Conditions

Hunting

Hunting continues through the end of February, so hunters and other visitors should be prepared to share the property.

Pheasant season is open through December 31. Hunting hours for pheasant are 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. every day. During pheasant season the following rules are in effect:

  • · The ATV loops will be open only after 2 p.m.--weather permitting. Please do not arrive before 2 p.m. to ride.
  • · Dog training will be available after 3 p.m.
  • · All other Special Zone uses--rocket, model plane, falconry, etc. open after 2 p.m.
  • · Archery deer season on property opens and closes per regulations all season.
  • · Waterfowl hunting south of Highway 142 opens and closes per regulation hours all season but must be done from a designated blind or post ONLY! Waterfowl Hunting north of Hwy. 142 closes at 2 p.m.
  • · ALL small game hunting on the property opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 2 p.m.
  • · During the Gun Deer Seasons--October 27-30 and November 19-December 31--all hunters (except waterfowl hunters) must wear at least 50 percent blaze orange above the waist. A hat, if worn, must be blaze orange.
  • Attention, pheasant hunters: To expedite the morning rush at the park entrance, please do not use your credit or debit cards and have exact change--$3 per hunter plus vehicle admission fee if needed. Having an annual sticker will move you through the line much more quickly!

    • Hikers, bikers and horseback riders may use any part of the park during hunting season. If you are uncomfortable using the park in hunting areas, you may use the park before 9 a.m. or after 2 p.m., or use the no-hunting areas--Green Trail and Interpretive trail. It is always a good idea to wear blaze orange.

    Hunters and non-hunters alike should be aware of the open and closed hunting areas in the park. Please ask for a map.

    Camping

    Most of the campgrounds are open. Some close for the season in September or October:

    • · 100 Loop of Sunrise Campground is open until October 30.
    • · The 1-30 loop and part of the Sunrise loop will remain open for camping all winter.
    • · 200 Loop of Sunrise Campground and the dump station and water facilities are closed.
    • · Sunset Campground is closed.
  • Horse camping is only allowed in Parking Lot E.

    • You can reserve (exit DNR) sites for dates up to 11 months from today.

    Picnicking

    Vista Picnic Area is open for the season until October 28.

    Beach

    The bathhouse is closed for the season.

    Trails

    See ATV/dirt bike trail information. Please call (262) 878-5600 to hear the daily trail conditions message.

    Please call Richard Bong State Recreation Area, (262) 878-5600 for daily updates of open/closed trails and other information.