McCarthy Youth and Conservation Park Announces Opening of New Playground
McCarthy Youth and Conservation Park, a 348-acre recreation area, now features a brand-new playground designed to encourage outdoor play and exploration. The playground construction is officially complete, and families are invited to enjoy this exciting new addition to the park.
Located on the ancestral homeland of the Ho-Chunk people, McCarthy Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, group camping, equestrian and snowshoe trails, cross-country skiing, sledding, and picnicking. The park is also home to a stunning prairie and wetland restoration that supports migrating waterfowl and grassland birds.
The vision for the park began in 1974 with a generous 180-acre land donation from Russell and Ella McCarthy, who hoped it would become “a place where kids from the city could learn about nature.” Today, that vision continues to grow—thanks to ongoing partnerships, including one with the Ho-Chunk Nation, which is developing interpretive sites throughout the park.
With the new playground now open, McCarthy Youth and Conservation Park continues to be a welcoming space for families, youth groups, and individuals to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
Address
4841 County HWY TT
Cottage Grove, WI 53527
Amenities
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Archery Hunting (permit required)
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Camping (group site)
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Cross-country Skiing (groomed trail)
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Drinking Water
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Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
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Equestrian Trails
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Foraging Permitted
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Hiking Trails
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Multiple Parking Areas (including plowed parking in winter)
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Picnic Area with outdoor grill
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Play Area (newly opened playground!)
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Restrooms (vault/pit style)
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Shelter (with electricity)
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Sledding Hill
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Snowshoeing Trails
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Designated trail
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Undesignated trail
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Hours & Admission
Open from 5am-10PM with no entrance fees
Photo Credit: Dane County LWRD
