock state natural area
- Pewit’s Nest state natural area
- Parfrey’s Glen state natural area
- Dells of The Wisconsin River state natural area
Let's some nice weather and enjoy the parks again!
Copper Falls inside Copper Falls State Park, off Highway 169 north of Mellen, Wisconsin.