Parks
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Nature
Wildlife abounds in this extensively forested park. Deer, grouse and turkey are the most abundant. The natural balance of wooded upland and wetland provides diverse natural habitats and the ability to support many recreational activities.
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Recreation
Governor Thompson State Park provides a variety of recreation opportunities. Click the links below to learn more about some of the popular activities at this park. Boating, canoeing and kayaking Boating, canoeing and kayaking at Governor Thompson…
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Winter Recreation
In winter, the Redtail Hawk, Oak Savanna and Woodland trails are groomed for cross-country skiing. A few trail sections have hills with some turns. Hiking, snowshoeing and pets are not allowed on cross-country ski trails when the trails are snow-…
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Fishing
Game fish and panfish are plentiful in Lake Mendota, allowing for year-round fishing. An accessible fishing pier next to the boat landing provides visitors with a great place to fish or just relax and enjoy the feel of the lake. A fish cleaning…
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Pets
Pets are permitted on the park hiking trails during summer. When trails are snow-covered, pets and hiking are allowed only on the Morningside multi-use trail. Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 8 feet and be under physical control at all…
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Water Recreation
SwimmingMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend the 500-foot sand beach will be marked with buoys for swimming. No lifeguards are on duty. No boats, sailboards or personal watercraft are allowed within the marked swim area and boaters must go…
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Picnic Areas and Shelters
Grills are provided in the picnic area. Fires are not allowed at the park. If you bring your own grill, please use the receptacles in the picnic areas for your hot coals. Reservable shelters Two shelters in the beach and picnic area are available…
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Hiking
In spring, summer and fall, hike 8.4 miles of trails through many diverse ecological communities, including oak woodland and savannah and mesic and wet prairies. Wildflowers are abundant along the trails, and various animals can often be seen…