Governor Nelson State Park

Welcome to the beautiful Governor Nelson State Park located on the shores of Lake Mendota in Waunakee. Come explore over 8 miles of trails or come spend a day on the 10,000 acre lake.

Trails: The North Mendota Trail is 12 feet wide and paved and links up to the nearby town of Waunakee.

The Morningside Trail is 2.4 miles long and is even open in the winter to cross country skiers and snow-shoers.

The Oak Savanna Trail is 1.8 miles long and lives up to it's name by going through oak and savanna habitats. There is great scenic overlook on this trails.

The Redtail Hawk Trail is 1 mile long and links the Oak Savanna Trail and Woodland Trail.

The Woodland Trail is 1 mile long and also lives up to it's name by going through the park's forest. Old Native American Burial grounds can be seen on this trail.

Picnicking: Governor Nelson State Park has 2 picnic shelters, the Dragonfly Shelter and the Sandy Beach Shelter. Both shelters have grills.

CAUTION! There are no lifeguards on Duty at Governor Nelson State Park's swimming beach so swim at your own risk.

To contact the park office please call 608-831-3005.