Governor Nelson State Park Off Leash Dog Swimming

The Governor Nelson State Park Off-Leash Area for Dog Swimming is in the Governor Nelson State Park near the town of Waunakee in Wisconsin. There is parking available at the entrance. To obtain vehicle access into the park there is either a daily or annual fee payable. The annual fee allows entry into all parks and trail areas in Wisconsin. The vehicle admission sticker can be purchased at the park entrance and must be displayed on the vehicle.

Located north of the main picnic area, the Governor Nelson State Park Off-Leash Area for Dog Swimming is a natural stretch of lakeshore which is rimmed with a sandy beach and the water at the edge is shallow. This makes it ideal for small breeds to paddle in. There is no special section for small dogs. There is a wooden jetty from where dogs that swim well and are confident can leap into deeper water.

Dogs are only permitted to be off-leash when in the water or preparing to go into the water. They must be leashed at all other times, including when they are on the dog beach. Wisconsin state authorities require pets to be on leashes no longer than eight feet in length. Dogs are not permitted in any of the picnic areas or on specifically marked nature trails. There are trails in the Governor Nelson State Park where leashed dogs are permitted, but they must be under their handlers control at all times.

Pet owners are held completely responsible for the removal of all dog waste at the off-leash swimming area and on the trails throughout the main park. Poop bags are not provided so owners must bring their own, but there are suitable containers for depositing collected waste. There are no water fountains installed in the dog swimming area so you should bring your own water for you and your furbaby.