Interpretive Programs in Wisconsin State Parks and Forests

Did you ever wonder...

• Why the stars twinkle?
• Why Wisconsin has so many lakes?
• Where frogs go in winter?

Try an interpretive program!

Naturalist Beth Goeppinger shows children some fascinating things about an insect they found.
Photo © Scott Cimaglio

Interpreters guide hikes, chat with campers around campfires, and answer questions from school children. See the schedule of events. On your own, you can tour an interpretive center, enjoy a self-guided hiking trail, or join your children in the Junior Ranger/Wisconsin Explorer  program.

Interpretive programs aim to create interest, understanding, respect, and a sense of responsibility toward our natural resources.

Enjoy an interpretive program with us!

Types of Interpretive Programs

Year-round programs. Several parks offer interpretive programs year-round for your enjoyment.

Evening programs. Enjoy an evening slide talk, a movie, or an informal campfire chat.

Guided nature hikes. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the area with an interpreter who points out interesting natural phenomena and helps you understand what you see.

Interpretive centers have displays and exhibits, to interpret the natural history of the park and surrounding area.

Self-guided nature trails have signs or brochures that point out interesting or unusual features you see while hiking.

School programs. Interpreters or park staff are available to help teachers on field trips to some parks. Other properties offer field trip guides to help teachers plan their own educational activities in the park.

Junior Ranger/Wisconsin Explorer Program. A parent-child discovery program.

For more information on this topic, ask Sherry Klosiewski, (715) 365-8966.