Friends of Governor Nelson State Park

08/19/2026

Shoreline Restoration at The Four Doors

August 2026: Volunteers showed up on Stewardship Saturday 8/15/26 to restore the north shoreline of Lake Mendota at the sight known as "The Four Doors". The Four Doors name stems from a historical lakeside boathouse that featured FOUR prominent bay doors (the boathouse has since been razed). Anglers and boaters used the structure as a highly visible geographic marker from the water as it was known to be a legendary fishing hotspot....

August 2026: Volunteers showed up on Stewardship Saturday 8/15/26 to restore the north shoreline of Lake Mendota at the sight known as “The Four Doors”. The Four Doors name stems from …

08/15/2026

Twenty people joined for Stewardship Saturday to work on the bank of the north shore of Lake Mendota, at Governor Nelson State Park. Thanks to everyone for a lot of great work and a delicious hot dog grill out.

08/14/2026

Shop.support.smile!

Gov Nelson State Park Merchandise NOW Available online and in the Park Ranger Office.

Check it all out below!

https://mailchi.mp/8c0300daf8df/gov-nelson-state-park-merchandise-now-available-8912619

When you purchase items online or in person, proceeds will be directed to supporting the Park

Buy things you like.
Support the Park you LOVE!

08/13/2026

08/09/2026

08/06/2026

Join us to do some good and have fun!

08/04/2026

Beauty seen in the Park yesterday: Monarch on Prairie Blazing Star, Common Milkweed, and Spotted Joe-Pye W**d.

07/31/2026

Fireflies are known for their beautiful bioluminescence, but these helpful insects spend most of their lifecycle lightless and flightless, feasting on slugs, snails and garden pests like cutworms.

Many have already emerged in their flying form this summer and can be spotted in backyards and grasslands. Insecticide-free yards are much more likely to twinkle on hot summer evenings!

Have you spotted any fireflies this summer? Learn more and get involved with the Firefly Atlas by reporting firefly sightings at https://www.fireflyatlas.org/

Photo Credit: Ken Buchholz

07/27/2026

Looks fascinating!

Join us on Saturday, August 8th, for Vision at the Arboretum, a free, educational science event exploring the fascinating world of bird vision! Learn how birds see their environment, discover how vision affects their survival, and hear the story behind a mysterious eye disease affecting songbirds. This year, we're joined by guest lecturers Dr. Valerie Shearn-Bochsler (U.S. Geological Survey) and Dr. Freya Mowat (School of Veterinary Medicine, SMPH, UW-Madison).

After the talks, get up close and personal with a Great Horned Owl, Peregrine Falcon, and Broad-Winged Hawk from Hoo's Woods Raptor Center and learn about how their extraordinary vision helps with their survival in the wild.

Additional activities include:
A guided bird walk through the Arboretum with expert birder, Chuck Henrikson
A lesson on local raptor rehabilitation and conservation efforts from Wings Raptor Center
A complimentary breakfast of muffins, bagels, fruits, and beverages beginning at 9:45 am

This event is free and open to the public. RSVP appreciated but not required. Add it to your Calendars here: https://vision.wisc.edu/vision-at/

Due to the presence of live birds, we kindly ask that pets and service animals remain at home.

We look forward to seeing you there!

07/17/2026

Dear Friends,

From renovating aging facilities to restoring historic landmarks to enhancing natural habitat, there's been no shortage of exciting work happening at Governor Nelson State Park.

Our latest video showcases the many new projects that are helping preserve and enhance Governor Nelson State Park for everyone to enjoy. These projects are made possible through the dedication of our volunteers, members, and donors, our partnership with DNR Park staff, and both state and external funding. It's inspiring to see what can be accomplished when people come together to care for a place they love.

Click below to watch the latest updates and see the transformation for yourself.

Thank you for your continued support. None of this would be possible without you—and the story isn't over yet.

The transformation continues!

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.