Governor Nelson State Park
5140 County Highway M
Waunakee, WI 53597
Phone: 608.831.3005
Governor Nelson State Park is a 422 acre day use park offering a sand beach, boat launch, fish cleaning facility, picnic areas, prairie restorations and Native American effigy mounds. Enjoy over 8 miles of hiking trails with expansive views of Lake Mendota and the State Capitol.
In 1976, the process of acquiring land began and finally in November 1987, Governor Nelson State Park opened.
In June 1988, former Wisconsin Governor and Senator, Gaylord Nelson held a dedication ceremony. Among his many accomplishments, Gaylord Nelson created Earth Day in 1970. Since 1970, April 22 has been set aside for all people to think about and appreciate our natural world together.
Governor Nelson State Park pays tribute to and embodies the ideals held by our former governor. When the park opened for the enjoyment of all, it was decided to name the park after Governor Nelson who is a role model standing for Wisconsin and American environmental protection, appreciation, and preservation of natural spaces. The Friends of Governor Nelson State Park endeavor to honor and continue these guiding principles so that all may enjoy this beautiful natural treasure!
The Park is open year round from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.