The FWSP online sticker store is open for the purchase of 2024 Wisconsin state park stickers and trail passes! We also offer special items for all.

About FWSP

/ April 21, 2024


The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (FWSP) has a notable history that spans over two decades, with significant contributions to the preservation and enhancement of Wisconsin's natural resources. Here are the key historical points:

  • Establishment: FWSP was established in August 1996 as a statewide non-profit organization with the mission to preserve, protect, promote, and enhance Wisconsin's state parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas.
  • Growth: From its inception with just a few volunteer groups, FWSP has expanded to include over 80 local Friends groups, representing over 5000 individuals across Wisconsin, encompassing not only parks but also forests, trails, state wildlife areas, natural areas, and education centers.
  • Volunteerism: Through its local Friends groups, contributing to the maintenance and enhancement of state properties, volunteers engage in a variety of activities, including annual park cleanups, trail work days, and special events like candlelight nights and community campfires
  • Financial Support: FWSP has provided significant financial contributions to the state parks system, including funding for project requests, naturalist programs, and the purchase of accessible equipment to improve visitor experiences.
  • Advocacy and Education: The organization has been active in educating lawmakers and citizens on issues impacting state parks and advocating for necessary funding and policies to support these natural treasures.
  • Recognition and Awards: FWSP recognizes the efforts of outstanding Friends members, state park system staff, and community partners through various awards and contests, such as the annual FWSP photo contest, which encourages community involvement and promotes the state park system
  • Strategic Partnerships: FWSP works closely with the DNR and other partners to achieve its mission, providing technical support to local Friends groups, sponsoring statewide events, and offering grant opportunities to enhance the state park system.
  • Public Engagement: The 2024 Adventure Challenge offers a range of activities within Wisconsin's scenic state parks, designed to strengthen family ties, enhance teamwork, and create unforgettable memories for participants of all ages, including children, families, adults, and small business teams seeking a unique team-building experience.
Throughout its history, FWSP has been dedicated to preserving, protecting, promoting, and enhancing Wisconsin's state parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas. The organization continues to support the state's natural resources through volunteerism, financial support, advocacy, and community engagement, ensuring that future generations can enjoy these natural treasures


The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (FWSP) has a notable history that spans over two decades, with significant contributions to the preservation and enhancement of Wisconsin's natural resources. Here are the key historical points:

  • Establishment: FWSP was established in August 1996 as a statewide non-profit organization with the mission to preserve, protect, promote, and enhance Wisconsin's state parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas.
  • Growth: From its inception with just a few volunteer groups, FWSP has expanded to include over 80 local Friends groups, representing over 5000 individuals across Wisconsin, encompassing not only parks but also forests, trails, state wildlife areas, natural areas, and education centers.
  • Volunteerism: Through its local Friends groups, contributing to the maintenance and enhancement of state properties, volunteers engage in a variety of activities, including annual park cleanups, trail work days, and special events like candlelight nights and community campfires
  • Financial Support: FWSP has provided significant financial contributions to the state parks system, including funding for project requests, naturalist programs, and the purchase of accessible equipment to improve visitor experiences.
  • Advocacy and Education: The organization has been active in educating lawmakers and citizens on issues impacting state parks and advocating for necessary funding and policies to support these natural treasures.
  • Recognition and Awards: FWSP recognizes the efforts of outstanding Friends members, state park system staff, and community partners through various awards and contests, such as the annual FWSP photo contest, which encourages community involvement and promotes the state park system
  • Strategic Partnerships: FWSP works closely with the DNR and other partners to achieve its mission, providing technical support to local Friends groups, sponsoring statewide events, and offering grant opportunities to enhance the state park system.
  • Public Engagement: The 2024 Adventure Challenge offers a range of activities within Wisconsin's scenic state parks, designed to strengthen family ties, enhance teamwork, and create unforgettable memories for participants of all ages, including children, families, adults, and small business teams seeking a unique team-building experience.
Throughout its history, FWSP has been dedicated to preserving, protecting, promoting, and enhancing Wisconsin's state parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas. The organization continues to support the state's natural resources through volunteerism, financial support, advocacy, and community engagement, ensuring that future generations can enjoy these natural treasures
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Are you eager to elevate your family outings to thrilling new heights? The 2024 Adventure Challenge invites families to venture into the great outdoors and capture the essence of exploration in Wisconsin's stunning state parks. This isn't just another family trip; it's a chance to strengthen bonds, face challenges together, and create lasting memories.

