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Friends of Wisconsin State Parks

Exclusive News for Our Valued Friends

Cindy Cseri - Reflections as Interim Executive Director - Through the Crystal Ball.

Educate and Advocate

Advocate and educate state legislators about Wisconsin State Parks to secure funding, protect natural resources, and ensure future generations enjoy them. (LINK)

Building Connections, Restoring Beauty: The Friends of Blue Mound State Park’s Transformative Year

Spotlight on Jim Reynolds: One of the Champions of Blue Mound State Park

The Friends of Blue Mound State Park are a vibrant and active group whose collective efforts enhance the visitor experience and preserve the park’s natural beauty. Among their many dedicated members, Jim Reynolds stands out as an example of how teamwork and shared passion can make a lasting impact. However, it is the combined contributions of all Bluemound Friends that truly define the group's success. Together, they embody a spirit of collaboration, community, and commitment.

A Snapshot of Dedication
Recently, a photo shared on the group’s Facebook page captured the essence of their collective efforts. It showed Jim Reynolds pouring wax into Dixie cups filled with shredded paper to create fire starters, which are sold to campers at the park. While Jim’s involvement is noteworthy, this task is emblematic of the broader volunteer spirit within the Bluemound Friends. Many members join in to support such initiatives, ensuring that visitors enjoy a welcoming and enriching experience.

During a spring camping trip in Missouri, Jim and his wife shared stories with Randy Paske, President of the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks, about their connection to Blue Mound State Park. These stories reflect not just their personal dedication but also the shared passion that drives all Bluemound Friends to contribute in meaningful ways.

A Lifelong Connection to Camping
Jim and his wife have been long-time campers at Blue Mound State Park, starting with a modest pop-up camper and eventually upgrading to a Class C motorhome. For over a decade, they have served as camp hosts every August, taking on responsibilities like cleaning campsites, selling firewood, and assisting visitors. Yet they are not alone in these efforts—other members of the Bluemound Friends also step up to ensure that campers have memorable experiences.

They were introduced to The Friends of Blue Mound State Park when park superintendent Kevin Swenson invited them to get involved. Over time, they joined forces with other volunteers who shared a commitment to improving campground culture and fostering a sense of community among visitors.

Beyond Hosting: A Broader Impact
While Jim has taken on leadership roles within the organization, it is important to recognize the collective work of all Bluemound Friends. Together, they fund and execute projects like trail maintenance, prairie restoration, invasive species control, and ecological management programs. Their collaborative efforts have led to significant improvements such as constructing ADA-accessible facilities and organizing community events like the annual “Horribly Hilly Hundreds” bike ride fundraiser.

These initiatives are not the work of one individual but rather reflect the combined energy and dedication of many volunteers who share a vision for enhancing Blue Mound State Park.

The Horribly Hilly Hundreds: A Signature Event
The “Horribly Hilly Hundreds” bike ride fundraiser is a prime example of how the Bluemound Friends come together to support the park. This challenging event attracts cyclists from across Wisconsin while raising substantial funds for park improvements. Volunteers like Jim play key roles in ensuring its success year after year, but it is the collective effort of all members that makes this event possible.

Beyond its financial impact, the bike ride fosters connections among participants, volunteers, and visitors—strengthening the sense of unity that defines Blue Mound State Park.

Inspiring Others to Join
The Bluemound Friends actively encourage others to get involved in their mission. Members believe that shared interests in nature and community create fulfilling opportunities for individuals to make a difference. Whether crafting fire starters, maintaining trails, or volunteering at events like the Horribly Hilly Hundreds, everyone’s contributions matter.

Jim often reflects on how thoughtful improvements—like an accessible pool that doubled attendance in its first year—are made possible through collective action. This philosophy inspires new volunteers to join and contribute their time and talents.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As a group, the Bluemound Friends remain committed to addressing challenges like updating aging electrical infrastructure at campsites while preserving the park’s charm. These upgrades will require continued collaboration among members who share a vision for ensuring Blue Mound State Park thrives for future generations.

