Madison

Are you looking to explore Madison beyond campus but don’t know where to start? Badgers Branch Out will help you find the perfect green space to explore in your community. No matter where you go in Madison, you are bound to find a green space nearby.

B.B. Clarke Beach Park

With just less than two acres of space, B.B. Clarke Beach is a small but delightful area to enjoy Lake Monona. It features a playground, canoe and kayak storage and launch site, designated swim area, and a few benches to take in Madison’s stunning views. Where it’s located

Burrows Park

With 10 acres of green space, Burrows Park is a quiet area along the shores of Lake Mendota. It offers a rustic park shelter and fireplace, two piers, picnic tables, playground, and boat storage for a local sailing club. It is also home to a bird effigy mound that was restored in the 1900s. Located…

Governor’s Island

Governor’s Island is a hidden gem that offers stunning views of Madison and Lake Mendota. With a handful of little trails snaking off the main loop, it is a great place to go for a short walk or dip your feet in Lake Mendota. With 60 acres to explore, it is a great park to…

Hoyt Park

Hoyt Park is a unique green space in Madison. Once a quarry, you can find rocks that date back over 500 million years ago. Hoyt Park is a quiet area with a few hiking trails throughout its 22 acres of Madison’s urban forest. While there, you can also find 12 restored historic fireplaces. If you…

James Madison Park

With views of Lake Mendota on one side and views of the State Capitol on the other, James Madison Park is a green space that has Madison written all over it. It is a great place to enjoy a picnic, play a game of basketball, volleyball, or soccer. With its open space and stunning views,…

Merrill Springs Park

Merrill Springs Park may only be less than an acre, but it is one of Madison’s hidden gems. Featuring a historic cistern built in 1934 and three stone benches, it is unlike any other Madison park. This charming green space nestled on Lake Mendota is worth a visit! Where it’s located

Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a nature lover’s paradise. Home to a variety of gardens, such as the Rose Garden, Perennial Garden, Sunken Garden, and Herb Garden, there is plenty to explore. While there, don’t forget to visit the Thai Pavilion and Garden. The Thai Pavilion is a must-visit, as it was built in Thailand and…

Olin Park and Turville Point Conservation Park

With versatility throughout the year, Olin Park and Turville Conservation Park are a worthy adventure any season. Pack your favorite lunch to enjoy on the open grassy space along lake Monona with stunning views of Wisconsin’s State Capitol at Olin Park. After a relaxing picnic, go for a hike around Turville Point Conservation Park, where…

Owen Conservation Park

Owen Park is a lesser-known Madison Park, but one worth adding to your list of places to explore. With nearly 100 acres of prairies and oak savannas, it offers views of Wisconsin’s beautiful landscapes. While walking along the three miles of trails, you have plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. Located off of Old Sauk…

Tenney Park

With its enchanting storybook scenery, Tenney Park is a Madison favorite. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the path and over the bridges like a character in a fairy tale. Take in the impressive views of Lake Mendota, and watch as boats enter or exit the Tenney Park lock, which connects Lakes Mendota and Monona via…

UW-Madison Arboretum

The UW-Madison Arboretum is a must-visit in Madison. With over 1,200 acres, the UW-Madison Arboretum is the perfect place to spend the day and experience the outdoors. Bordering Lake Wingra and with a variety of habitats, such as prairies, forests, wetlands, and savannas, the Arboretum is well worth the time. It is a popular location…

Vilas (Henry) Park

Vilas Park, located along the shore of Lake Wingra, provides ample green space to do some of your favorite activities. With nearly 46 acres, you can go for a run, play tennis, or have a picnic. If you prefer water activities, you can fish, kayak, and even ice skate during the winter months. It is…

Warner Park

With its playful atmosphere, Warner Park has something for everyone. Home to a variety of landscapes, there is plenty to explore in its 213 acres. Not only does Warner Park provide ample green space, but it also contains a dog park, beach, boat launch, hiking/biking trails, and a rainbow picnic shelter. Warner Park is a…

Yahara Place Park

One of Madison’s hidden gems, Yahara Place Park is a peaceful escape from city life. Nestled along Lake Monona’s shores and the Yahara River, it is a great green space to enjoy the watershed that Madison is famous for. With 6 acres, it features a playground, volleyball court, basketball court, benches, and open space to…