DNR Parks And Recreation News

What’s Happening In Wisconsin’s State Parks, Forests, Trails And Recreation Areas

Rail trails like Military Ridge State Trail are a great option for completing the Happy Little 5K this April. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR

Happy Little 5K

Trees make us healthier and happier. Return the favor by supporting healthy trees in Wisconsin. The Happy Little 5K: Run for the Trees is a virtual 5K race that directly supports forest health and tree planting efforts across the state.

This is a race that anyone and everyone can do. Participants can walk, run, skate, scooter, cycle or use a mobility device to complete the 5K (3.1 miles) race at a location of their choosing between April 18 and 26, 2026. Start planning your route with our Find a Park webpage.

Every participant will receive a keepsake T-shirt, a commemorative bib number, a finisher’s medal and a Run for the Trees sticker.

Register for the Happy Little 5K today. Be sure to select “Wisconsin: Happy Little 5K” when registering!

Campground Hosts Needed!

We are looking for equestrian campground hosts at the New Prospect Horseriders Campground. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR

The Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit is looking for campground host volunteers for the 2026 season. This is an exciting opportunity for anyone who loves camping and the outdoors.

Host responsibilities generally include:

• Greeting and assisting campers with information about the park and facilities.
• Assisting in daily campground operations and setting an example by being a model camper.
• Cleaning campsites, bathrooms and facilities and assisting with other light maintenance.
• Sharing park information and assisting with campground programs.
• Enjoying the company of other campers and making sure that they have a safe and enjoyable stay.

Host opportunities are available at the Long Lake and Mauthe Lake campgrounds throughout the spring and summer.

Mauthe Lake Campground

• April 11-29
• April 29-May 27 (Memorial Day)
• June 24-July 22 (Fourth of July)
• July 22-Aug. 19
• Aug. 19-Sept. 16 (Labor Day)

Long Lake Campground

• July 22-Aug. 19
• Aug. 19-Sept. 16 (Labor Day)

In addition to general campground host openings, the DNR is seeking equestrian campground hosts at the New Prospect Horseriders Campground for the following terms:

• Aug. 19-Sept. 16 (Labor Day)
• Oct. 14-Nov. 4

If you want to take advantage of this unique opportunity to give back and enjoy nature, contact the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit at DNRFWPKMNU@wisconsin.gov or 262-626-2116.

Northern Highland – American Legion State Forest, Governor Thompson State Park and Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area are among others with campground host openings!

To learn more, visit the DNR’s Volunteer Impact webpage.

General questions on volunteering? Contact Janet Hutchens at Janet.Hutchens@wisconsin.gov.