Capital Springs State Recreation Area

The new Capital Springs Centennial State Recreation Area just south of Madison encompasses about 3,000 acres stretching from Fish Hatchery Road east to Lake Waubesa, including most of the Nine Springs E-way. The project also includes the Capital City State Trail.

Nine Springs Creek flows through the area.
DNR Photo

When completed, the new Capital Springs State Park will seamlessly join Dane County's Lake Farm Park and newly acquired state land into a cooperatively operated and managed park. It includes familiar wildlife and recreation areas like the Monona Conservancy Wetlands, MMSD Wildlife Observation Area, Nine Springs E-way, Nevin Fish Hatchery, Jenni and Kyle Preserve, and Lussier Family Heritage Center.

The park is at the hub of several state and city trails, making travel to and from it easy for hikers and cyclists.

Although some of the newly acquired land is not yet open to the public, the recreation area, Capital City Trail and the Lake Farm Unit [exit DNR] are open for use. Hiking/skiing trails, picnic shelters, a boat launch and campground are all available just minutes from downtown Madison.

For camping or picnic shelter reservations, contact Dane County Parks [exit DNR], (608) 246-3896

Capital Springs' three shelters are popular sites for group picnics.
DNR Photo

In the Area

Madison [exit DNR]—Accommodations, attractions, dining, events, and more

How to Get There

From Madison or Interstate Highway I-90, take the West Beltline (US Highway 12/18 to the South Towne Drive Exit (exit 264) and go south. Continue for almost 1 mile and then turn left on Moorland Road, which turns into Lake Farm Road after the road curves. You'll come to trailhead parking on your right. Farther on, at 3101 Lake Farm Road, you'll see the Lussier Family Heritage Center and campground on your left.

For more information, ask Kevin Swenson, manager, (608) 224-3606.