Our Mission

Friends of Interstate and Straight Lake Parks is a non-profit organization established with the purpose of supporting, assisting, and promoting the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources with interpretive, scientific, historical, educational, and related visitor services at Wisconsin Interstate and Straight Lake State Parks.

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Candlelight Night Fun

Nearly 500 people came out to experience winter fun by candlelight on February 7!  People could choose to cross country ski or to hike four different routes at Interstate Park. Guests were also welcomed by warm fires and fun at the Ice Age Center which included a number of hot beverages, warm food, snacks and lively music provided by the Log Jammers!

A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required on all motor vehicles stopping in state parks, forests and recreation areas.

Admission stickers can be purchased online or at most individual properties. (Remember, an annual pass is now valid for 12 months from the time of purchase.)

Celebrating 125 Years!

September 20, 2025 marked a special day for Interstate Park.  Individuals from around the state and region came to help us celebrate this milestone!

The day was packed with history and programs throughout the park.  Park visitors, DNR staff and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers participated in the day’s festivities.  Events included nature journaling, learning to rock climb, guided hikes on the Pothole Trail with the Traprock Chapter of the Ice Age Trail, History of the Wisconsin State Park System, the history of the Silverbrook Mansion, the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) and so much more!

The year’s not over, and there’s still more to come.  Watch for information on our Annual Meeting and Fall Festival in October!

A few photos from the 125th Celebration!

Check out our latest posts…

Live Animals Provide a Learning Opportunity!

On February 13, a special nature storytime adventure was enjoyed by nearly 80 people at the Ice Age Center at Interstate Park. Wildlife educator, Chris Cold, with the help of several of his feathery and scaly friends informed nature storytime participants of many...

Candlelight Night Fun

Winter Fun! Nearly 500 people came out to experience winter fun by candlelight on February 7!  People could choose to cross country ski or to hike four different routes at Interstate Park. Guests were also welcomed by warm fires and fun at the Ice Age Center which...

Friends Honored by WI DNR

"The Friends are genuinely passionate and dedicated to the parks and contributed endless volunteer hours and are so enthusiastic while sharing information to visitors, creating a memorable and positive visitor experience."The Friends of Interstate and Straight Lake...

First Day Hike

Dozens of individuals came out to Interstate and Straight Lake State Parks to kick off the new year with a winter hike.  Participants could warm by a fire while making s'mores or warm up at the Ice Age Center with snacks, hot cider, cocoa or coffee. This is just the...

Not Just for the Birds!!

Last week during Nature Storytime, kids, moms, dads and grandmas made peanut butter sunflower seed pine cones for the winter birds to eat. After finishing the bird treats, we made homemade waffles for everyone and sang songs. It was a fun thing to do on a cold winter...

Audio Tour Updated!

Interstate park Naturalist, Maia Lieske, has recently updated the audio tour available for Interstate Park with 12 stops throughout the park. You have the opportunity to further explore the beauty and history of the park. In this audio tour, you will learn about the...

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Members, Sponsors and Partners

A special Thank You to our community partners who’s generosity and support help us deliver outdoor educational and recreational activities throughout the year.

Andrie Electric
City of St. Croix Falls
Village Pizzeria
ABC Building<br />
Falls Chamber of Commerce
Village of Osceola, WI
J&S General Contracting
Osceola Chamber
Wild Rivers Conservancy
Trollhaugen Ski and Snowboard
Wisconsin DNR
Ice Age Trail