A new law taking effect next week will make all newly purchased state park passes valid for 12 months after purchase, providing outdoor enthusiasts with more time to explore Wisconsin’s beautiful public lands. The change, implemented by the Department of Natural Resources, is aimed at encouraging people to spend more time outdoors and visit new locations. Additionally, any pass purchased in December this year will be valid through January 2026, giving visitors extra time to enjoy the state parks and forests.
The new passes will be slightly larger and feature a new design, available for $28 for vehicles with Wisconsin license plates and $38 for vehicles with out-of-state plates. Families with multiple vehicles can purchase additional stickers at a reduced rate. State trail passes, separate from park passes, will still expire at the end of December each year.
With winter being a less busy time at state parks, visitors can take advantage of winter sports options like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Devil’s Lake near Baraboo remains the most visited state park in Wisconsin.
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Photo credit madison.com
