Parks Menu

Warner Park

Warner Park
Address: 2930 N. Sherman Ave.
Hours: 4:00am - 10:00pm
Park Type:> Community
Acres: 213.49
Restroom: Yes
Drinking Water: Yes
Shoreline On: Lake Mendota

Park History

The use of the Warner Park area as a public park dates back to 1898, when the Madison Park and Pleasure Drive Association (MPPDA) built a segment of the Farwell Pleasure Drive through the John P. Woodard farm.1 The Woodard Bay segment of the drive ran along a beach on the northwest side of Lake Mendota. This beach area was over 2200 feet long, the bottom was sandy, and the water was shallow enough to make it ideal for children.2

Ernest Noble Warner, who had been president of the MPPDA since 1912, died after an automobile accident in July, 1930. Warner had served in the 1905 State Assembly, where he was the Progressive floor leader and successfully introduced landmark civil service and primary election legislation. 3 Just before he died, he appointed a committee of the MPPDA to investigate acquiring the beach for the public.4 Within two weeks of his death, the Ernest N. Warner Memorial Park Committee was formed to raise $20,000 to buy the beach as a memorial.5

But fund raising was difficult during the Depression. Though the committee made periodic payments on a land contract, it still owed $10,700 in 1937. 6 The beach could be improved through federal work relief programs, but the land had to be owned by a public body.7 There were also fears that Woodard's heirs would lose patience, foreclose, and sell the land for development, or even an amusement park.8 Fundraising resumed, and the Madison City Council formally accepted ownership of the beach in July, 1939.9

During the Second World War, the city set aside a portion of the beach for recreational use by servicemen stationed in Madison. 10

In the 1950's, several farms north of the railroad tracks were purchased to develop the park as a major recreational space for the growing northeast part of Madison. 11

These purchases included part of a wetlands area known as Castle Marsh. The Wisconsin Conservation Department owned the rest of Castle Marsh. Castle Marsh was a spawning grounds for northern pike, though nearby development was making it less productive. An agreement between the Conservation Department and the City of Madison allowed for the creation of the Warner Park lagoon and the preservation of enough wetlands to support northern pike fry.12 Part of Warner Park is still technically owned by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, though it is administered by the Madison Parks Division.

Over the years, recreational facilities have been added to Warner Park. This includes facilities for amateur, league, and high school team sports.

The Warner Park football field was used for Madison East and La Follette High School games until 2002. The Madison Mustangs (Central States Football League) also played semiprofessional football in Warner Park from 1964 through 1974.

Warner Park has been Madison's home for minor league and summer college league baseball. Teams that played in Warner Park have been the Madison Muskies (1982-1993, Class A Oakland A's affiliate), Madison Hatters (1994, Class A St. Louis Cardinals affiliate), Madison Black Wolf (1996-2000, Northern League), and the Madison Mallards (2001-present, Northwoods League). The Muskies are particularly remembered for creative promotions such as "Kazoo Night," the chant of "Let's Go, Fish," and players who went on to the major leagues, including Tim Belcher, Scott Brosius, Jose Canseco, Felix Jose, Steve Kiefer, Luis Polonia, Terry Steinbach, and Walt Weiss.13 The Mallards, the most recent occupants, have developed a large and loyal following.

Warner Park is the home of Rhythm & Booms, Madison's annual Fourth of July music and fireworks extravaganza, which draws over a quarter million visitors to the park itself and many more thousands to other spots in the city from which the fireworks are visible.

Warner Park's 18-foot tall replica of the Statue of Liberty was originally erected in 1951 in Giddings Park on the southeast shore of Lake Mendota. It was one of several such statues donated by local groups throughout the country in honor of the 40th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America. When a portion of Giddings Park was traded for more beach access, the statue was moved into storage. It was later put in Warner Park and a court of honor was built.

The picnic shelter with the colorful cylinders was designed by Kenton Peters and was built in 1994. It replaces one that burned in 1992.

On September 19, 1999, the Warner Park Community Recreation Center was officially dedicated. Northside residents and businesses contributed much of the energy and money needed for this project.
  1. Report of Moneys Received and Expended and Work Done by the Madison Park and Pleasure Drive Association for the Year Ending April 10, 1899, p. 4.
  2. Wisconsin State Journal, July 30, 1939.
  3. Capital Times, July 9, 1930, p. 1-2
  4. "$20,000 Park to Honor Warner Memory," Wisconsin State Journal, July 22, 1930.
  5. "Plan $20,000 Park to Honor Warner," Capital Times, July 22, 1930, p. 1
  6. "Plans for E. N. Warner Public Park on Lake Mendota," Wisconsin State Journal, July 2, 1937
  7. Letter from J. W. Jackson to Mayor James R. Law, Sept. 25, 1936 (in Parks Division files.)
  8. "Lakewood District Residents Vote to Support Retention of Warner Park," Wisconsin State Journal, July 27, 1937, p. 8
  9. Minutes of the Madison Board of Park Commissioners, July 24, 1939
  10. Minutes of the Madison Board of Park Commissioners, May 25, 1942
  11. "Northeast Land Sought for Park," Wisconsin State Journal, November 26, 1953.
  12. "Castle Marsh Spawning Area to Be Preserved," Wisconsin State Journal, February 20, 1958.
  13. "Canseco? No way, Jose," Wisconsin State Journal, April 14, 1991.

