DNR: Milwaukee Parks and Trails to Face Closures During RNC, State Fair

MADISON, Wis. (Civic Media) — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources announced Thursday that several Milwaukee-area facilities and properties will face full or partial closures over the next two months due to the Republican National Convention (RNC) and the Wisconsin State Fair.

Lakeshore State Park, a portion of the Hank Aaron State Trail, and the DNR Southeast Regional Headquarters, including the Milwaukee Service Center, will close during the RNC in Milwaukee. The Hank Aaron State Trail will also close during the Wisconsin State Fair.

The DNR Southeast Regional Headquarters and Milwaukee Service Center will be closed to the public and staff from July 6-21. Customers needing assistance are directed to visit GoWild.Wi.Gov, call 1-888-936-7463, or visit the Waukesha Service Center.

Lakeshore State Park will close to the public on July 13-14, reopening on July 15. Havenwoods State Forest will offer extended hours and additional events during this period to provide alternative recreation options.

The Hank Aaron State Trail will face two separate closures. From July 15-20, the trail will close between 76th and 89th streets to accommodate RNC security operations. It will close again in the same section from August 1-11 during the Wisconsin State Fair.

State Fair Park Management and Police have implemented enhanced security measures in recent years, including metal detectors, secure fencing, and bag restrictions. Closing the elevated trail that runs over the fairgrounds is deemed necessary to maintain a secure perimeter during the event.

Alternative routes will be available, and State Fair Park staff will post signage about the closure dates and alternate routes. Additional bike lane striping will be added on North St. (Adler) between the State Fair Park North Parking Lot and the US Cellular Main Entrance.

For questions regarding the State Fair-related trail closure, contact State Fair Park Police at 414-519-7324.