Celebrate 125 Years of the Wisconsin State Park System
The DNR will celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Wisconsin State Park System in 2025. This milestone will be marked with family-friendly events, stories of the park system's history, commemorative merchandise and recreation opportunities for visitors of all abilities and experience levels.
125th Anniversary Merch Is Here!
Love state parks? Celebrate 125 years of conservation and outdoor recreation in Wisconsin with collectible Wisconsin State Park System merchandise!
Get them while they last! This special anniversary merchandise is only available for a limited time. Merchandise is available at certain state park system properties across the state. Product color and availability vary by property and are subject to change. Item images, pricing and a list of locations where you can buy these items in person can be found in our 125th Anniversary Merchandise Catalog.
Learn more about our 125th anniversary merchandise rollout in our newsroom.
History of the Wisconsin State Park System
Learn about the history of the Wisconsin State Park System from its inception to present day with this interactive Story Map. Important milestones in the park system’s history are highlighted and a clickable map of Wisconsin displays the locations of properties, their establishment dates and links to property details for planning your next adventure.
History and Timeline of the Wisconsin State Park System [exit DNR]
Special Events And Programs
Discover the wonders of nature with Wisconsin State Park System events and programming. Special 125th anniversary celebration events will be held throughout the year to showcase our state's exceptional natural resources. Upcoming events include:
Free Fun Weekend - June 7-8, 2025
Wisconsin is home to 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams, roughly 15,000 lakes and so much more. For the first weekend every June, you can explore it all with state park admission fees, fishing licenses and trail passes waived.
Invasive Species Awareness Weekend - June 21-22, 2025
Invasive Species Awareness Weekend (ISAW) features events throughout the state that help to educate the public on the magnitude and severity of issues caused by invasive species. These events will teach skills and techniques to help people be part of the solution. ISAW events may include guided hikes, educational components and invasive control fieldwork opportunities. Watch for events during this weekend on the DNR events calendar.
Interstate Park 125th Anniversary Celebration - Sept. 20, 2025
Join the Wisconsin State Park System to celebrate the 125th anniversary of our first state park. Enjoy a day of family-friendly activities, attend a special anniversary ceremony and explore the variety of recreation offerings at Interstate Park in St. Croix Falls.
More To Come!
We welcome you to visit our many Wisconsin State Park System properties, try new types of recreation and explore the wide range of services offered throughout the state.
Check back here often for more information on how you can join in the celebration!