Discover Family-Friendly Adventures in Wisconsin's Pristine Landscapes
Wisconsin's state parks are a hidden gem of natural splendor, and the 2024 Adventure Challenge offers your family a unique opportunity to experience this beauty like never before. With activities designed for participants of all ages, everyone from the youngest adventurers to the adults will find excitement and joy amidst nature.

Build Stronger Family Ties Through Teamwork

The challenges are straightforward, allowing you to concentrate on enjoying the activities and working together as a team. As you tackle each challenge, you'll see your family unite, support one another, and celebrate every achievement, big or small.
Engage Both Parents and Children

This is your opportunity to deeply involve your children in a remarkable adventure that merges breathtaking scenery with deep, meaningful interactions. Prepare for a journey that goes beyond ordinary outings—it's an adventure that will spark conversations for years to come.

Experience Nature-Driven Team Building Challenges

Our nature-driven team building challenges are perfect for combining physical activity with mental engagement, all set against the backdrop of the great outdoors. From complex scavenger hunts that demand strategic thinking and collaboration, to building shelters or bridges in natural settings, these activities not only provide a sense of achievement but also enhance communication and teamwork. Participating in activities like navigating a ropes course or embarking on a geocaching adventure helps teams build trust and respect, fostering creativity and cohesion in the face of nature's unpredictability.
Hear From Our Participants


"Last year, my family and I took part in the Adventure Challenge, and it was an unforgettable experience. The kids still talk about the scavenger hunt and ask when we're going back. It was the perfect mix of fun, learning, and family bonding. We can't wait to see what this year has in store!" - Robert, father of two

Forge Unforgettable Memories in Wisconsin's Natural Wonders
Make 2024 a year filled with extraordinary experiences by joining the Adventure Challenge. Sign up today and explore the majestic Wisconsin State Parks while creating enduring memories. Picture the stories you'll tell, the laughter echoing through the trees, and the pride in every accomplishment.
Adventure at Your Fingertips

Whether you print the challenge page or access it on your device, the adventure is ready whenever you are. Plan a weekend escape or a spontaneous day trip—the Adventure Challenge awaits your arrival.
Prizes and Excitement

Enhance the excitement as winners are chosen through a random computerized selection. Not only will you enjoy the great outdoors with your loved ones, but you also have the chance to win and add an extra thrill to your adventure.

Community Support
The KIDS Challenges are inspired by the Wisconsin DNR Wisconsin Explorer booklets, ensuring that your adventure is not only enjoyable but also educational. With support from local sponsors like Great Lakes Roofing, you can feel confident knowing the community supports every step of your journey.
Take Action Now

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Register now for the 2024 Adventure Challenge and start planning your family's next grand adventure. Whether you're looking for a thrilling weekend getaway or fun day trips, we've got something for everyone. Sign up today and make 2024 a year filled with unforgettable family memories in the stunning natural beauty of Wisconsin. Come join us, and let the adventures begin!
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2024 Friends of Wisconsin State Parks Photo Contest & 2025 State Parks Calendar

The 2024 FWSP Photo Contest ends on Labor Day – Sept. 2, 2024 at midnight

Click for the entry form

The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (FWSP) invites all interested individuals to enter their favorite state park, forest, trail, or recreation area photo in our annual photography competition. Winners will be featured in the 2025 Friends of Wisconsin State Parks Calendar, released December 2024.
There are so many opportunities to enjoy the Wisconsin state parks during all four seasons. We are looking for photo entries that include beautiful scenery along with people recreating and enjoying activities like hiking, picnicking, cross-country skiing, kayaking/canoeing, horseback riding, biking, and exploring.