At this Park

  • The baseball diamonds are programmed with youth and adult league play. If you would like to reserve a field or facility, please call the Athletic Scheduler at (608)266-4711.

    Bowman Field: RESERVE ONLINE
    Warner Park Stadium Field: REQUEST ONLINE

    NOTE: Metal cleats are not allowed in the bullpen at Bowman Park.

    Fields, open or closed?
    If a field reservation is canceled, a notification is emailed to the user who made the field reservation. Notifications are sent by 2:00 pm Monday through Friday and by 9:00 am on weekends and holidays. 
     

    View all Baseball Fields

    • Warner Stadium

      Bleachers: Yes
      Lighted: Yes
      Setup: Adult
      Type: Game

      Notes: To Reserve: https://northwoodsleague.com/madison-mallards/field-rental/

  • Madison Parks ranks #1 in the nation for the number of basketball hoops per resident, come check out the hoops in your neighborhood! Most of the basketball courts are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you are planning a new league or tournament RESERVE ONLINE

    View all Basketball Courts

    • Warner Park - Basketball South

      Location: West of softball fields
      Surface: Asphalt
      Lighted: No
      Number of Courts: 1 full

    • Warner Park - Basketball Troy Dr

      Location: Troy Drive
      Surface: Asphalt
      Lighted: Yes
      Number of Courts: 2 full

  • BEACH NEWS
    Tenney Park Beach Area is CLOSED for 2024 - A new lakeside shelter is coming to Tenney Park beach! While work is underway this year, a construction safety zone with temporary fencing is in place and the adjacent playground and beach are closed. Due to the construction safety zone, we are unable to access the beach area with equipment for maintenance and no water quality testing will be done this summer at this location.  Look for a new reservable shelter opening in 2025.  See Tenney Park Beach Project, for more information. 

    Spring Harbor Beach - Possible access interruptions - Due to construction work on Mendota Drive, access to Spring Harbor Beach may be limited or interrupted through July. See Mendota Drive to learn more about this City of Engineering project. 

    BEACH SEASON
    Beach swimming season is typically Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. This is when PHMDC tests the lake water quality and Parks staff clean and maintain designated beaches. Swimming ropes are provided at a number of the beaches. 

    RESTROOMS
    Beach restrooms are open daily approx. 11am to 7pm, Memorial Day through Labor Day. See RESTROOMS to view locations.  

    ACCESSIBILITY
    Thanks to funding provided by the Madison Parks Foundation, accessible beach mats are available at Bernie's and Vilas beaches. 

    LAKE WATER QUALITY
    Public Health Madison & Dane County performs lake water quality testing typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day. 

    Water quality test results are automatically posted on this page with "OK" or "CLOSED." If CLOSED, the beach area and park remain open but the water is closed for swimming. If OK, the water quality is approved for swimming, however, it does not mean a lifeguard is on duty. 

    RULES

    The following rules apply to designated beaches and beach areas.
    • No dogs are allowed on the sand or in the roped swim area.
    • Only US Coast Guard-approved lifejackets are allowed.
    • Alcohol is allowed at certain beaches, see Park Rules for further details.
    • Children under 5 years of age must be actively supervised (watching your child at all times and providing immediate assistance) by a caregiver 16 years of age or over.
    • Toys are allowed but the use of toys may be restricted for the safety of patrons.
    • The City of Madison is not responsible for lost or stolen articles. 
    • Boats are not allowed in the swim area. The swim area is defined by the outer buoys.
    • Fishing is not allowed in the swim area.

    View all Beaches

    • Warner Beach

      Public Health Water Testing:
      Closed
      Address: 1101 Woodward Dr.
      Restroom: Yes
      Drinking Water: Yes
      Parking: Parking Lot
      Amenities: Boat Ramp, Picnic Tables

      Swim Ropes: Yes
      Lifeguard: No

      Warner Beach Details

  • PIER REMOVAL DATES
    • Fishing piers (non-boat launch locations), plus Law Park will be removed starting Monday, October 14.
    • Boat launch piers (listed on this page) will be removed starting Thursday, October 31. 
    • Exact removal dates depend on the weather, staffing priorities and other factors. 

    A daily or annual permit is required year-round at designated sites to launch a motorboat, sailboat, iceboat, canoe, kayak, or ATVs. Piers are available from spring through fall. Installation and removal are dependent on the weather and lake conditions.  

