The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites all Wisconsin libraries to join the 2025 “Check Out Wisconsin State Parks At Your Library” program.
Through this partnership, the DNR, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, and more than 150 libraries statewide offer library cardholders free daily passes to state parks, forests, and recreation areas. Passes for the 2025 season will be available starting Nov. 13, 2024.
Libraries interested in joining, along with community partners looking to support their local libraries, can visit the program’s webpage for details.
Now in its fourth year, “Check Out Wisconsin State Parks At Your Library” has expanded to include public libraries, university libraries, technical college libraries, and more. Launched in fall 2022 with a pilot group of 20 libraries, the program grew in 2024 to include 160 libraries, providing daily admission stickers for state parks and forests at no cost.
In 2024, specialized libraries like those at UW-Madison and UW-Superior also joined, bringing park access to even more new visitors across the state.
DNR staff look forward to welcoming participants to celebrate the Wisconsin State Park System’s 125th Anniversary in 2025. This milestone year offers visitors chances to explore park history, learn about natural resources, and enjoy special outdoor recreation events for all abilities.
“There are big things happening in our state park system next year,” said Missy VanLanduyt, DNR recreation partnerships section supervisor. “We’re thrilled to celebrate this historic occasion with our visitors. What better time to visit a state park for the first time than during our 125th anniversary?”
Library cardholders can also receive an informational kit with park system materials, maps, stickers, accessibility info, and more.
Before visiting, check the “visiting a state park” webpage to help plan your trip.