A Legacy of Service
The Bluemound Friends exemplify what it means to be stewards of Wisconsin’s state parks. From crafting fire starters to hosting major events like the Horribly Hilly Hundreds, their collective contributions enrich Blue Mound State Park for countless visitors while inspiring others to get involved.

Through their teamwork and shared passion for nature, this group has left an indelible mark on Blue Mound State Park—a legacy built on care, collaboration, and connection. Their story reminds us that when communities come together with purpose, they can preserve cherished natural spaces for generations to come.

Editorial: Celebrating Growth and Enhanced Visitor Experience in Wisconsin's Parks

As we reflect on Governor Evers' recent budget proposal for the 2025-27 fiscal years, it is clear that Wisconsin's parks and outdoor recreation spaces are poised for significant growth and improvement. The budget highlights a strong commitment to enhancing the visitor experience across the state's park system, ensuring that these natural treasures remain accessible and enjoyable for generations to come.

The proposed budget allocates substantial funds for the development and maintenance of state parks, including $7,819,300 for capital development and maintenance projects in FY26 and FY27, and $3,288,000 for supply funding to support operations and maintenance. These investments will not only improve existing facilities but also expand recreational opportunities, aligning with the state's goal of promoting equitable access to green spaces. Additionally, initiatives like the OutWiGo Explorer Program and the Open the Outdoors initiative demonstrate a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that all Wisconsinites can enjoy the state's beautiful parks and trails.

Furthermore, the budget's emphasis on environmental stewardship, such as reauthorizing the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program and addressing PFAS contamination, underscores a commitment to preserving Wisconsin's natural resources. These efforts will not only protect the environment but also enhance the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

For the average park user, these investments mean improved trails, better facilities, and more opportunities to engage with nature. For example, the Open the Outdoors initiative includes funding for adaptive equipment to expand accessible outdoor recreation opportunities, making parks more inclusive for visitors of all abilities.

Challenges in Budget Passage

While the budget proposal presents a promising future for Wisconsin's parks, it faces significant challenges in the legislative process. The State Building Commission's deadlock on infrastructure projects, including those related to parks and trails, highlights the partisan divide that could hinder the passage of key budget items23. Additionally, the Joint Finance Committee's tendency to revise or reject the governor's proposals could lead to substantial changes or reductions in park-related funding4. Despite these challenges, it is crucial for stakeholders to advocate for these investments to ensure that Wisconsin's parks continue to thrive.

Supporting Wisconsin's Parks: The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks Initiative

As we celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Wisconsin State Park System, the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (FWSP) are working tirelessly to ensure these treasured spaces continue to thrive. This year, FWSP has set an ambitious goal to raise $125,000 in honor of this milestone. This initiative is crucial as it supports trail restoration, naturalist programs, and other enhancements that enrich the park experience. By contributing to this effort, individuals can help preserve Wisconsin's natural heritage and ensure that future generations can enjoy the state's parks as much as we do today. Whether through volunteering or donating, every contribution counts in maintaining the beauty and accessibility of Wisconsin's parks.

Join the Celebration and Support Wisconsin's Parks

As we look forward to the next chapter in the history of Wisconsin's state parks, we invite everyone to join us in celebrating this milestone and supporting these invaluable resources. Whether you're a frequent visitor or just discovering the beauty of Wisconsin's outdoors, there's never been a better time to get involved. Let's work together to ensure that our parks remain vibrant and accessible for years to come.

Stay Connected

• Learn More About the Budget: Visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for detailed information on the budget and its initiatives. (LINK)
• Support Friends of Wisconsin State Parks: Donate today to help reach the $125,000 goal and protect and sustain your favorite parks. (LINK)
• Explore Wisconsin's Parks: Plan your next outdoor adventure and experience the beauty of Wisconsin firsthand. (LINK)

Thank you for your continued support of Wisconsin's parks and natural resources. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for these treasured spaces.

Trailblazing Together: 2025 Plans for Wisconsin State Parks and Friends Groups

Contact us:

S2815 Briar Bluff Rd, Reedsburg, WI 53959
608-294-0810