    • LAKE MONONA: Law, Olbrich, Olin 
    • LAKE MENDOTA: Marshall, Spring Harbor, Tenney, Warner 

    2025 Fees

    Daily $8
    Annual - Dane County Resident $50
    Annual - Non-Resident $60
    Annual - Dane County Senior (65+) & Disabled $25
    Annual - Non-Res Senior (65+) & Disabled $30
    Military/Veteran $25
    Duplicate/Replacement $20

    PURCHASE PERMIT
    2024 permit is valid through March 31, 2025. 
    2025 permit is available for purchase starting Nov. 1 and is valid through March 31, 2026. 

    Lake Access Permit

    • A daily or annual permit is required year-round to launch a motorboat, sailboat, iceboat, canoe, kayak, or ATV.
    • See Ordinance 8.215 for details.
    • Purchase permit ONLINE or by calling during regular office hours. 
    • Iron rangers are NOT available for onsite cash purchasing. 
    • The permit is valid for the issue year through March 31 of the following year.
    • Permits for the following year may be purchased starting November 1 of the previous year. 
    • The permit should be displayed on the inside driver's side windshield. 
    • The permit is valid at designated launch sites throughout Dane County. MAP 

    Olbrich Boat Launch, Boaters Advised to Use Caution 
    Boaters are advised to use caution navigating the narrowed channel where the Starkweather Creek meets Lake Monona due to low lake levels and creek sediment. Channel markers are installed by Dane County Land and Water Resources to assist boaters. Boaters may consider launching at alternate sites such as Olin, Tonyawatha or Winnequah. Lake Access permit holder may use any of the designated launch sites throughout Dane County. 

    Launch Area Parking Rules and Tips (Ordinance 8.16)

    • Long stalls are for parking vehicles with trailers only. 
    • Regular-size stalls are for parking vehicles with no trailer only. 
    • Parking on the grass is prohibited.
    • When the launch parking lot is full, you must find an alternative launch site
    • Violators are subject to a citation. 

    View all Boat Launches

    • Warner Park - Boat Launch

      Lake Access Permit Required: Yes

      Notes: 1201 Woodward Drive
  • Madison Parks offers various locations to launch a canoe or kayak and is allowed at all of Madison Parks motorboat launch sites. Additionally, the parks listed below have a specially designated area for launch.

    If you are looking to store your kayak or canoe in a park, please visit the storage webpage.
      View all Canoe & Kayak Launch Sites

  • Watercraft Storage Spaces 

    Explore Madison's beautiful lakes, rivers, and creeks by paddle and store your canoe, kayak or paddleboard on the shores of your favorite park. All storage racks are outdoors and uncovered. The annual storage period begins each year on April 1 and ends on March 15 of the following year.
     
    How to Reserve:
    • You may be placed on our waitlist at no charge by calling (608) 266-4711 or EMAIL. Please include your name, phone number, email address, and any order of preferences on storage location.
    • Current users can renew their watercraft storage yearly in late winter/early spring and no later than March 15.
    • As spaces become available, those on the waitlist will be contacted after April 1 and offered the opportunity to reserve a space.  
    2025 Fees
     
    City of Madison Resident - Annual, single watercraft $135
    City of Madison Resident - Annual, 2 watercraft, same space (100# max) $200
    Non-resident - Annual, single watercraft $260
    Non-resident - Annual, 2 watercraft, same space (100# max) $380
    (fees include tax)
    Watercraft storage rules include:
    • Watercraft must not exceed 100 pounds, 18' length, 42" width or 24" height.
    • Storage is for permitted watercraft only. No personal property or other watercraft may be kept on racks for any length of time.
    • Watercraft must be secured to the boat storage rack. The owner accepts all liability for theft or damage to their property.
    • Parks Staff reserves the right to cut any lock and remove any watercraft, under any condition it deems necessary for the function of the boat storage program.
    • View all 2024 Agreement and Rules. 2025 Agreement coming soon. 
    Additional storage may be available at the following: View all Canoe & Kayak Storage

  • Dog Park News

    • Warner Park - small dog area OPEN -  A large tree fell across the fence separating the small dog area. Due to the recent rains and ground conditions, removal of the trees by City arborists was delayed. The trees are now removed and fencing is temporarily repaired to allow the small dog park area to reopen. (updated June 26, 2024)

    While leashed dogs are allowed in most Madison parks (see dog-prohibited areas), we also offer 9 fenced, off-leash dog park areas. Three of the locations, Odana School, Warner and Sycamore, also provide a separate small-dog fenced area. 

