Warner Park
![Warner Park](/https/www.cityofmadison.com/parks/images/parks/1368.jpg)
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 Details
Distinctive for its natural beauty and expansive tracts of land, Warner Park hosts a variety of social happenings such as charity fun run/walk events and community festivals. The colorful shelter is popular for reunions and parties, while other notable attractions include the off-leash dog park, beach with reservable shelter (electricity is available with a reservation), and frequented boat launch with year-round open restrooms. Other important facilities in this park include the Warner Park Community Recreation Center (WPCRC), with its mission to provide innovative growth and enrichment opportunities for the Madison community to connect people of all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds. Warner Park is also home to the Madison Mallards ball games.
PARKING
Parking is not allowed on the grass or along yellow-painted curbs. When the parking lot is full, which is often the case during Madison Mallards home games, you will need to find alternative parking areas.
Park Highlights
Bird & Nature Outing: Explore this park with a FREE, guided nature walk offered monthly.At this Park
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Baseball Field
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.
View all Baseball Fields
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.
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Warner Stadium
Bleachers: Yes
Lighted: Yes
Setup: Adult
Type: Game
Notes: To Reserve: https://northwoodsleague.com/madison-mallards/field-rental/
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Basketball Court
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
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Warner Park - Basketball Troy Dr
Location: Troy Drive
Surface: Asphalt
Lighted: Yes
Number of Courts: 2 full
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Beach
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
The following rules apply to designated beaches and beach areas.
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- 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.
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Warner Beach
Public Health Water Testing:Address: 1101 Woodward Dr.Closed
Restroom: Yes
Drinking Water: Yes
Parking: Parking Lot
Amenities: Boat Ramp, Picnic Tables
Swim Ropes: Yes
Lifeguard: No
Warner Beach Details -
Boat Launch
Closure and Access Notice
Olin Park Boat Launch
- Saturday, August 10: CLOSED due to a permitted event and will reopen at 4am on Sunday, August 11.
- Sunday, August 11: OPEN with access from the service road at Turville Point Conservation Park, 1202 Olin-Turville Court. John Nolen Drive will be closed 9am to 3pm due to Ride the Drive.
Accessing the Lakes
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
2024 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
2024 permit is valid through March 31, 2025.
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.
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Warner Park - Boat Launch
Lake Access Permit Required: Yes
Notes: 1201 Woodward Drive
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Canoe & Kayak Launch Site
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 -
Canoe & Kayak Storage
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 31 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 will be able to renew their watercraft storage beginning in late winter/early spring each year and must renew by March 15.
- As spaces become available, those on the waitlist will be contacted after April 1 and given the opportunity to reserve a space.
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
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 Agreement Rules.
- Brittingham & Wingra Parks: Madison Boats
- Olbrich Park: Rutabaga Paddlesports
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Dog Off-Leash Park
Dog Park News
- Warner Park Dog Park - Access Change starting August 19 - the off-leash dog park area parking lot is under reconstruction starting August 19 and expected to continue through September. The main entrance to the fenced area will be closed. Access from the east will remain open. See Park Projects for more information. (updated August 6, 2024)
- 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.
2024 Fees
Daily $8 Annual $43 Annual Senior (65+) & Disabled $20 Annual Military/Veteran (New!) $20 Replacement $20 - 2023 permit is valid through December 31, 2023.
- 2024 permit is available for purchase starting Nov. 1, 2023 and is valid from the time of purchase through December 31, 2024.
- REQUIRED A daily or annual Dog Permit is required.
- The 2023 permit is valid through December 31, 2023.
- The 2024 permit is available for purchase starting November 1 and is valid from the time of purchase through December 31, 2024.
- 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 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 rabies vaccination is administered by a veterinarian within 30 days after the dog reaches 4 months of age. 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
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Fishing
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
An accessible pier is located in Vilas Park, on Lake Wingra. From WI DNR: Lake Wingra is a 336-acre lake with a maximum depth of 14 feet. Fish include Musky, Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Walleye.
