Wisconsin has scores of beautiful swimming beaches, but the many of the best have a sign with three words that might disappoint your furry friend: “No Dogs Allowed.” Fortunately, there are some beautiful places that welcome four-legged swimmers, and there’s one little park in Dane County that’s a total pup pleaser. Pack the tennis balls and beach towels and load up your sand-loving friend – here’s what’s waiting for you at Viking County Park.

The park is located about 20 minutes south of Madison on the east side of the city of Stoughton. It’s the perfect destination for dogs that need to beat the heat, or just feel a little sand on the paws.
Google / Mark Smith
The expansive park has lots of trails for dogs and their owners to explore, as well as pleasant open spaces for dogs to run and play - or just relax and watch the sunset!
Google / Mark Pressprich
One of the best parts of this park is the water access. The park is just south of Lake Kegonsa and the Yahara River passes right by the park. The Yahara is a 62-mile-long tributary of the Rock River that runs through Madison and the surrounding countryside.
Google / Jianjun Jiang

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There’s a fenced dog area on a scenic peninsula that extends into the Yahara River and there are two dog beaches. The water is especially clear early in the season, so it’s a good bet in the late spring or early summer.
Google / Chris Admave
Humans will also find a lot to love about the park. It has plenty of multi-use trails, a canoe/kayak launch, restrooms, a reservable picnic shelter, and plenty of good spots for shore fishing. Anglers can catch panfish, largemouth bass, and northern pike.
Google / Jerimiah Calvino
The park is also a nice rest stop if you’re biking the scenic roads around Stoughton. There’s a plesant trail that connects the park to the city.
Google / Jess Michaels

Viking Park is open daily. Learn more about the park on the county website and use this map to plan your next adventure. If you need a place to relax after a big day at the beach, here’s a beer garden that your pooch just might like.

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Featured Addresses
Viking County Park, 1583 County Hwy N, Stoughton, WI 53589, USA