    2025 Fees

    Daily $8
    Annual $43
    Annual Senior (65+) & Disabled $20
    Annual Military/Veteran (New!) $20
    Replacement $20
    PURCHASE PERMIT
    • 2024 permit is valid through December 31, 2024. 
    • 2025 permit is available for purchase starting Nov. 1, 2024 and is valid from the time of purchase through December 31, 2025.
    • REQUIRED A daily or annual Dog Permit is required.
      • The 2024 permit is valid through December 31, 2024.
      • The 2025 permit is available for purchase starting November 1 and is valid from the time of purchase through December 31, 2025. 
      • A permit is required in order to bring your dog to any park, off-leash and on-leash, where a dog is allowed. See Dog Free Park for exceptions. 
      • The dog permit is part of the Cooperative Dog Park Program and also valid for use in Dane County Parks, City of Sun Prairie parks, and City of Middleton parks.
      • Purchase a daily or annual permit ONLINE or by calling (608)266-4711.
    • REQUIRED A dog license is required for ALL visiting dogs. City of Madison residents may purchase through the City of Madison Treasury Office.
      • Dogs visiting from other areas are always welcome with proper licenses and/or vaccinations from your town/municipality. Be prepared to show proof if asked by a Park Ranger.
      • A dog license is ONLY available after a veterinarian administers a rabies vaccination within 30 days after the dog reaches 4 months. Dogs under 5 months of age or without proper vaccinations, are therefore not licensed and are PROHIBITED.
    • REQUIRED Dogs must remain on a leash to/from your vehicle to the inside of the dog park area.
    • PROHIBITED AREAS
      • Dogs are not allowed in any conservation park, near playgrounds, designated beaches, athletic fields, in or near park shelters, and a few other notable locations. See Dog Free Parks for a complete list of locations.
      • During the winter dogs are not permitted on designated cross-country ski trails. See Cross-Country Skiing for locations.
    • Bring Your Own Water Sharing water is not recommended and can lead to parasites and disease transmission. DO NOT LEAVE WATER OR WATER BOWLS. 
    WARNER PARK LAGOON Unlike the water at public beaches, the water in the lagoon at Warner Park is not tested by Public Health Madison & Dane County. Always check the conditions before letting your dog in the water. LEARN MORE 
    On July 13, 2016 the Board of Park Commissioners approved the Policy and Guidelines for Off-Leash Dog Park Service Area Standards within the Madison Park System with Attachment A. The Policy is intended to guide the Parks Division in planning new off-leash dog park (exercise) areas and to set standards for responding to requests for the creation of off-leash dog park (exercise) areas in the Madison Parks system. 

    View all Dog Off-Leash Parks

    • Warner Park - Dog Off-Leash Park

      Location: 2301 Sheridan Dr.
      Bag Dispenser: Yes
      Benches: Yes
      Fountain: No
      Fencing: Yes
      Shelter: No
      OPEN

      Notes: Approx. 8.5 acres. Water in the lagoon is not tested by Public Health. Always check conditions before letting your dog in the water. More info: https://www.publichealthmdc.com/environmental-health/beaches-lakes-pools/blue-green-algae-precautions
  • Madison Parks offers seasonal and year-round fishing piers. Year-round locations include Brittingham Park (near shelter), Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park, South (School Road), Olbrich Park (Starkweather Creek), and Spring Harbor Park. 

    An accessible pier is located in Vilas Park, on Lake Wingra and at Warner Park, on the Warner Park lagoon.  

    Wisconsin residents aged 16 years old or older need a fishing license to fish in any waters of the state. Nonresidents aged 16 years old or older need a nonresident fishing license to fish in Wisconsin waters with hook and line. Visit the Wisconsin DNR website for more information.

    Every year, the first consecutive Saturday and Sunday in June and the third Saturday and Sunday in January, are designated as Free Fishing Weekends throughout the state of Wisconsin. Residents and nonresidents of all ages can fish without a fishing license (and trout stamps) over these two days.  Visit WI DNR
     
    MESSAGE FROM PUBLIC HEALTH MADISON & DANE COUNTY: Eating fish can be a delicious, low-cost, and nutritious meal. However, eating certain fish can also be harmful because they may contain mercury, PCBs, or PFAS. See PHMDC for more information. 
    View all Fishing

  • Many of the football fields are programmed with youth and adult league play. If you would like to reserve a field or facility, please call the Athletic Scheduler at (608) 266-4711.  Find out more about Athletic Field Reservations.

    Fields, open or closed?
    If a field reservation is canceled, a notification is emailed to the user who made the field reservation. Notifications are sent by 2:00 pm Monday through Friday and by 9:00 am on weekends and holidays. 

    View all Football Fields

    • Warner Park - Football

      Bleachers: Yes
      Lighted: Yes
      Setup: Adult
      Type: Game

      Notes: This location has goal posts.
  • Explore the many scenic trails and pathways throughout Madison Parks.  Year-round restrooms are available at Cherokee Marsh, North and Owen conservation parks. 

    MAPS
    Looking for a trail map for a particular park? A number of the individual park pages provide a trail map. Check out the "About This Park" section of your favorite park. Don't see a map? Let us know! 