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. -
Football Field
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.
View all Football Fields
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.-
Warner Park - Football
Bleachers: Yes
Lighted: Yes
Setup: Adult
Type: Game
Notes: This location has goal posts.
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Hiking
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 -
Ice Skating
Ice Skating in Madison Parks
No ice is ever 100% safe. As such, declaring an ice rink or lagoon open for skating is a big deal and it is a process to get us there. Here's what you should know about ice skating in Madison Parks.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: 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.
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.ICE DEPTH: Ice depth is critically important. You may see a human on a rink or lagoon and think it must be open. Not always true. Skating on a rink or lagoon before declared open is unsafe and can damage the ice, slowing the grooming process and opening. Staff measures the ice depth on designated rinks and lagoons in multiple spots to determine the best and most efficient grooming equipment.
GROOMING: Ice grooming is important for safety by creating a nice smooth skating surface. The grooming equipment used depends on the area and ice depth. Due to this, you may see staff using hand-held equipment (slower process) or big machines (faster process). While a human can skate on lesser ice depth, ice grooming equipment needs at least 5-6 inches of consistent ice depth to support the weight of the equipment.
NICE ICE: Several parks have a NiceRink® (including Elver, Goodman, Heritage Heights and Olbrich), which is an above-ground, framed liner filled with water that freezes quicker and stays frozen longer – ideally creating a longer skating season, however, this year's above-freezing temps have made these a challenge.
SNOW DELAY: In case you didn't know, Parks staff is responsible for priority snow removal areas before snow or ice grooming begins. These priority areas are roads, more than 400 bus stops, bike trails, sidewalks, and parking lots. We appreciate your patience and understanding as winter safety will always come before winter fun.
SPEAKING OF SNOW: After a snowfall, please do not attempt to move snow off a rink or lagoon. Did you know snow is a great insulator? If snow is improperly "removed" from an ice rink or lagoon it will melt the ice. This is why it is hugely important to allow time for Parks staff or the Adopt Ice program volunteers to properly remove the snow before skating.
RESTROOMS: See the webpage for open locations.
DOGS & BIKES: Are never allowed on any ice rink or lagoon.
A big thank you to our many volunteers and the ADOPT ICE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM!
View all Ice Skating
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Warner Park - Frozen Lagoon
Location: 2930 N. Sherman Ave.
Closed
More Information: Skating at Warner Park - Frozen Lagoon
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Multipurpose Field
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
View all Multipurpose Fields
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.-
Warner Park - Multipurpose Field
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Warner Park - Multipurpose Field
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Parking Lot
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.
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 Shelter
Picnic shelters are smaller, open-air structures that provide a little shade and typically some seating. They do not provide protection 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 2024 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 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.
- 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.
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Warner Park Picnic Shelter
Location: Northwest of Tennis Courts
Restrooms: No
Lighted: No
Notes: Closer to the tennis courts.
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Warner Park Picnic Shelter
Location: Southwest of Tennis Courts
Restrooms: No
Lighted: No
Notes: Closer to the dog park.
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Playground
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
View all Playgrounds
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.-
Warner Park - Playground
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Warner Park - Playground
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Recreation Center
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Restroom
OPEN RESTROOMS
Listed on this page are OPEN restrooms (daily 10am to 8pm). All other restrooms are CLOSED. All restrooms will open for the season on April 19.
Restrooms throughout the park system are open seasonally from approximately mid/late April through early to late October. The systemwide process of opening/closing restrooms takes several weeks and depends on the weather and staffing.
WINTER
Several parks offering winter recreation, also provide restrooms - indoor or portable, when the amenity is listed as open during the winter season. Please check Winter Fun for the status of winter recreation at a specific park.
YEAR-ROUND- Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park - North
- Elver Park enclosed shelter
- Owen Conservation Park
- Tenney Park at the John Wall Family Pavilion
- Warner Park boat launch
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Warner Park
Location: 2930 N. Sherman Ave
OPEN -
Warner Park Beach
Location: 1101 Woodward Dr.
