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Nature|Parks & Gardens

The Enchanting Lakeside Park In WisconsinIs One Of The Best Places To Enjoy Autumn

Published Nov 1, 2023

Written by 

Ben Jones

Sometimes, places that are less well known are the best spots to discover fall magic. In Monroe County, there’s a gorgeous park that’s worthy of a fall day trip. McMullen County Park offers a serene and natural escape, with a host of amenities that make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here’s why it’s one of the best spots in Wisconsin to enjoy fall.

Located in a thousand-acre tract of Monroe County forest land, McMullen Memorial County Park provides a beautiful and diverse natural playground.

A serene lake scene with moss-covered logs in the foreground and lush green trees lining the shore under a cloudy sky.
Google / Alejandro Diaz

It’s near places like Tomah and Warrens, and it’s a doable day trip from cities like Eau Claire and Madison.

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McMullen Memorial County Park is known for its scenic walking trails that will take you through the woodland landscape and around a big rocky feture that’s called Castle Rock.

Sunlight filters through trees in a forest, casting long shadows on a grassy path.
Google / Carri Renaud

The park features many picturesque stone outcroppings that add to its natural charm.

Sign for McMullen Memorial Park with directions for camping, hiking, fishing, and canoeing, pointing left.
Facebook / McMullen Memorial County Park

Whether you're a seasoned hiker looking for a bit of a climb or simply looking for a more leisurely stroll, the park's trails offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors.

Generations of visitors have enjoyed this park.

A serene lake surrounded by trees, reflecting clouds and autumn colors in the water.
Google / Sierra Phillips

Interpretive signs on the trail share the natural and cultural story of the property.

For those seeking an extended stay, the park offers 67 campsites.

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A winding road surrounded by vibrant autumn trees in shades of yellow, orange, and red under a cloudy sky.
Facebook / McMullen Memorial County Park

These campsites are equipped with modern amenities, including restrooms and a shower facility. There are also some tent camping sites – if you’re willing to hike a short distance you can camp near the water’s edge.

The park borders 50-acre Wazeda Lake.

A calm lake reflecting trees and a clear blue sky, with a sandy shore visible in the foreground.
Facebook / McMullen Memorial County Park

It’s perfect for peaceful fishing. Anglers will find the lake stocked with fish, and the park has a public dock and beach.

The park's well-maintained, paved roadways make it accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities.

A winding path through a park lined with vibrant red and orange trees under a cloudy sky.
Facebook / McMullen Memorial County Park

It’s an ideal place for families, solo adventurers, and groups of friends to explore.

I’ve enjoyed some really nice hikes in this park. If you're looking for an escape to the great outdoors, McMullen Memorial County Park is worth seeking out. Whether you're interested in hiking, fishing, camping, or simply soaking in the tranquility of nature, this park has something to offer everyone. Plan your visit today, and discover the beauty of this Monroe County treasure. Learn more about McMullen Memorial County Park on the county website. Get all your outdoor adventure supplies at REI, and here’s where to find more Wisconsin outdoor adventures.

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Nature|Parks & Gardens

Hang Out At Madison’s New Lakefront Porch Park

Published Nov 11, 2024

In Partnership With 

City Cast Madison

Written by 

OnlyInYourState Staff

City Cast Madison is the easiest way to stay updated on what's happening in Madison. Their daily podcast and newsletter covers local news, gives the best life hacks, and curates recommended events. For more Madison insider information visit madison.citycast.fm.

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The new Lakefront Porch Park has its official opening Thursday. (Emily DaVore/Lakefront Porch Volunteer Committee)

A lot of people passed by the Madison Water Utility reservoir at 201 S. Hancock St. and just saw concrete. But others saw an opportunity to create Madison’s newest park.

On Thursday, the city will be able to enjoy the results of 15 years of planning and organizing by city officials and community remembers as the new Lakefront Porch Park opens on the reservoir’s concrete space.

A Connecting Space

The new park features a raised platform, garden beds, and shaded tables and chairs with a spectacular view of Lake Monona. The space is meant to be a social area for residents that acts as a sort of bridge between the First Settlement district and Madison’s downtown.

The park’s origin story goes back to 1995, when plans for a gathering space at the East Wilson St.-John Nolen Drive intersection were included in the East Capitol Neighborhood’s master plan. Some seating was added in 2010 using funds from the Water Utility, and planting beds were added in 2014. The Lakefront Porch Volunteer Committee raised $460,000 to complete the park.

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The future Lakefront Porch Park as it looked in 2020. (Emily DaVore/Lakefront Porch Volunteer Project)

Grand Opening

The city is celebrating with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. Thursday, rain or shine. Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway, Ald. Mike Verveer, and volunteer project manager Emily DeVore will give remarks, followed by volunteers providing food, drinks, and music.

The party is open to all, and residents are encouraged to bike, bus or walk to the park. And make sure to get out on the Porch this year and enjoy Madison’s newest park.

Check out more Madison insider information with City Cast Madison. Their daily newsletter and podcast are the easiest way to stay up-to-date on Madison. For life hacks, daily event recommendations, and local news visit madison.citycast.fm.

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Nature|Parks & Gardens

The Best View Of Madison, Wisconsin Is Found At This Tiny Park

Published Aug 4, 2024

Written by 

Ben Jones

The Madison skyline is evolving quickly - if you haven’t been downtown for a while, you’ll find a lot of new development. But there’s one thing that has been preserved - the view of the state Capitol dome. It’s a huge building that’s almost as tall as the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., and it’s a sight that people have taken in for well over a century. While you can get great capitol views all over town, one of the best can be found at a small park in the neighboring city of Monona. Wyldhaven is a Wisconsin park with a view of Madison you won’t forget.

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You’ll find Wyldhaven Park in the City of Monona – it’s right across Lake Monona from Madison.

A serene sunset over a calm lake, with silhouettes of docks and a person standing by the water's edge.
Google / Josh Sorenson

The two cities flow into one another on both sides of the lake.

The park is located right on the lakeshore in a beautiful Monona neighborhood that’s popular with walkers, runners, and bikers.

A winding path leads to a serene lake view, framed by trees and blooming pink flowers.
Google / Tony Benevenga

There are some large parks in the Madison area. This is not one of them. Wyldhaven Park is just .25 acres, about the size of a common urban residential lot.

Sign for Wyldhaven Park in Monona, surrounded by greenery, with a sunset view over the water in the background.
Google / Shawn

and the two cities flow into each other on both sides of the lake.

But this little park packs a big punch with its incredible Madison view!

Night view of a city skyline featuring a prominent dome building, illuminated against a dark sky with reflections on water.
Google / Edward Brunton

You can get a nice view of the capitol in any season – even though it’s on the other side of the lake.

City skyline of Madison, Wisconsin, with frozen lake in the foreground and clear blue sky above.
Google / Abingail Borger

It stands 284-feet tall, so it doesn’t seem that far away.

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The park offers more than a pretty view.

A black bench facing a calm lake, with a city skyline visible in the background under a soft sunset glow.
Google / Kurt Studt

It has a small beach and some pleasant seating spots. It’s the perfect little escape!

I went to this park with friends, years ago and had such a nice time. Planning a visit to this little Wisconsin park with a view? Learn more about all the great parks and trails in the area on AllTrails Plus. And be sure to check out these must-haves for nature lovers.

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