    Dogs
    Most parks allow leashed & licensed dogs with a Dog Permit. However, dogs are prohibited in all conservation parks and a few other locations. See Dog Free Parks for more information. View all Hiking

  • No ice is ever 100% safe. As such, declaring an ice rink or lagoon open for skating is a big deal and a process to get us there. Always check the status online or by calling the Parks office before you head out onto the ice. Each rink and lagoon is separately listed on this webpage and updated as soon as information from the field is available. To help prevent extended closures due to damaged ice, rinks/lagoons will close if meltwater is visible on the surface. See Declaring a Rink or Lagoon as Open for more information. 

    Equipment Rentals and Concessions at Elver, Tenney & Vilas
    Three locations offer a staffed warming shelter with skate rentals and concessions when the rink or lagoon at that park is listed as open - Wednesday - Sunday only. Hours are subject to change. All winter activities are dependent on the weather and conditions. Opening day is to be determined.  

    Days of the Week Hours
    Wednesday - Friday 4-8pm
    Saturday 12-8pm
    Sunday 12-6pm
     
    Equipment Rentals Fee
    Figure & Hockey Skate - first hour
    Each additional hour    		 $6/Adult; $3/Youth (aged 15 or younger)
    $2/Adult or Youth
    Hockey Sticks $2/hr

    LOANER SKATES 
    Free-to-use skates are available at Olbrich, Warner and Westmorland Parks. Borrow a pair of ice skates to use while at the rink. Limited quantities and sizes are available from inside the warming shelter. Please wipe down and return before leaving the park. 

    EVENTS & GROUP PARTIES
    Attend a winter event open to the community or reserve a winter recreation party for your group. All winter activities depend on the weather and conditions and are subject to change.

    RESTROOMS
    Indoor and portable restrooms are provided at a number of parks. See the webpage for open locations. 

    PETS & BIKES
    Bikes and pets, including well-behaved dogs, are never allowed on any ice rink or lagoon.  See Dogs in Parks for locations where allowed. 

    A big thank you to our many volunteers and the ADOPT ICE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM! 

    View all Ice Skating

  • Open or Multipurpose Fields are reservable athletic fields with no game-specific design or limitations. Often used for soccer, ultimate, lacrosse or football, yet open to your imagination. Multipurpose Fields are located throughout the city and may be used on a first-come, first-served basis if not already reserved. RESERVE ONLINE

    SPECIALIZED FIELDS
    Specialized fields include soccer, cricket, ball diamonds - baseball or softball and both fenced and non-fenced, may be viewed on the individual pages. See the sidebar on the Athletics webpage. 

    View all Multipurpose Fields

    • Warner Park - Multipurpose Field

    • Warner Park - Multipurpose Field

  • Parking lots in parks are available for park programs or events during regular park hours: 4:00 am to 10:00 pm. 

    Parking Rules

    • Driving or parking motorized vehicles is not allowed on the grass or near a shelter and is subject to a citation.
    • Three-hour limit in all parks, as posted.
    • No parking after hours: 10pm to 4am. Overnight parking is not allowed. 
    • Conservation park hours are 4am until one hour after sunset
    • Follow all onsite parking regulation signs.
    • Violators are subject to a fine.
    Law Park: metered parking stalls
    The parking lot located on the eastern side of Law Park, commonly known as the Blair Lot, is a metered parking lot, enforced by City of Madison Parking Division between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. 
      View all Parking Lots

  • Picnic shelters, also called sun shelters, are smaller, open-air structures that provide a little shade and typically some seating. They do not protect from severe weather, such as lightning. A picnic shelter may be reserved or used on a first-come, first-served basis if not previously reserved. 

    • See SHELTER PRICES for 2025 rates.
    • BEFORE reserving, be sure to see Parks Projects. We are continually improving our park system and some of these improvements may impact a nearby shelter. 
    • RESERVE Three Ways
      • ONLINE
      • Calling (608)266-4711
      • In-person at the Parks administration office 
    • Full payment is due at the time of processing your reservation, along with any required permits.   
      • Credit card is the only accepted method of payment. 
    • Need to CANCEL? All reservations are subject to our standard cancelation policy. 
    • Opening day to reserve a park picnic shelter for the following year begins on the first business day in November. 
    • 2025 reservations are open as of Friday, November 1, 2024.
      • IMPORTANT: Canceling a reservation made on opening day will result in a 50% refund and must be submitted at least 11 or more days before the event date. No refunds are given if the request is submitted 10 days or fewer before the event. 
    RULES & TIPS
    • Madison Parks does not guarantee absolute privacy to any group.  Your reservation will reserve only the facility you are using, not the entire park or other facilities within the park. If you are interested in reserving the entire park, please visit Special Events.
    • Alcohol is permitted in most Madison Parks, as long as there is no glass. A handful of parks are alcohol-free and require a permit to bring alcohol. You must have a reservation to obtain an alcohol permit.
    • All picnic shelters are open year-round, however, if the picnic shelter has restrooms, these are open seasonally and closed for the winter typically October - April.
    • In the event of severe weather, picnic shelters are not lightening protection areas. Please seek an alternative location. 
    • Firearms or weapons are not permitted at any of the shelters. Violators may be considered trespassers and may be subject to forfeiture or arrest.
    • Park improvements and/or construction may be underway during the time of your reservation.  The City of Madison Parks Division makes every attempt to schedule around events and shelter reservations whenever possible, however, this is not a guarantee.  Please keep in mind improvements to parks and infrastructure continues throughout the year.  Please see Park Projects for park improvement that may impact a nearby shelter.

