Wisconsin state campgrounds have opened and are taking reservations

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reopened state campgrounds on Wednesday, June 10 with special conditions to ensure the safety of staff and visitors.

Some of the changes that campers and park visitors will experience include automatic touchless check-in, new signs to educate visitors on recreating responsibly and park offices will remain closed to the public.

Reservations

Camping reservations will be accepted by phone (1-888-947-2757) and online only to eliminate face-to-face interaction with DNR staff. Same-day camping reservations are also now available by phone (1-888-947-2757) and the online reservation system.

Check-in is no longer necessary at the office or visitor station when coming to a property. Proceed directly to your campsite and begin setup. Property staff will visit sites to monitor occupancy.

Camping reservations for June 8 or 9 were canceled and will be refunded. If reservations for a longer stay begin on June 8/9 and extend beyond June 10, the arrival will automatically be adjusted to June 10.

Group camping, shelters and amphitheaters will be closed through June 30. All reservation holders for these sites will be contacted and provided a full refund.

Restrooms, buildings, firewood

Most restrooms at state properties are now open. Some remote water fountains may be closed in the day use area of the park or have the bubbler turned off and have access to the water spigot only.

All other facilities will remain closed, including towers, shelters, playgrounds, nature centers, headquarters, contact stations, and concessions. Equipment rentals are unavailable at this time.

Firewood is not available at state parks at this time and should be purchased before campers arrive. Campers are reminded that certified firewood that has been properly heat-treated or aged to kill any infesting pests or diseases to protect Wisconsin’s trees must be purchased within 10 miles of their camping location.

Admission

Annual park stickers and trail passes are required to visit state parks and trails. Stickers are available for purchase online or with credit card by phone 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week by calling toll free: 1-888-305-0398.

Annual trail and daily 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.

Due to high demand, many properties will likely reach their pre-determined capacity limits. When this happens, properties will close until existing visitors leave, and capacity is reduced.

Visitors are encouraged to explore other DNR recreation areas or visit during non-peak hours before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. Popular attractions within state parks, including beaches, where social distancing cannot be achieved may close as needed.