Brown County park officials are taking steps to keep both hunters and recreation visitors safe during the upcoming gun deer season, which runs from Nov. 21 through Nov. 29. Certain trails and grounds will be closed to the general public, while still remaining open to hunters who hold the proper permits.
Areas closed to non‑hunters
At the Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve and the Fort Howard Paper Foundation Wildlife Area, all trails and grounds are off‑limits to everyone except those with a special hunting permit. The interpretive center at Barkhausen will stay open during its regular hours, allowing visitors to learn about local wildlife without entering the hunting zones.
The Reforestation Camp will also see trail closures, though some portions of the property will remain open for hunting activities. This selective access helps ensure that hunters can safely pursue game while preventing accidental encounters with non‑hunters.
Partial access areas
Lily Lake Park will keep its picnic grounds and boat launch available to the public. However, park staff warned that hunting is permitted in certain sections of the property, so visitors should stay alert and respect posted signage.
The Vande Hei Property will be open exclusively to hunters during the season, with no public access granted.
Areas where hunting remains prohibited
Hunting is not allowed on the Fox River trail or the Mountain‑Bay trails. Private land adjacent to these trails may be open for hunting, so visitors are urged to stay on designated paths and wear high‑visibility blaze orange.
Safety reminders
County officials strongly recommend that anyone using the parks or trails during gun deer season wear blaze orange clothing to increase visibility. Hunters are reminded to treat every firearm as if it were loaded, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, be certain of their target and what lies beyond, and keep their finger outside the trigger guard until ready to fire.
These precautions are intended to protect families, outdoor enthusiasts, and hunters alike, reinforcing the county’s commitment to safe, responsible recreation in line with traditional family values and personal liberty.
What residents should know
For those planning a visit to Brown County parks during the season, it is wise to check the county’s website or contact the parks department for the latest updates on trail closures and permitted activities. By staying informed and following safety guidelines, residents can enjoy the natural beauty of Brown County while supporting the responsible management of wildlife resources.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