WHO MAY ENTER:
Submissions are accepted from amateur photographers ages 14 and over. Professional photographers who earn more than half of their income taking pictures are not eligible. The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks board members will determine winners’ eligibility. Employees of the Wisconsin Department of
Natural Resources and board members of the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks and their immediate family members are not eligible to win.

WHAT TO ENTER:
  • Photos must be submitted in high resolution (at least 300 DPI). 
  • Photographs must have been shot within the past three years.
  • Photographs must portray a specific Wisconsin State Park, Forest, or Trail and cannot include illegal activities (i.e. camping in an unauthorized area). We are looking for photos that show scenes from the parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas. Wildlife photos will not score as high as people enjoying activity submissions.
  • Cropped photos are eligible, horizontal images are preferred. Photos that appear unnatural will not be considered.
  • An entrant must hold all rights to a photograph. For a photo in which a person is recognizable, you must secure a model release from the subject and include this with the submission.
  • Photographs previously published or pending publication, or photos that violate or infringe upon another person’s copyright, are not eligible.
  • You may submit one photograph per season and up to 4 total entries. We do not accept more than one contestant per email address.
BY ENTERING A PHOTO YOU ARE VERIFYING:
• The image is your own;
• The photo has not been altered beyond standard optimization;
• The photo is not subject to any third-party agreements;
• And no laws were violated in obtaining the photo.

Photos should accurately reflect the original image. Photos that have been digitally altered beyond standard optimization (cropping, color, contrast, etc.) will be disqualified. This includes the digital addition or deletion of objects in the photos. Photo eligibility is the sole discretion of the contest judges. Photos may originate in any form but must be submitted electronically. A high-resolution image must be submitted. If a high-resolution photo cannot be provided, the entry will be disqualified. Photos may also be watermarked if desired when uploaded to the contest page, however: the watermark should be inconspicuous enough not to interfere with the judging of the photo, and a clean, watermark-free
 a version of the photo must be available at FWSP’s request. If a watermark-free version cannot be provided, the entry will be disqualified. Please do not include photographs that display identifiable people.

HOW TO ENTER:
Internet access is required to participate in the contest. Participants must review the full rules
before entering any photos. Photos must be submitted electronically via the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks website FWSP.org. There is no entry fee to participate. No more than four(4) photos may be entered by any one person. See the website FWSP.org for instructions.
To submit your photos go to FWSP.org
  1. Visit FWSP.org and click on the photo contest page.
  2. Follow the instructions on the contest page.
All photos uploaded to the FWSP contest page should have:
  1. The season. (Spring, Summer, Fall, and winter)
  2. The state park, forest, or trail name where the photo was taken.
  3. Name of Photographer. (first and last)
  4. Photographer’s Address. (Street, City, ZIP)
  5. Phone #.
  6. Email Address.
  7. Friends group affiliation, if any.
This information will be required to submit the photos at the FWSP.org Contest Page. This information is needed so that FWSP can, 
  1. properly credit contest photos when utilized in promotional media, and
  2. notify winners.



JUDGING:
FWSP will review each photograph received and will accept only those entries that meet the official requirements outlined in these rules. A panel of FWSP board members and staff will review accepted entries and select the winning photos. Selected photos are not official winners until high-resolution, watermark-free versions are provided to FWSP. If such a version cannot be provided, an alternate winner will be selected. The decisions of FWSP and the contest judges are final.
WINNERS:
Winners will be notified in September 2024. Winning photos will appear in the 2025 FWSP calendar,
tentatively set to be released in December 2024.
YOUR RIGHTS:
By participating in the contest, you hereby grant FWSP unlimited, non-exclusive, irrevocable
permission to publish and reproduce your image in media including but not limited to the website,
and promotional materials into perpetuity. You retain all other applicable ownership rights to the
photo. FWSP agrees to properly credit photographers whenever their photos are used. FWSP reserves
the right to exclude any photo from the contest.

