DNR Celebrates Public Lands Day Saturday, Sept. 27

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to get outdoors and enjoy the state’s public lands Saturday, Sept. 27 in honor of National Public Lands Day.

Established in 1994, National Public Lands Day places emphasis on volunteerism to protect and enhance our public lands. Each year, many groups and individuals generously offer their time for an hour, a day, a weekend project or for a longer, seasonal position. These efforts help to protect, preserve and promote Wisconsin’s public lands for all to enjoy.

Wisconsin has a variety of outstanding natural resources, such as rushing trout streams, native prairies, vast green forests, pristine wild rivers and picturesque waterfalls. Each year, thousands of people hike, boat, ski, camp, hunt, fish and study nature. Public lands are places where you can get outside, recreate and enjoy all the natural beauty Wisconsin has to offer.

The state’s parks, forests, trails, recreation areas, natural areas, wildlife and fisheries areas are managed to conserve and protect some of Wisconsin’s most exceptional natural resources. These properties support the health and wellness of the people of Wisconsin by providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, skill building and community engagement throughout the state.    

Get Involved

There are many ways to get involved with Public Lands Day:

• Visit a Wisconsin state park, forest, trail or recreation area
• Find a volunteer opportunity that fits your schedule
• Attend a DNR event
• Try out universal recreation equipment and amenities
• Learn about the natural world at a nature center, field trip or explorer program
• Remember to carry in, carry out and reduce your waste
• Support your health and wellness with the Wisconsin State Park System’s OutWiGo initiative

When visiting Wisconsin public lands, always read the signs at parking lots, trailheads and boat access sites. Familiarize yourself with state and local laws and ordinances that might affect use of public lands. Hunters and anglers must follow hunting and fishing regulations.

For more information on Wisconsin public lands and ways to connect with nature, visit the DNR's website.