News from the Park

February Friends Newsletter Updates

Written by Rhondella Morgan, President

I think one of my favorite board meetings is held in January.  This is the one where we realize how quickly the winter has gone and Spring will soon be here.  We also plan for the summer events.  This year was the same as previous years, so many exciting things happening at Harrington Beach State Park!  With all that is happening, I can’t wait until February gets here to issue the February newsletter.

Accessible Cabin:  The shell is done, deck is on and we made it through our first inspection.   Since the first of the year the electrical, plumbing and heating have reached a point where we could insulate.  After an inspection, we should be able to start the interior walls.  If you are interested in helping with this project, please email us at .  The  cash goal to complete the building is $160,000.  If you are able to help, financial contributions can be made by mail at Friends of Harrington Beach State Park, 531 County Hwy D, Belgium, WI  53004 or via the donation link at http://friendsofharrington.org/

Candlelight Ski-Hike:  The next hike will be on February 7, 2015 from 6 to 9 p.m.  We will be serving a few different soups, hot dogs, bars/cookies, apple cider, cocoa and coffee.  As an added extra, we will have baked potatoes cooking out on the fire.  They will be baked in Dutch ovens.  The food will be free but donations are appreciated. Vehicle Admission sticker will be required.

Invasive Species Program:  Dennis Goldsmith has worked over 10 years on removal and control of Invasive Species.  The park improvements from his work is amazing and enjoyed by so many.  If you have an interest in helping with this project or even learning more about invasive species, please email us at

Volunteer Opportunities:  Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity?  Check out the following list and email us at to learn more.

  • April 18 Arbor Day/Earth Day event.  This year we will be planting 400 trees from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  The Friends of Harrington Beach State Park will be providing a free hot dog lunch for all who help. There will also be a Geocaching event this day.  Watch for details.
  • In the summer, it is fun to work 3 hour shifts in the concession stand.  You can work 1 time the whole summer or as many shifts as you want.
  • Help with the cabin construction.
  • Share ideas of your own!

Annual Meeting:  The Friends of Harrington Beach State Park annual membership meeting will be held Thursday, April 23, 2015 with a free dinner at 6 pm and the business meeting to begin at 6:30 pm.  Not yet a member?  You can join anytime between now and the night of the meeting.  Watch for more details or email us at .

Free Fishing Weekend:  June 6th and 7th is free fishing weekend at Wisconsin State Parks.  The 6th will include a free fishing clinic from 9 am to 1 pm at Puckett’s Pond.  Bring your children and enjoy the day!  Sunday, June 7th is Open House at the park which includes free park admission.  The Friends of Harrington Beach State Park will hold their FREE Pancake breakfast. Be sure to save the dates!

“Like” us on Facebook or visit our website at www.friendsofharrington.org to keep up-to-date on all that is happening in the park. 

The Friends of Harrington Beach State Park board of directors meet the 4th Thursday of the month.  Our next scheduled meeting is Thursday, February 26, 2015 at 7:00 in the Park office.  The meeting is open to the public.  We hope you can join us!