November 2025: A big THANK YOU to all who visited our two open houses at the Hogan House in October. More than 500 curious visitors joined us – ranging from those who had never heard of the structure to those who attended Camp Wakanda and actually slept in the Hogan 50 to 60 years ago! Great stories were told and some of you reunited with fellow campers. The conversations with you reaffirmed the decision by the Friends of Governor Nelson State Park to save this 75 year old structure, which is the last remaining building from Camp Wakanda, Olbrich and Indianola.
PHASE ONE renovations are nearly complete. They include a new fireplace insert, upgrading the electrical wiring, adding lighting and fan fixtures, cleaning the structure and replacing wood boards, installing skylights and replacing exterior fascia. Funds for Phase One consisted of $20,000 from individual donations which were matched by a $20,000 Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant. Thank you to all those who supported the Phase One renovations!
UPCOMING: PHASE TWO renovations will include new doors and windows, upgraded outdoor electrical, outdoor accessible patio/deck work and indoor furnishings. These improvements will make the Hogan House a welcoming meeting place, a warming house for winter park activities, an educational gathering space and more! We are currently working to raise $20,000 for Phase Two renovations along with our submission for another matching $20,000 Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant.
The volunteer Board of the Friends of GNSP would like you to consider making a tax-deductible donation to support the Phase Two renovation efforts. Your support is greatly appreciated and will ensure that this unique building will once again be a great resource for our community. For online donations, click the button below:
OR MAIL A CHECK TO:
(please include “Hogan House”
in the memo field)
Friends of Governor Nelson State Park
P.O. Box 206
Waunakee, WI 53597
