Frequently Asked Questions
Resources & Services
Parks & Wildlife Areas Environmental Education Roadside Management Hanson Nature Center: Capital Campaign Lake Catherine Cabin Geocaching Hogsback Target Shooting Range Staff & Conservation Board Conservation Foundation Equipment for Rent Links & Resources FAQ Department HomeCan I reserve a campsite?
Unfortunately, all our campsites are only available on a first-come, first-served basis. But, our campgrounds rarely fill up, so it’s usually pretty easy to find a site.
Do you allow pets or smoking in the Lake Catherine Cabin?
Smoking is not allowed in the cabin. Up to two pets are allowed for a $25/stay fee. Alcohol is allowed, although keg beer is not.
Do you have planting equipment that I can rent?
We do have several grass drills and tree planters available for rent. Check out our Equipment for Rent page to see what is available and how much rental costs are.
Do you hire seasonal employees?
Yes, we do! Each summer we hire a few seasonal employees to help with park maintenance or to drive a spray truck. Currently, we have a Seasonal Natural Resource Technician position open for this summer. You can learn more about it here. If you’d like to apply, simply fill out this employment application and send it off to us, either through the mail or electronically. For more information about this job or possible future jobs, you can contact WCCB Director Robert Schwartz.
How can I book a program for my group?
If you have a group that would like to have a program, just contact our Naturalist, Lisa Ralls, and she can arrange something! A list of available programs is listed on our Environmental Education page. Although that is a listing of available school programs, those programs can also be presented to other groups, as well. And, if you have an idea for a different program, that could probably also be arranged!
How can I reserve the Lake Catherine Cabin?
First, please check out the calendar on the Lake Catherine Cabin page to find out which dates are open. Once you know which dates you want, fill out the reservation form and return it, along with your cabin rental fee, either through the mail or electronically. You can pay either by check or by credit/debit card. (Credit/debit card convenience fees will apply.) Once we receive those, we will contact you with your door code for the cabin. You are then good to go! (The cabin will be closed for maintenance through February, but should be open again in March. But, we are accepting reservations for any dates after it reopens.)
How many campsites do you have?
We have 15 campsites at Thorpe Park and 8 sites at Dahle Park.
How much does camping cost?
The electrical/water sites at Thorpe Park cost $12/night, while the primitive, tent-only sites are $8/night. All Dahle Park sites are $10/night.
How much does the Lake Catherine Cabin cost?
Weeknights (Sunday through Thursday) are $61.00, while Friday and Saturday nights cost $77.00. We usually require a two-night stay on weekends (both Friday and Saturday nights) during the summer months.
What amenities do you have at your campgrounds?
Thirteen of the sites at Thorpe Park have both electrical and water hookups, while the Dahle Park sites have electrical hookups only. Each campground also has a water spigot and pit toilets. Neither campground has flush toilets, showers, or a dump station. We sometimes have free firewood available, although it is recommended that campers bring their own. All firewood must come from within Winnebago County.
What should I do with the “orphaned” animal or bird that I found?
Unless you are certain that an animal or bird is injured or in imminent danger, the best thing to do is leave it alone! Most “orphaned” babies are not orphaned at all; their parents are usually around watching over their youngsters. Baby animals and birds do not have “babysitters” and are often left alone while their parents are looking for food to bring back. Raising a wild baby is very difficult and requires a lot of work and expertise; so unless a baby animal or baby bird is injured, it usually has a much better chance of survival when it is raised by its own parents.