    View all Picnic Shelters

    • Warner Park Picnic Shelter

      Location: Northwest of Tennis Courts
      Restrooms: No
      Lighted: No
      Notes: Closer to the tennis courts.

    • Warner Park Picnic Shelter

      Location: Southwest of Tennis Courts
      Restrooms: No
      Lighted: No
      Notes: Closer to the dog park.

  • With more than 175 playgrounds throughout Madison, you are never too far from a playground. According to the Trust for Public Land, Madison ranks #1 in the nation for the number of playgrounds available. The traditional swings and slides are always an option, as are new play elements and fully accessible playgrounds. 

    PLAYGROUNDS FOR EVERYONE
    Through the Madison Parks Foundation initiative, Madison Parks offers accessible playgrounds in Brittingham, Elver, Rennebohm and Warner parks.  An accessible playground is anticipated in Reindahl Park in the near future.

    PLAYGROUND REPLACEMENTS: HOW AND WHEN
    Madison Parks is responsible for maintaining more than 175 playgrounds and began a system-wide replacement initiative in 2013. With current staff and funding resources, replacements are scheduled to continue through 2033. Playgrounds are routinely inspected to assess the equipment's conditions and repair any safety concerns. Based on the age of the equipment and current conditions, each is given an audit score. The number of playgrounds replaced each year is based on budget allocations, staffing resources, and using the current playground audit score for prioritization. 

    REPLACEMENT PROCESS: NEIGHBORHOOD INPUT
    At the start of the replacement process, notices are sent to the District Alder, neighborhood association representatives, and surrounding residential addresses. Information is also posted to the project website. Generally, two public meetings are held to review surfacing and equipment options and make final selections.

    If you have questions about a specific playground or see something broken, please let us know. 

    View all Playgrounds

    • Warner Park - Playground

    • Warner Park - Playground

  • Seasonal Restrooms
    Restrooms throughout the park system open approximately mid/late April and close for the season starting the first week in October. The systemwide process to open/close restrooms takes several weeks depending on the weather and staffing. 

    This page lists restrooms OPEN daily, approximately 10am to 8pm. All other restrooms are CLOSED. 

    Open Year-Round (does not include popular winter recreation locations, TBD)

    • Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park - North
    • Elver Park enclosed shelter
    • Owen Conservation Park
    • Tenney Park at the John Wall Family Pavilion
    • Warner Park boat launch 

    View all Restrooms

    • Warner Park Boat Launch

      Location: 1201 Woodward Dr.
      OPEN

      Notes: open year-round
  • Many of the Madison Parks are located in ideal locations for sight seeing.  Enjoy the view! View all Scenic Overlooks

  • 2025 Shelter and Pavilion Reservations

    • 2025 reservations are open as of Friday, November 1.
    • Reservations may be made online, by phone or in person at Parks Lakeside Offices.
    • See 2025 Special Event Reservations for unavailable dates and locations.

    Madison Parks offers larger shelters and pavilions perfect for a casual event, staff retreat or celebration. Most are available to reserve from mid-April through mid-October, with a few exceptions as noted below. The Shelter Reservations Guide provides details on seating capacities, and amenities such as outlets, fireplaces, and picnic tables. Reservations may be made online, in person or by phone. Please follow these helpful steps when making a reservation. 

    STEPS TO RESERVE A SHELTER
    1. Review RESERVATION POLICIES and SHELTER PRICES.
    2. Review Parks Projects. As we continually improve our park system, some projects may impact a nearby shelter. 
    3. Reserve one of three ways. Full payment is due at the time of processing. 
      • ONLINE - credit card only
      • Calling (608) 266-4711 - credit card only
      • In-person at the Parks Lakeside Offices - credit card, cash or check (made payable to City Treasurer)

    Important Notes: 

