Vilas Park Mound Group

Vilas Park Mound Group is a protected Indigenous burial-mound area within the park rather than a recreation surface or playground. Navigate to the exact Vilas Park Mound Group pin rather than the general Vilas Park marker. Remain on established paths and do not walk, sit, play, climb, bike, or place objects on the mounds. Treat the area as a protected burial site and follow all posted City of Madison rules.

A strict three-hour limit is enforced at all times. Bus parking is prohibited; buses may load on Wingra Drive, then must relocate to Bowman Park. No parking is allowed after general park hours. Navigate to the exact Vilas Park Mound Group pin rather than the general Vilas Park marker. Remain on established paths and do not walk, sit, play, climb, bike, or place objects on the mounds. Treat the area as a protected burial site and follow all posted City of Madison rules.

The mound area can be viewed during open park hours unless a posted closure, restoration project, event, or weather condition restricts access.

The shelter restroom is open daily outside winter, when access follows staffed recreation hours. Beach restrooms operate approximately 11 a.m.-7 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

No separate admission is listed for respectful outdoor viewing from established paths.

Paved paths and curb cuts connect developed areas, Vilas Beach has a seasonal accessible mat, and Lake Wingra has two accessible fishing piers. Parking distances and winter snow or ice can affect routes.

Leashed dogs with the required Madison dog permit are allowed in general park areas where posted, but must stay out of playgrounds, the beach swim area, shelters, and adjacent Henry Vilas Zoo. There is no off-leash dog park here. Separately operated buildings, beaches, gardens, and attractions can set stricter rules.

Vilas Park Mound Group is a protected Indigenous burial-mound area within the park rather than a recreation surface or playground. Vilas Park has three playgrounds, including the landmark Old Woman in a Shoe slide built in 1962. They are separate from the adjacent Henry Vilas Zoo, which has its own entrances and visitor rules.

Remain on established paths and do not walk, sit, play, climb, bike, or place objects on the mounds. Treat the area as a protected burial site and follow all posted City of Madison rules.