CALUMET COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – State leaders are encouraging people to get outside and enjoy what Wisconsin has to offer, and this weekend, the Department of Natural Resources is offering the opportunity to visit any of the state-owned properties for free.
“High Cliff is a beautiful park on the east shore of Lake Winnebago,” said DNR Outdoor Skills Trainer Kayla Sasse. “They do have a boat launch and marina there. There’s some fishing there. I really like the hiking trails at High Cliff. There’s also an observation tower that you can climb up and get a beautiful view over Lake Winnebago,.”
High Cliff is one of 50 state parks, 15 state forests and 44 state trails that will waive entrance fees on Saturday and Sunday. DNR officials say fishing on the 15,000 lakes and miles of streams is free too.
“All rules and regulations still apply as far as bag limits, times — things like that. But you just don’t need that fishing license,” said Sasse.
DNR officials say this is the 11th Free Fun Weekend.
Many hikers took to the Red Bird Trail Wednesday morning.
“I think we’ve been going about two weeks straight now because it’s a nice walk through,” said Jared Fails from Neenah. “You always find something new, basically, because you got all those side paths that we have yet to explore.”
“The fresh air, the free scenery and sometimes you get to see deer and other butterflies here too,” said Collin Gallagher from Neenah.
“A lot of trails. A lot of paths that you can go to,” said Brandon Garcia from Menasha. “I have to work weekend, but I can come here anytime during the week and I can go and visit any other state park.”
DNR officials say High Cliff State Park is very popular, seeing about 626,000 visitors a year.
Sasse says planning ahead for the free-fun weekend is advised.
“I do know that especially the state parks do fill up early. So, if you are planning on going out, try getting and going a little earlier to try and beat the crowds.”
According to the DNR, a resident annual vehicle sticker to enter state parks is $28, while a daily pass costs $8.
Find out more online at D N R dot W I dot Gov.
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