    • Any required permits, such as amplified sound, or alcohol are required at the time of processing.    
    • All reservations are subject to our standard cancelation policy. 
    • Opening day to reserve a park shelter for the following year begins on the first business day in November. 
    • 2025 reservations opening day is Friday, November 1, 2024.
      • IMPORTANT: Canceling a reservation made on opening day will result in a 50% refund and must be submitted at least 11 or more days before the event date. No refunds are given if the request is submitted 10 days or fewer before the event. 
    • Dogs are prohibited inside a shelter or other City building. 
    • Picnic shelters may be reserved online or by calling -OR- if not reserved, are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Day of signage is posted at the shelter.
    • Madison Parks does not guarantee absolute privacy to any group.  Your reservation will reserve only the facility you are using, not the entire park or other park amenities. If you are interested in reserving the entire park, please visit Special Events.
    • Alcohol is permitted in most Madison Parks. Glass is never allowed. There are a handful of alcohol-free parks. In these locations, if you would like to bring alcohol, you will need an alcohol permit, which may be obtained when placing your reservation. An alcohol permit, without a reservation, is not given. 
    • Public improvements and/or construction may be underway during the time of your reservation.  The City of Madison Parks Division makes every attempt to schedule around events and shelter reservations whenever possible, however, this is not a guarantee. Please keep in mind improvements to parks and infrastructure continue throughout the year.  Please visit Park Projects for a partial list of major capital improvement projects.
    • Firearms or weapons are not permitted at any of the shelters. Violators may be considered trespassers and may be subject to forfeiture or arrest.

    Open Schedule Exceptions 

    View all Large Shelters

    • Warner Park

      Address: 2930 N. Sherman Ave
      Capacity: This is an open-air shelter with covered-patio.
      Restrooms: In shelter
      Water: Available in shelter
      Parking: Parking lot


      Shelter Details: Warner Park

    • Warner Park Beach Shelter

      Address: 1101 Woodward Dr.
      Capacity: This is an open-air shelter.
      Restrooms: In shelter
      Water: Available in shelter
      Parking: Parking lot


      Shelter Details: Warner Park Beach Shelter

  • McPike Park
    The Irwin A. and Robert D. Goodman Skatepark at McPike Park is free and open daily during regular park hours - 4am to 10pm. Lighting is scheduled from dusk until 10pm from April 15 to October 15. 

    Skateboards, in-line skates, and roller skates are allowed. Before visiting, please review the SKATEPARK RULES.

    History of the Skatepark at McPike Park 

    Warner Park
    Skateboarding options expanded in 2021 with the addition of the all-wheel spot at Warner Park 

    Aldo Leopold Park
    The pump track is typically used with a mountain-type bike and could also be used by skateboarding. See Aldo Leopold Park. 

    Please report any damage or debris to the Skatepark surfaces to the Parks Division at 608-235-0448.

    View all Skate Parks

    • Warner Park Skate Park

  • Slacklining or hammocking in a park is allowed following the guidelines below at specific times, on specific trees, and never in a conservation park. Always keep in mind, Park Rangers have the authority to remove or order the removal of any slackline or hammock which they deem as harmful to the tree or as a danger to the safety of park users. The best advice, WHEN IN DOUBT, DON'T.
     

    Dos and Don'ts

    Tethering to trees for the purpose of slacklining or hammocking is allowed following these guidelines:
    • DO: Sunrise to 30 minutes prior to sunset
    • DO: Temporary only and may never be left unattended or overnight
    • DO: Only on trees greater than 1' in diameter and 4.5'
    • DO: Tree protect is used at connection points
    • DON'T: Never tether on Oak, Hickory or Birch trees
    • DON'T: Never in any conservation park 
    For more information, see POLICY & GUIDELINES
     

    Proper Tree Protection

    Tree protection is required for tethering any equipment to help prevent damage to the tree's bark. Carpet, foam pads or towels make good protection. Make sure the fabric padding completely encircle the tree at the connection points and is a minimum of ΒΌ" thick by 10" wide. For more information and examples, see  TREE PROTECTION
     

    Prohibited Trees

    Never tether on an oak, hickory or birch tree. When in doubt, don't For more information, see TREE IDENTIFICATION


    When in Doubt, Don't 

    Park Rangers have the authority to remove or order the removal of any slackline or hammock which they deem as harmful to the tree or as a danger to the safety of park users. 

    View all Slacklining and Hammocking

  • Madison Parks offers many hills perfect for winter sledding. With a good snow base, this page offers suggested sledding locations. We do not monitor or maintain sledding hills.

    Elver Park had sleds available to rent or purchase during the open season. The hill is fairly steep and is lit in the evening. Sledding hills are not monitored or maintained. 

    Warming Shelter and Sleds at Elver
    Typically if the Elver Park ski trails are listed, the warming shelter at Elver Park is open and staffed Wednesday through Sunday only. Concessions and sleds are available to rent or purchase unless otherwise posted in the alert. Hours are subject to change. All winter activities are dependent on the weather and conditions. 
     

    Days of the Week Hours
    Wednesday - Friday 4-8pm
    Saturday 12-8pm
    Sunday 12-6pm
     
    Sled Type Fee
    Rent  $2/per hour
    Purchase $20/each

    View all Sledding

    • Warner Park - Sledding

      Warming House: No
      Concessions: No
  • Experience winter in Madison Parks like never before with snowshoeing!  This silent sport is a fantastic way to explore many of our parks during the winter months and is easy to learn.

