By Lori C. Adler
Reporter

June 1-2 is Free Fun Weekend in Wisconsin, and what that means is Wisconsin residents and visitors alike can get out and enjoy the state’s natural resources without cost. What a great way to start the summer!

This weekend, all state parks and state forests will waive entrance fees. Plus no trail passes for state trails are needed. This will also include some cooperatively run trails as well. In addition, many state parks and recreation areas throughout Wisconsin will have special programming for this weekend.

ATV/UTV public trails are included in the free weekend too. No trail passes will be required for ATV/UTV riding, and even those with vehicles not registered in Wisconsin can ride for free as all non-resident trail passes are also waived. All ATV rules still apply though, including the education certificate requirement for anyone born in 1988 or later.

To make the weekend more fun, no license is required for fishing anywhere in Wisconsin (not just in state parks or forests) this weekend. This includes inland trout and Great Lakes trout and salmon. All rules and regulations regarding species, size and quantity, however, do still apply. Some parks around the state will be offering free fishing clinics and free fishing equipment loaning as well.

There are many opportunities in the Northwoods to take advantage of the free weekend. In the immediate vicinity is the Northern Highland state forest, but with just a short drive, the opportunities open up. Visits to Rib Mountain, Council Grounds, or Copper Falls state parks are only an hour or two away. Also within a short drive are Flambeau River and Peshtigo River state forests and Menominee River state recreation area. For more information on local and statewide events and recreational opportunities, please visit www.dnr.wi.gov/news/features/.