Badger Prairie Mountain Bike Trail Head

For dog owners across Wisconsin, particularly those in the Verona area and surrounding Dane County, finding a truly expansive and diverse outdoor space for their canine companions to explore is a top priority. Badger Prairie County Park is not just a destination for mountain bikers; it's a magnificent 317-acre multi-use park that proudly hosts a fantastic off-leash dog park, making it an invaluable resource for local pet parents. This extensive park provides an exceptional blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, ensuring that both dogs and their human companions can enjoy the best of Wisconsin’s outdoors.

Badger Prairie County Park is far more than a simple dog park. It's a comprehensive recreational hub designed to cater to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, including those with dogs. The dog park itself spans a significant 11 acres, offering ample room for dogs to run, play, and socialize freely. With dedicated areas and diverse terrain, it fosters both physical exercise and mental stimulation. For Wisconsin locals, this park represents a significant investment in community well-being, providing a cherished and well-maintained space where dogs can thrive and owners can enjoy the beauty of their surroundings.

Badger Prairie County Park is strategically located just east of the City of Verona, at the intersection of County Highway PB and US Highways 18 and 151, with its main entrance at 4654 Maple Grove Dr, Verona, WI 53593, USA. This central location makes it highly accessible for residents of Verona, Madison, and wider Dane County. While the provided address might point to the mountain bike trailhead, it’s important to note that the dog park is an integral part of the larger Badger Prairie County Park.

The park is open year-round, typically from dawn to dusk, aligning with general Dane County Parks hours. Ample parking is available at various points, including near the dog park area. The park's extensive network of trails, including connections to the Military Ridge State Trail and the Ice Age National Scenic Trail via the Ice Age Junction Bike Trail, enhances its accessibility for those arriving by bike as well. Visitors should be aware that while the mountain bike trails are managed by CORP Trails (Capital Off-Road Pathfinders), the dog park itself falls under Dane County Parks regulations, and a Dane County dog park permit is required for use. The park also features both flush and vault/pit restrooms, making it convenient for longer visits.

• Expansive Off-Leash Dog Park: The primary service is an 11-acre fenced area specifically designated for off-leash dog play and exercise.
• Separate Small Dog Area: For the comfort and safety of smaller breeds, the park includes a dedicated 2-acre fenced area specifically for small dogs (typically those 18 inches or shorter at the top of their head).
• Walking/Running Trails: Within the dog park, there are opportunities for dogs to run freely across open fields. The broader Badger Prairie County Park offers various multi-use mowed grass paths and natural trails for walking and exploring with leashed pets in designated areas.
• Waste Disposal Stations: To maintain cleanliness, waste receptacles are provided throughout the dog park for responsible disposal of pet waste.
• Water Access: While a review notes bringing your own water, the park map indicates drinking water availability, and there are water bowls near picnic tables, suggesting some form of water access, though personal hydration is still recommended.
• Seating Areas: Benches and picnic tables are available for owners to rest and observe their dogs.
• Permit System: Use of the off-leash dog park requires a Dane County dog park permit, which can be purchased for a daily fee or as an annual pass.

• Massive Size and Variety: As part of a 317-acre park, the 11-acre dog park is truly expansive, offering dogs a vast space to run, play, and explore. This includes open fields and natural elements.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: Described as "maintained very well" and "clean and well-maintained," the park offers a pleasant and safe environment.
• Beginner-Friendly Trails (for the adjacent mountain bike area, but also indicative of overall park quality): While primarily for bikes, the mention of "very good beginner series with so interesting stuff to explore" hints at the park's overall design quality and appeal, which extends to its dog-friendly sections.
• Dedicated Small Dog Area: The specific 2-acre enclosure for small dogs ensures a safer and more comfortable experience for smaller breeds, preventing potential overwhelming interactions with larger dogs.
• Adjacent Amenities: The park's comprehensive offerings include a playground, shelter facilities, aeromodeling field, and extensive mountain biking trails (separate from the dog park), providing activities for the whole family.
• Quiet Atmosphere: One customer review highlights that the park is "Very nice and quiet," suggesting a peaceful environment despite its popularity.
• Restroom Facilities: Flush and vault/pit restrooms are available within Badger Prairie County Park, a convenient amenity not always found at dog parks.
• Year-Round Access: The park is open year-round, allowing for dog exercise and enjoyment in all Wisconsin seasons.

Badger Prairie County Park's off-leash dog park operates under the Dane County Parks system, which requires a permit for use. While there are no traditional "promotions" in the commercial sense, the permit system offers different options to suit various usage levels:

• Annual Dog Park Permits: These provide the most cost-effective option for frequent visitors, granting access to all Dane County dog parks (including Badger Prairie) for a full year. Fees are set by Dane County Parks and are typically lower for Dane County residents.
• Daily Passes: For those visiting less frequently or trying out the park, day passes are available. While some users find the $8 daily fee to be high compared to free parks elsewhere, it provides a convenient option for one-time visits.
• Multi-Park Access: An annual Dane County dog park permit grants access to a network of excellent dog parks across the county, offering significant value to regular users who enjoy variety.

Permits can be purchased online through the Dane County Parks website (reservedane.com) or at electronic pay stations located at various Dane County Parks. It's essential to have a valid permit displayed or readily available, as park staff do check for compliance. The fees collected directly contribute to the maintenance, improvements, and staffing of these valuable canine recreational areas, ensuring the park remains well-kept and safe.

Address: 4654 Maple Grove Dr, Verona, WI 53593, USA (Main Entrance)

Phone: (608) 224-3730 (Dane County Parks Main Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 608-224-3730

For the most current information regarding Badger Prairie County Park, including dog park rules, permit requirements, trail conditions, or any temporary closures (such as the reported restroom closure for construction through late 2025), visitors should refer to the official Dane County Parks website. The phone number provided connects to the Dane County Parks main office, which can assist with general inquiries and permit purchases. It is always recommended to check official sources before visiting to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your canine companion.

Badger Prairie County Park, particularly its exceptional dog park facilities, is an outstanding and highly suitable destination for locals across Wisconsin, especially those residing in the Verona area and Dane County. Its sheer scale—an "11 acre dog park" within a "317-acre park"—provides an unparalleled sense of freedom and space for dogs to run, play, and explore. This vastness is crucial for canine well-being, allowing for vigorous exercise and natural behaviors that smaller, more confined parks simply cannot accommodate.

The park's commitment to quality is evident in its "Very nice and quiet" atmosphere and reputation for being "maintained very well." The inclusion of a dedicated "small dog area" (for dogs 18 inches or shorter at the top of their head) demonstrates a thoughtful approach to safety and comfort for all dog sizes, preventing potential conflicts and ensuring a positive experience for smaller breeds. While a day pass fee exists, this permit system directly supports the park's excellent upkeep and managed environment, which many locals are willing to invest in for a superior experience. The availability of restrooms and diverse terrain, from open fields to natural trails, further enhances the park's appeal for extended visits.

Beyond the dog park, the integration with a larger county park offering mountain biking and access to state trails means that Badger Prairie provides a holistic outdoor experience for families. For Wisconsin locals seeking a vast, well-maintained, and structured environment where their dogs can safely socialize, exercise, and truly enjoy the outdoors, Badger Prairie County Park stands as a premier choice, consistently delivering on its promise of happy dogs and content owners.