    Warming Shelter and Equipment Rentals at Door Creek, Elver & Vilas
    If trails are listed as open, the warming shelter at Door Creek, Elver and Vilas parks are staffed Wednesday - Sunday* for concessions and snowshoe equipment, unless otherwise posted in the alert. 
    Days of the Week Hours
    Wednesday - Friday 4-8pm
    Saturday 12-8pm
    Sunday 12-6pm

    *Hours are subject to change. All winter activities are dependent on the weather and conditions. Opening day is to be determined.
     
    Equipment Rentals  Fee
    Snowshoes - first hour
    Each additional hour    		 $5/Adult; $2/Youth (aged 15 or younger)
    $2/Adult or Youth
    Snowshoes - all day, per day
    Each additional day    		 $25/Adult; $10/Youth*
    $15/Adult; $5/Youth

    SNOWSHOEING TIPS 
    • Designated snowshoe trails are offered in the following parks. 
      •  *NEW* Cherokee Marsh South - see MAP
      • Door Creek Park - See MAP
      • Elver Park - see MAP
    • Snowshoeing is allowed anywhere in a general park with good snow cover - typically about 4" or more, except on a marked cross-country ski trail. 
    • Snowshoeing is allowed in any trail in a conservation park, except Owen, and Turville Point, which are designated ski trails. 
    • DO NOT snowshoe off-trail in a conservation park. 
      • Snowshoeing, hiking, and skiing off-trail can destroy snow tunnels used by native small rodents (deer mice, shrews) by the trampling effect. These small mammals are an important part of the wetland and grassland ecology in our conservation parks. Destruction of these tunnel networks makes small mammals more vulnerable to predation.
    • When in doubt, it's always best to stay on a trail.
      • Our trail systems are designed to facilitate controlled public access while protecting environmentally sensitive areas and providing a quiet refuge for wildlife away from people. Disruption of wildlife by human activity during the winter puts additional stress on them during a challenging time for their survival. 
    View all Snowshoeing

  • Warner Park offers a specialized field lined for soccer with lighting and bleacher seating. This field is uniquely managed to provide a better playing surface. Higher quality mowing at a lower height to promote better underfoot conditions and using a specialized turf species and irrigation, as well as fertilizer, aerification, weed prevention and watering to promote a denser turf canopy.

    Multipurpose fields, used often for soccer are open fields with no game-specific design or amenity. These are available throughout the city on a first-come, first-served basis or reserved for a lesser fee than a specialized field. See Multipurpose Field for more information. 

    View all Soccers

    • Warner Park - Soccer #1

      Bleachers: Yes
      Lighted: Yes
      Setup: Adult
      Type: Game

    • Warner Park - Soccer #3

      Bleachers: No
      Lighted: No
      Setup: Adult
      Type: Game

    • Warner Park - Soccer #4

      Bleachers: No
      Lighted: No
      Setup: Adult
      Type: Game

    • Warner Park - Soccer #5

      Bleachers: No
      Lighted: No
      Setup: Adult
      Type: Game

  • Many of the softball diamonds are programmed with youth and adult league play. See Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR) for league information.

    Softball Fields: RESERVE ONLINE 
    Backstop: RESERVE ONLINE 


    Fields, open or closed?
    If a field reservation is canceled, a notification is emailed to the user who made the field reservation. Notifications are sent by 2:00 pm Monday through Friday and by 9:00 am on weekends and holidays. 

    View all Softball Fields

    • Warner Park Softball #1

      Bleachers: Yes
      Lighted: Yes
      Setup: Adult
      Type: Game

    • Warner Park Softball #2

      Bleachers: Yes
      Lighted: Yes
      Setup: Adult
      Type: Game

    • Warner Park Softball #3

      Bleachers: Yes
      Lighted: Yes
      Setup: Adult
      Type: Game

    • Warner Park Softball #5

      Bleachers: Yes
      Lighted: Yes
      Setup: Adult
      Type: Game

  • Madison Parks offers nearly 100 tennis courts, many are dual-stripped for tennis and pickleball.  While the courts are available for individuals on a first-come, first-served basis, ALL LEAGUES AND LESSONS MUST RESERVE IN ADVANCE. RESERVE ONLINE

    Practice Wall Locations
    Bordner, Brittingham, Elver, Olbrich, Tenney, Waunona and Westmorland

    Vilas Park Tennis Courts (as of April 30, 2024)
    Due to the deteriorating conditions and safety concerns, the Vilas Park tennis courts are closed. 

    View all Tennis Courts

    • Warner Park - Tennis Court

      Location: West of softball fields
      Surface: Asphalt
      Lighted: No
      Number of Courts: 3

  • Most of the volleyball courts are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.  If you are planning a new league or tournament RESERVE ONLINE
     

    Warner
    Warner Park

    View all Volleyball Courts

    • Warner Park - Volleyball

      Location: By park shelter
      Surface: Sand
      Lighted: No
      Number of Courts: 2

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