Patricia Loosen
Executive Director Friends of Wisconsin State Parks
patricia.loosen@fwsp.org
608-294-0810
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2024 Gift Packages:

Welcome to The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks online store for 2023. Ordering online makes shopping very easy. Orders are processed and shipped within 1-2 business days via USPS.
The 2024 state park vehicle admission stickers and trail passes make great gifts. They are gifts that can be used every day, all year long, all around the state at our beautiful Wisconsin state parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas.
The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks online store uses PayPal. You can shop with or without a PayPal account. 
It's easy:  CLICK HERE TO SHOP


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Individual Membership (Calendar Year) $25.00

Family Membership (Calendar Year)  $35.00 

Friend's Group Membership/Renewal
Since its inception in 1996, the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks has worked with state parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas Friends Groups to improve state lands experience for the millions of people who visit each year and to ensure that millions more will be able to enjoy Wisconsin’s natural beauty in the future.

Your Individual or Family membership continues to help:
  • Strengthen Partnerships: Enhances the collaboration between Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (FWSP) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), ensuring effective resource sharing and joint initiatives to benefit state parks and recreation areas.
  • Support Local Groups: Deepens relationships and increases the effectiveness of local Friends groups through educational programs, technical assistance, and funding opportunities, enhancing their capacity to manage and improve park facilities and programs.
  • Financial Sustainability: Develop sustainable funding sources to ensure the financial health of FWSP, enabling it to continue its mission and expand its impact across Wisconsin's parks and natural areas.
  • Advocacy and Awareness: Increases public awareness and engagement in preserving and enhancing state parks through advocacy, educational outreach, and community involvement.
  • Operational Excellence: Improves the operational capabilities and organizational efficiency of FWSP, ensuring it remains a strong and effective leader in the stewardship of Wisconsin's natural resources.

Corporate Sponsor/Memberships

Contact Information
Patricia Loosen
Executive Director of Wisconsin State Parks
Friends of Wisconsin State Parks
23 S. Main St. Suite O
Hartford, WI 53027
patricia.loosen@fwsp.org
(608) 264-8994


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FWSP depends on the generosity of donors for the funds required to carry out its mission of preserving, protecting, promoting, and enhancing Wisconsin State Parks, Trails, Forests, and Recreation Areas. 
In 2023 FWSP funded $83,000 in project requests and the local Friends groups added over $141,000 for a total of $224,000 in state park system improvements and Naturalist program funding.
In addition,  in 2022, The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks purchased two accessible kayaks for over $6600 and ten bike repair stations for $20,000.  YOUR DONATIONS COUNT!
  • Monetary Donation - Download PDF (Print, fill out, and mail form)
  • Memorial Donation
  • Support an FWSP program
  • Stock Donations
  • Corporate Sponsor
    • ln collaboration with over 80 local Friend's chapters, we seek to enrich the park experience for the millions of people who visit each year and to ensure that millions more will be able to enjoy Wisconsin's natural treasures in the future.

    Join a local friend's group

    We also educate lawmakers and citizens on issues that impact their parks. And each year, we support local Friends groups by providing funds for education-related activities such as hiring park naturalists, developing interpretive exhibits, hosting wildlife demonstrations and outdoor skill training sessions, and improving key infrastructure in our parks. 
    We are continually seeking to grow our capacity to positively impact Wisconsin parks. If you or your business would be interested in partnering with FWSP, please contact us. 

