Recreation
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History
The first people Shortly after the glaciers retreated to their icy, Canadian home, humans moved into the area that is now Governor Dodge State Park. Just as the park’s scenic hills and valleys provide you refuge from over-crowded cities, they once…
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Nature
Wildlife Governor Dodge State Park abounds with wildlife from the tiniest shrews up to the big white-tailed deer. Deer, wild turkeys, ruffed grouse, red and grey fox, beaver, woodchucks and muskrats are common park inhabitants. More than 150…
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Hunting
Hunting and trapping are allowed in the open areas of the park during the Wisconsin state parks hunting and trapping time frame. Trapping is not permitted in closed areas as noted on the park hunting map or within 100 yards of any designated use…
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Fishing
The park’s two man-made lakes offer excellent fishing. Species include bass, walleye, muskie and panfish. Fishing licenses are required and may be purchased at local bait shops. Consult the current fishing regulations for special size and bag…
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Water Recreation
Swimming Swimming beaches are located on both lakes. Bathhouses are found near both beaches. The beaches are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. No lifeguards are on duty. Boating, canoeing and kayaking There are launching ramps on both Cox Hollow and…
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Winter Recreation
Ice fishing Two lakes in the park offer ice fishing opportunities throughout the winter. A bait shop is conveniently located nearby. The park does not monitor ice conditions or make recommendations as to the safety of the ice. Sledding Sledding…
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Concessions and Rentals
The Dodgeville Kiwanis Club operates a concession stand at the Cox Hollow beach area. The stand offers boat and canoe rentals, soda, coffee, ice cream, pizza, ice, charcoal, T-shirts and miscellaneous snack items. The concession is open daily…
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Horseback Riding
The park has 22 miles of bridle trails providing riders an unequaled view of Governor Dodge's rich and varied landscape. Bring your own horse, as the park does not provide rentals. Day-use parking is available, as well as an equestrian campground…
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Camping
Seasonal Water Systems: At Governor Dodge State Park, showers and drinking water are available from Memorial Day weekend to Oct. 1 depending on the weather. Potable water can be obtained from the park office to fill jugs between Oct. 1, 2023 and…
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Biking
The park has 8 miles of challenging off-road bicycle trails. State Trail Passes are required to use the bike trails. Trails are open May 1 to Nov. 15 unless posted otherwise. Meadow Valley and Mill Creek trails are designated off-road biking…