Parks and Beaches
Over two hundred seventy parks to stretch your legs. Why not try them all? Open fields to let the kids run wild. Disc golf. Pickleball. Frisbee. Picnics and sunset-watching. All this space to explore and enjoy. And best of all, it’s free.
PARKS & NATURAL AREAS
The City of Madison Parks Division provides an extensive list with details about the 6,000 acres of parkland in the 270 parks that Madison has to offer. Check out their website for a full list of parks, their amenities, their locations and an interactive park amenity locator. Dane County Parks offer just over 5,000 acres of recreational parklands to be explored. Go to the Dane County Parks website for a full list of parks and locations.
DOG PARKS
Our best friends have a place to run, roll around in mud, meet (and sniff) new four-legged friends and even catch a frisbee! The Madison area has eight off-leash exercise areas for dogs and their human friends. Dane County also has seven off-leash dog parks.
Most Madison park locations allow dogs on-leash, with select parks being dog-free — including all conservation parks. A permit is required for both off-leash and on-leash locations and may be purchased here. In addition, the Dane County Parks Division allows dogs on-leashes in all Dane County-operated parks. Permits are required and can be purchased here.
BEACHES
With welcoming waters spread throughout Madison, you’ll find frequent beachfront fun. Madison’s majestic lakes offer beautiful views and activities for all. Swim, fish, play, or relax at one of these sandy shore-side sanctuaries. The Madison area has 12 beaches to be enjoyed throughout the summer months. Get information about beach amenities, including which beaches have lifeguards, swim ropes, concessions and more.
In addition to the beaches, Madison is also home to Goodman Pool, a large public swimming pool, complete with two water slides and several play areas for children.
Madison's beaches usually open in early June and remain open through September. Please check beach conditions before enjoying your day in the sun.
Lake Monona
Lake Mendota
Lake Wingra
Lake Monona
Lake Mendota
Lake Waubesa
Venturing outside of Madison? We recommend these other great beaches in the area.
- Stewart Lake County Park Beach – Mount Horeb
- Fireman's Park Beach – Verona
- Governor Nelson State Park – Waunakee
- Troll Beach – Stoughton
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