    Patricia Loosen
    Executive Director Friends of Wisconsin State Parks
    Friends of Wisconsin State Parks
    23 S. Main St.  Suite O
    Hartford, WI  53027
    patricia.loosen@fwsp.org
    608-264-8994

    Support Your Parks

    by on January 04, 2024
    FWSP depends on the generosity of donors for the funds required to carry out its mission of preserving, protecting, promoting, and enhancing...
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    The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks are passionate about Wisconsin’s State Parks, Trails, Forests, and Recreation Areas. It's not only about today but to have the vision to be effective stewards of our public lands so future generations will be able to enjoy these outdoor resources. The mission of the FWSP is to preserve, promote, protect and enhance the Wisconsin State Park System. The board members, all volunteers, serve on various committees such as policy, outreach, membership, fundraising, and finance. At times, the responsibilities seem overwhelming, however, the benefits of being able to “make a difference” on statewide issues are extremely rewarding. The FWSP supports the work of 87 local Friends Groups around the state and the work they do at their respective recreation properties. 
    Just by being involved, you’re sure to learn more about Wisconsin state parks, all of the friends' groups that are represented by the FWSP, interact with DNR officials and community members, and much more.
    You can make a difference by being a part of a greater mission and enjoy these benefits:
    • The personal satisfaction that comes with giving of time and talent to further the mission of The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks
    • Community Enrichment
    • Volunteer expertise and experience
    • Personal growth and satisfaction
    • Opportunities to meet new people
    • Resumé potential
    Board members bring a vast array of skills and experiences to the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks. Having board members with diverse backgrounds professionally and geographically is the strength of the organization.. Key qualities of board members are: Possessing a Passion - deep interest in the mission of the FWSP; Vision and Leadership - the ability to see the big picture and the courage to set direction to achieve the organization’s mission; Stewardship - the integrity to serve the interests of the organization as well as the citizens of the State of Wisconsin. A successful board is where the team acts and works as one.
    “Test Drive” a board position by attending a couple of quarterly meetings. Currently, these meetings are conducted via teleconferencing. This will allow you to become familiar with current board members and the organization’s operating procedures along with current projects and challenges. The FWSP would like you to consider becoming part of the team, an opportunity awaits you.

    WE WANT YOU

    Click here to express your interest

    Join the FWSP Team

    by on January 03, 2024
    The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks are passionate about Wisconsin’s State Parks, Trails, Forests, and Recreation Areas. It's not only ...


    Since its inception in 1996, the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks has worked with state park, forest, trail, and recreation area Friends Groups to improve state lands experience for the millions of people who visit each year and to ensure that millions more will be able to enjoy Wisconsin’s natural beauty in the future.
    Click the map to enlarge. (Courtesy of WI DNR)
    Believing that each generation is responsible for leaving behind a better legacy of conservation, the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks was created to preserve, protect, promote and enhance Wisconsin’s state parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas.
    Friends of Wisconsin State Parks is a non-profit umbrella organization supporting 39 friends groups around the state. FWSP provides technical support, sponsors events such as Work*Play*Earth Day, an annual Volunteer Jamboree, a photography contest, and Gold Seal and HERO awards. It also provides grant opportunities for state parks.

    Are you a member of a Friend's Group? The FWSP newsletter - Friend to Friend - is all about our friends. Click here to sign up for the newsletter for Friends.
    • Every year friends groups provide thousands of volunteer hours to help support the mission and activities of more than 70 Wisconsin state parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas. Friends members: serve as campground hosts, visitor center hosts, naturalists, and nature center hosts, adopt a trail volunteer, and assist with other special projects at the property; 
    • raise money to purchase playground equipment, interpretive displays, signs, shelters, kiosks, educational materials, and more; 
    • organize annual park cleanups and regular trail work days;
    • plan and help with special events including Candlelight nights, Community campfires, festivals/concerts, educational programs, and other special events; 
    • provide and assist with concessions; and assist with the construction of trails, shelters and accessible cabins, birdhouses, and more.

    The Friends of FWSP

    by on January 02, 2024
    Since its inception in 1996, the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks has worked with state park, forest, trail, and recreation area Friends Gr...
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    Friends of Wisconsin State Parks
    Patricia Loosen
    Executive Director
    23 S. Main Street Suite O
    Hartford, WI 53027
    Patricia.Loosen@fwsp.org
    608-294-0810