Enjoy 5 Daytrip Worthy Beaches In Southern Wisconsin This Second Summer


Where ever you travel in Lakes Edition country you're bound to find a great place to

spend a lazy, relaxing day on the beach.



Second Summer is well under way in Southern Wisconsin, low humidity and temps in the mid-70s, ideal beach bum weather. If you are like many Americans, Summer was not the easiest time get away from Zoom meetings. And Let's face it COVID-19 is/was a difficult time for all of us.


Pick any day of the week, a trip to the beach might be the perfect getaway to cool down and chill. This year like previous years has seen unprecedented weather patterns which have made it suitable once again for the return of blue green algae to area lakes. Thankfully, there are number of government agencies, and organizations keeping tabs on the toxic blooms to keep us safe during the summer season.


However, most local health departments in Wisconsin do not have the capacity to monitor blue-green algae toxins at public beaches, so treat any accumulation of blue-green algae with caution. As the DNR motto goes:. "When in doubt, stay out!"


There are certainly more than 5 beaches in the Southern Wisconsin region, but the places listed below are open and not currently plagued by high levels of e-coli or blue green algae..



To learn more about each lake click on their image or name listed below.


THE BEACHES

(photo courtesy DNR)

 

Lake Koshkonong

Towns Nearby: Edgerton, Fort Atkinson

Whitewater Lake


Towns Nearby: Whitewater


Lakeview Campground Beach

Address: 1901 E. State Rd. 59, Milton


Lakeland Campground Beach

Address: -- 2803 E. State Rd. 59, Milton

WHITEWATER LAKE BEACH

Address: W7908 Kettle Moraine Drive, Whitewater

Phone: 262-594-6200.

Hours: 6 am-11 pm (year-round.)


Scenic beauty abounds this region's beach location is among  the forests or the Southern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest is nearby. A great destination for a day in the sun with the family or couple getaway and picnic basket.


LAKE KEGONSA STATE PARK (beach)

Address: 2405 Door Creek Road
Stoughton, WI 53589
Phone: 608-873-9695


Tucked away on the south eastern shore of Lake Kegonsa this beach is very popular with weekend visits. If you have a pet there is a lightly, maintained Dog Beach nearby accessible by a paved path.


ADVISORY: The Wisconsin DNR noted 06/11/2021 that  blue-green algae was previously present in Lake Kegonsa.

GOVERNOR NELSON STATE PARK

5140 Cty Hwy M, Waunakee


Easily the largest beach in Southern Wisconsin, looks more like a plot of sand you would find on a Great Lake not an inland lake. Popular destination in the Summer months, and a Second Summer, best kept secret .

Before you go

Here are some helpful beach safety tips courtesy of the
Wisconsin DNR:


  •   Never swim alone.
  •   Stay in designated swimming areas.
  •   Drink plenty of fluids.
  •   Wear sunglasses that absorb at least 90 percent of UV sunlight.
  •   Wear sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and a wide-brimmed hat.
  •   Spend part of your day in shaded areas.
  •   Wash your hands before eating.
  •   Shower after swimming.
  •   Don't swallow the water.
  •   Avoid swimming after heavy rain.
  •   Don't swim near storm drains.