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    History

    The first people Shortly after the glaciers retreated to their icy, Canadian home, humans moved into the area that is now Governor Dodge State Park. Just as the park’s scenic hills and valleys provide you refuge from over-crowded cities, they once…

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    Nature

    Wildlife Governor Dodge State Park abounds with wildlife from the tiniest shrews up to the big white-tailed deer. Deer, wild turkeys, ruffed grouse, red and grey fox, beaver, woodchucks and muskrats are common park inhabitants. More than 150…

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    Hunting

    Hunting and trapping are allowed in the open areas of the park during the Wisconsin state parks hunting and trapping time frame. Trapping is not permitted in closed areas as noted on the park hunting map or within 100 yards of any designated use…

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    Fishing

    The park’s two man-made lakes offer excellent fishing. Species include bass, walleye, muskie and panfish. Fishing licenses are required and may be purchased at local bait shops. Consult the current fishing regulations for special size and bag…

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    Water Recreation

    Swimming Swimming beaches are located on both lakes. Bathhouses are found near both beaches. The beaches are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. No lifeguards are on duty. Boating, canoeing and kayaking There are launching ramps on both Cox Hollow and…

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    Winter Recreation

    Ice fishing Two lakes in the park offer ice fishing opportunities throughout the winter. A bait shop is conveniently located nearby. The park does not monitor ice conditions or make recommendations as to the safety of the ice. Sledding Sledding…

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    Concessions and Rentals

    The Dodgeville Kiwanis Club operates a concession stand at the Cox Hollow beach area. The stand offers boat and canoe rentals, soda, coffee, ice cream, pizza, ice, charcoal, T-shirts and miscellaneous snack items. The concession is open daily…

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    Picnic Areas and Shelters

    There are eight designated picnic areas. Picnic shelters are available at Enee Point, the amphitheater, Twin Valley picnic area and Cox Hollow and Twin Valley beaches. Contact the park office for shelter reservation information. There are…

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    Horseback Riding

    The park has 22 miles of bridle trails providing riders an unequaled view of Governor Dodge's rich and varied landscape. Bring your own horse, as the park does not provide rentals. Day-use parking is available, as well as an equestrian campground…

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    Camping

    Seasonal Water Systems: At Governor Dodge State Park, showers and drinking water are available from Memorial Day weekend to Oct. 1 depending on the weather. Potable water can be obtained from the park office to fill jugs between Oct. 1, 2023 and…

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