COPING WITH CABIN FEVER

When winter gets you down, consider visiting one of Wisconsin's State Parks for a seasonal lift.

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The Wisconsin State Park system is 125 years old in 2025. That's reason to celebrate!  Get yourself a yearly park pass for your vehicle, and make plans to enjoy our state parks, state forests, recreation areas, and state trails all year long.

If you're feeling a bit of cabin fever this winter, there are some great events coming up in the parks and nature preserves that can combat that seasonal restlessness. Check out this list, and take some time to visit the events calendar to find even more opportunities to get out and enjoy our natural spaces.

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HORICON MARSH WINTER BUS TOURS

Winter Birds Bus Tour - Horicon

​​Saturday, February 1: 3pm - 5pm
Join DNR Staff and the Horicon Marsh Bird Club for a guided bus tour, and the chance to spot some of Wisconsin's amazing winter bird visitors.  

Where: Horicon Marsh Education Center
Tickets are $15 per person. Limit 30 persons. Tickets must be purchased in advance to reserve a spot.

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Eagle Adventures Bus Tour - Horicon
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Saturday, February 15: 1pm - 4pm
A guided bus tour from Horicon Marsh Education Center will visit known eagle sites.

​Tickets are $15 per person.  Limit 30 persons. Tickets must be purchased in advance to reserve a spot.

Winter bird watching at Horicon Marsh.

An American Bald Eagle spotted in recent years at Mauthe Lake State Recreation Area.

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CANDLELIGHT HIKES 
​IN WISCONSIN STATE PARKS

Candlelight hikes are offered in Wisconsin State Parks throughout the state. They will be held on Saturdays: February 1, 8, and 15.  Parks included: Peninsula State Park, Black River State Forest, Blue Mound State Park, Zillmer Trail in Kettle Moraine State Forest, Pike Lake State Park, Interstate State Park, Blue River State Forest, Newport State Park, Lake Wissota State Park, Governor Thompson State Park, Rib Mountain State Park, Sandhill Wildlife Area, and the Mackenzie Center. 

Be sure to visit the events calendar for specific dates and details. State Park Stickers are required.

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CANDLELIGHT HIKES IN ROCK COUNTY PARKS

Hikes will be held on Saturday evenings during the month of February.

The schedule is as follows:
February 1st: Androne Woods
February 8th: Rockpot Park
February 15th: Magnolia Bluff County Park
February 22nd: Rock River Heritage County Park

All events are from 6pm to 8pm, and include candlelight trails, bonfires, hot chocolate, s'mores, and much more!  The events are free, however, donations are welcome, with any proceeds going toward the improvements in the parks.

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A WALK IN THE PARK 2025
​FIRST FRIDAY WALKS IN MILWAUKEE COUNTY PARKS 

The Milwaukee Parks Foundation is hosting a monthly hike on the first Friday of the month, throughout the coming year.

Everyone is welcome to these free events. The purpose is to connect with nature, and get to know and appreciate the parks throughout Milwaukee County.

The next walk coming up:
Friday, February 7, 12pm - 1pm
Red Arrow Park
920 N. Water Street
Milwaukee

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NATURE CENTERS & PRESERVES

These legacies of nature offer lots of opportunity to get outside, with many offering a wealth of programs indoors during winter as well. 

Check out the web feature LEGACIES OF NATURE for a gallery of nature centers and preserves worth your time and attention.

​Visit their websites for event listings and more.

Some winter scenes from Wehr Nature Center.

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