Governor Dodge State Park Conditions

Conditions as of Tuesday, January 17, 2012:

• Camping
• Fishing
• Hunting
• Picnicking
• Trails
• Visitor Center

Trails

Due to changing weather conditions, please call the park office at (608) 935-2315 for a current update on trail conditions. Trail Map [PDF].

Cross-country Ski Trails: There are more than 12 miles of ski trails in the park. Grooming and tracking is done as weather conditions and staffing allow. If you are looking for a nice “back-country” ski experience and are not particular about perfect conditions, this is a great place to come.

Cross-country ski trails are designated for the use of skiers only. Hikers, pets, and snowshoers are not allowed on cross-country ski trails when the trails are snow-covered.

Hiking/Snowshoe Trails: Hiking is limited to trails not designated for cross-country skiing; the Pine Cliff Trail and the Uplands Trail. These trails are not maintained for winter use and can be slippery, wet, icy, and hazardous during winter. Snowshoers can venture almost anywhere except on ski trails. Try the Uplands Trail or venture off trail in the Group Camp area.

Horse/Mountain Bike Trails are closed for the season and will reopen May 1, 2012, conditions permitting. A state trail pass is required for anyone ages 16 and older to use the mountain bike or bridle trails.

Camping

Twin Valley sites 255- 293 are open for winter camping, although only limited sites are plowed. All other camping areas are closed for the season. All shower/flush toilet facilities and water systems, including the dump and fill station, are shut down for the season. Vault toilets are available in the campground and water for jug filling is available from the faucet outside the park office.

All campers, including those with reservations, must register/check in at the park office before setting up camp. Remember, no one may set up between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Campers arriving after the office has closed may set up on designated sites and must come to the office by 9 a.m. the next morning to register and pay camping and vehicle admission fees.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends, holidays, and for electrical sites. Reservations are available for dates May through October and can be made up to 11 months in advance of your arrival date. Call the toll free reservation line, (888) 947-2757, or use the Web.

Campground map [PDF 163KB]
Photos of campsites [exit DNR] (Friends of Governor Dodge Web site)

Firewood Notice: Due to the potential of carrying harmful tree pests and diseases, firewood from out of state or from more than 25 miles away is not allowed on Wisconsin State Park or Forest properties. Also, firewood that has been in the Wisconsin emerald ash borer quarantined area [PDF 102KB] is not allowed on properties outside of the quarantined area. Please buy firewood at or near the park or forest where you are going. Call the DNR toll-free Firewood Hotline, (877) 303-WOOD ((877) 303-9663) for information before packing for a trip.

Fishing

The game fish season is open through March 4, 2012. Musky season is closed. Special size and bag limits exist on both Twin Valley and Cox Hollow lakes. Check the current fishing regulations or ask at the park office, and note lake-specific regulations on signs at boat landings. Remember, both lakes are restricted to electric motors only.

Ice fishing is very popular at Governor Dodge. Remember to take all possible safety precautions when ice fishing. Keep in mind the park does not monitor ice conditions. Ice conditions vary daily and from spot to spot.

Hunting

All hunting in the park has ended for the season. Hunters with special permits may hunt turkey, deer, and small game in designated areas of the park in season. Special regulations apply for each hunt. For more information, please see Hunting in Governor Dodge State Park, or contact the park office.

Picnic Areas and Concessions

Picnic shelters at Enee Point, Twin Valley Picnic Area, Twin Valley Beach and Cox Hollow Beach West may be reserved up to 11 months in advance. Contact the park office for specific information and availability.

The Kiwanis Concession stand is closed for the season. All picnic and beach area water systems are shut down for the season. A portable rest room is available at the Cox Hollow Beach trail head.

Visitor Center

The park office is open seven days a week for park and area information, for purchasing vehicle admission stickers, and for registering to camp.

More Information

Friends of Governor Dodge Web site [exit DNR]
Road Conditions [exit DNR]
Weather [exit DNR]

For more information, ask Governor Dodge State Park, (608) 935-2315.

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