OPEN -
Warner Park Boat Launch
Location: 1201 Woodward Dr.
OPEN
Notes: open year-round -
Warner Park Portable Restroom
Location: near soccer field
OPEN -
Warner Park Softball
OPEN
Notes: with athletic reservation
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Scenic Overlook
Many of the Madison Parks are located in ideal locations for sight seeing. Enjoy the view! View all Scenic Overlooks -
Shelter - Reservable
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- Review RESERVATION POLICIES and SHELTER PRICES.
- Review Parks Projects. As we continually improve our park system, some projects may impact a nearby shelter.
- 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.
- The availability of Gates of Heaven may be checked online however, you will need to call to make your reservation.
Open Schedule Exceptions
- Open year-round:
- Open mid-April through mid-November:
- John Wall Family Pavilion in Tenney Park
- Elver Park (enclosed shelter)
- Warner Park
- Olin Park (through October)
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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
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Skate Park
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
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Slacklining and Hammocking
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
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 ¼" 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'tPark 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 -
Sledding
Madison Parks offers many hills perfect for winter sledding. With a good snow base, here are a few suggested locations. Elver Park offers lighting in the evening, during the open season. Sledding hills are not monitored or maintained.
Warming Shelter and Sleds at Elver
If trails are listed as open, the warming shelter at Elver is staffed Wednesday - Sunday* for concessions and sleds - to rent or purchase, unless otherwise posted in the alert.Wednesday - Friday 4:00 - 8:00pm Saturday 12:00 - 8:00pm Sunday 12:00 - 6:00pm
*Hours are subject to change. All winter activities are dependent on the weather and conditions.
SledsRent $2/per hour Purchase $20 -
Warner Park - Sledding
Warming House: No
Concessions: No
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Snowshoeing
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 Elver & Vilas
If trails are listed as open, the warming shelter at Elver and Vilas parks are staffed Wednesday - Sunday* for concessions and snowshoe equipment, unless otherwise posted in the alert.Wednesday - Friday 4:00 - 8:00pm Saturday 12:00 - 8:00pm Sunday 12:00 - 6:00pm
*Hours are subject to change. All winter activities are dependent on the weather and conditions.
Equipment RentalsSnowshoes - first hour
Each additional hour$5/Adult; $2/Youth (aged 15 or younger)
$2/Adult or YouthSnowshoes - 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.
- 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.
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Soccer
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.
View all Soccers
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.-
Warner Park - Soccer #1
Bleachers: Yes
Lighted: Yes
Setup: Adult
Type: Game
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Warner Park - Soccer #3
Bleachers: No
Lighted: No
Setup: Adult
Type: Game
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Warner Park - Soccer #4
Bleachers: No
Lighted: No
Setup: Adult
Type: Game
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Warner Park - Soccer #5
Bleachers: No
Lighted: No
Setup: Adult
Type: Game
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Softball Field
Many of the softball diamonds are programmed with youth and adult league play. See Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR) for league information.
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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.-
Warner Park Softball #1
Bleachers: Yes
Lighted: Yes
Setup: Adult
Type: Game
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Warner Park Softball #2
Bleachers: Yes
Lighted: Yes
Setup: Adult
Type: Game
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Warner Park Softball #3
Bleachers: Yes
Lighted: Yes
Setup: Adult
Type: Game
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Warner Park Softball #5
Bleachers: Yes
Lighted: Yes
Setup: Adult
Type: Game
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Tennis Court
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
View all Tennis Courts
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.-
Warner Park - Tennis Court
Location: West of softball fields
Surface: Asphalt
Lighted: No
Number of Courts: 3
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Volleyball Court
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
View all Volleyball Courts
Warner Park -
Warner Park - Volleyball
Location: By park shelter
Surface: Sand
Lighted: No
Number of Courts: 2
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