Lake Kegonsa State Park Dog Beach

For lucky pups living near Madison, Wisconsin, a furbulous sandy pupperdise awaits on Lake Kegonsa. The Lake Kegonsa State Park in Stoughton offers all the amenities vacationing families are looking for! With camping, hiking opportunities, and access to the pawrific lake, the most pupular attraction for dogs is most assuredly the Dog Beach!

The Dog Beach is a section of beach in the Lake Kegonsa State Park set aside just for our canine besties! With parking available in the main park's lot, there's also a lot just for the dog beach. From this smaller lot, take a trail on leash to the beach. This small stretch of soft sand set between several tall trees is clearly marked with a signpost stating it is the pet swim area. The water close to the shoreline is relatively shallow and is suitable for small dogs. A wooden jetty has been installed on the dog beach from which dogs are able to leap into the deeper water. Dogs can go off leash in the water to swim, but must be leashed in all other areas of the the beach and park. There's even a picnic area for a snack or meal by the lake.

If your pup gets their fill of the water, put on the leash and take a stroll along one of the trails. With a combined five miles, these trails travel through a variety of terrain, including wetland marshes, prairies, and oak savannas. Dogs are welcome to hike any of the trails with you except for the White Oak Nature Trail.

Camping is also available here, and is dog-friendly. Picnic tables and human restrooms are scattered throughout the park. Note that dogs are prohibited on beaches or picnic areas other than in the Dog Beach, in any buildings, or playgrounds. While you can load up on drinking water at the restrooms, it may be easier to bring bottled water and bowls with you for your thirsty pup. Don't furget the clean-up bags, and always stoop and scoop.

Entry to this gorgeous park starts at a daily rate of $8 for residents, or $11 for out of state vehicles. Annual passes good for a year of admission to all the state parks and forests in Wisconsin can be purchased for $28 for residents, or $38 for non-residents.

For a woofderful lakeside adventure with your pup, head to the Lake Kegonsa State Park today!