SNAPSHOTS - A quick peek at notable spaces

Though I'm always on the lookout for great nature spaces, sometimes a deep dive into a spot and its surroundings just doesn't happen for one reason or another. But that doesn't count it out.  It's time to share these SNAPSHOTS of unique outdoor spaces - parks, lighthouses, cemeteries, tiny parks, sculpture art, historical spots.  Add one or two to another outing and you'll have a full day of scenic fun. And, rest assured, there will be more to come.  Enjoy!
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Crystal Lake Park - Beaver Dam

43-acre park with a lake, multiple picnic shelters, grills, softball, fishing, a swimming beach, volleyball and children's playground.


​Hours: Daily, 6am - 10pm
N7190 N. Crystal Lake Rd., Beaver Dam
(Dodge County)
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Waupun County Park - Waupun

103-acre park including 42-unit campground. Other amenities include: walking trails, rentable shelters, children's playground, picnic tables, volleyball court.


825 County Park Rd., Waupun
(Fond du Lac County)
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Forest Mound Cemetery - Waupun

First in operation in 1863, this historical cemetery features a special Civil War Union area called the "Grand Army of the Republic". Also featured, the statue of The Recording Angel, by Lorado Taft, which was created in 1923. It's worth the trip alone.

225 E. Spring Street, Waupun
(Fond du Lac County)
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The End of the Trail - Shaler Park, Waupun

This sculpture by James Earle Fraser is an iconic work of art representing the displacement of Indigenous Peoples in the United States,  and prominently featured in Shaler Memorial Park. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Sites.

451 E. Spring Street, Waupun
(Fond du Lac County)
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Kelly Lake Park - New Berlin

A very small park, along Kelly Lake and the surrounding wetlands. Very scenic. Very birdy. A great spot for a picnic, a little birdwatching, or just a quiet spot to relax with a good book, or have coffee with a friend.

5771 S. Frances Ave., New Berlin
(Waukesha County)
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Ottawa Lake Recreation Area - Dousman

A year-round campground and recreation area in the Southern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest.  Amenities: camping, fishing, swimming, picnic areas, canoeing, kayaking, boating (gas powered motors prohibited).

S59 W36630 Cty. Rd. ZZ, Dousman
(Waukesha County)
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Lynden Sculpture Garden - River Hills

A 40-acre art sculpture park, nestled among park, lake and woodlands. 
Featured exhibitions, and special programs for both adults and children offered throughout the year.



2145 W. Brown Deer Road, River Hills
(Milwaukee County)
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Dr. Evermor Sculpture Park - Freedom

If you're heading to Baraboo, take the time to visit this otherworldly art park with scrap metal sculpture works created by Dr. Evermor (Tom Every). Metal bird orchestras, two-story tall instruments, and a wide array of science fiction looking creations are a wonder to see. Don't miss this one.

S7703 US-12, North Freedom
(Sauk County)
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Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area - Merrimac

Just about 4 miles east of Devil's Lake State Park in Baraboo, Parfrey's Glen is one of the most popular nature preserves in the area. Features a 40-foot deep glacially formed gorge.
​No pets allowed. 

1377 County Rd. DL, Merrimac
(Sauk County)
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Fireman's Park (Upper) - Slinger

This local park in Slinger features a disc golf course on hilly terrain, two rentable shelters, a children's playground, picnic tables, and a open-air gazebo with a great view of the surrounding hills of the Kettle Moraine State Forest.  

116 Parkway Drive, Slinger
(Washington County)
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Idle Isle Park - Muskego

A 7-acre community park on Little Muskego Lake. Features include a swimming beach, fishing pier, boat launch, children's playground, and restrooms and concessions in summer.
Daily parking fee required.

W182S6666 Hardtke Dr., Muskego
(Waukesha County)
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Port Washington Lighthouse - Port Washington

Built in 1935, this historic lighthouse in the Port Washington harbor along Lake Michigan, is worth the walk out for the view. The experience of walking along the jetty while Lake Michigan roils on either side is definitely exhilarating.

106 Lake Street, Port Washington Marina, Port Washington (Ozaukee County)