The Friends Shelter is available for rent.
Click here for the application form.
Click here for the rates.
Call the park for availability information. 608 437-5711
The
efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donors and the Friends'
fundraising events such as the Horribly Hilly Hundreds Bike Event and
trail runs over the last 10 years have brought the shelter from a
dream to reality. Visions of families and friends using the shelter
and connecting trails to enjoy outdoor Wisconsin were realized on the
shelter’s first day.
The
2400 square foot building was designed by Jacob Morrison of Morrison
Architecture (Madison) and built by Buss Construction (Cross Plains).
The project came in on budget and ahead of schedule. It is heated,
air conditioned and fully accessible with bathrooms and drinking
water. Volunteer John Koffel coordinated the process for the
Friends.
The
Friends raised about 85% of the $500,000 needed for the structure
from events and private donors. The co-operation and assistance
provided by the Wisconsin DNR, The Wisconsin Dept of Administration
and the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship fund were critical to the success
of the project. Still to come are connecting accessible trails and
additional landscaping for the grounds. These projects will take
additional funds and enthusiasm.
Grants secured to support the all season shelter and learning center:
Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program - $6950 matching grant - 2009
Courtier Foundation $10,000 –2011
Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program - $20,000 matching grant – 2011
Courtier Foundation $10,000 – 2012Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program - $20,000 matching grant - 2012
Chris Funk Memorial Fund - $20,000 - 2012
