Tenney Park
Madison, WI 53703 Directions
Acres: 38.12
With its friendly atmosphere and impressive display of storybook scenery Tenney Park serves as a place to socialize, a peaceful recluse, and a place to just be. It's an excellent place to watch boats launch, seagulls flock, let the children play at the park, or just catch up on some reading. Under the narrative trees share a picnic on the plush, green grass while enjoying the seemingly endless horizon of Lake Mendota. Tenney Park is also a fantastic place to toss out a line for fishing, swim at the beach, or play a game of one of your favorite sports such as soccer, softball, or volleyball. Take stroll down the winding paths by foot, by bicycle, or rollerblades. In the chilly winter months, after gliding across the frozen lagoon, rejuvenate with a snack in the warming shelter. With its beauty and versatility in every season, this historic park is sure to be a favorite throughout the year!
Alternate addresses: 402 N. Thornton Ave. (shelter); 1330 Sherman Ave.; 1501 Sherman Ave. (boat launch parking)
Alcohol is prohibited in this park. For more information, see the Madison General Ordinance 8.24. In order to have alcohol in this park, you must have an alcohol permit, which may be obtained through the Parks Administrative Office.
In 2023, the City of Madison Engineering Division installed a roughly 25 kW solar photovoltaic system at the John Wall Family Pavilion at Tenney Park. The system consists of roof-mounted modules and will produce an estimated 30,000 kWh per year and will generate 80% of the building's electricity usage.
Bird & Nature Adventures: Explore this park with a free, volunteer-led, guided nature walk offered monthly and year-round.
Tenney Locks
The Tenney Locks are owned and operated by Dane County Parks and typically open May through October. Please see Dane County Tenney Locks for a schedule and permit fee information.
The John Wall Family Pavilion is used as a City of Madison polling location and during elections is closed to all other activities.
At this Park
Athletic Fields & Courts
Most athletic fields and courts are available first-come, first-served. You must reserve fields and courts online for leagues, lessons, or tournaments.
Basketball
Full Courts: 1
Definitions: Full Court = 50' x 84' and Full Small Court = 44' x 74'
Multipurpose Field
2 fields, 1 backstop
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. They may be used on a first-come, first-served basis if not already reserved.
Tennis & Pickleball
Courts: 3, asphalt, lighted
Volleyball
Courts: 1, sand
By beach
Beach
A large, popular beach on Lake Mendota. Restrooms are open daily approximately 11:00am to 7:00pm, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Swim Ropes: Yes
Shoreline on Lake Mendota.
There are no lifeguards on duty.
Public Health Madison & Dane County monitors water quality from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Check beach water quality.
Beach Shelter
Please review reservation policies, shelter prices, and current park projects before reserving.
Boat Launch
Access Lake Mendota.
A Lake Access Permit is required.
Canoe and Kayak Launch
Access Lake Mendota.
Canoe and Kayak Storage
Store your canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. All storage racks are outdoors and uncovered.
Fishing
People 16 years and older need a fishing license from the Wisconsin DNR.
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. Learn more at Public Health Fish Advisories.
Frozen Lagoon
Closed for Season
Check the status before heading out. If a rink is listed as closed, do not go on the ice.
Hockey Rink
Closed for Season
Check the status before heading out. If a rink is listed as closed, do not go on the ice.
John Wall Family Pavilion
Please review reservation policies, shelter prices, and current park projects before reserving.
Playground
Two playgrounds.
With 160+ playgrounds throughout Madison, you are never too far from a playground. Playground design and amenities vary by park.
Restrooms at Beach Shelter
Open
In 2026, restrooms are open April 25 – early October.
Restrooms at John Wall Family Pavilion
Open
In 2026, restrooms are open April 25 – early October.