Dane County Parks

Swimming & Beaches

Dane County Parks offers three beaches that visitors can enjoy for free including a secluded lake at Stewart Lake County Park and two beaches with Clean Beach Treatment Systems. Please note there are no lifeguards at these beaches. No pets are allowed in designated beach areas.

Water Conditions:
Check to see if the beach is open before you go by clicking the button below to access the Public Health Madison and Dane County website. Their website contains up-to-date information on beach conditions including water quality data and beach closings.

Check Before You Go

Dane County Parks Swimming Beaches

Goodland County Park beach is located on the western shore of Lake Waubesa and uses the Clean Beach Treatment System described below.
Mendota County Park beach is located on the northwest part of Lake Mendota and uses the Clean Beach Treatment System described below.
Stewart Lake County Park beach offers a secluded lake, sandy beach and swimming area with a nearby picnic shelter, play equipment, and hiking trails.

Clean Beach Treatment System

The Dane County Clean Beach Treatment System (PDF) uses a flexible curtain and chemical-free water treatment process to create a safe swimming area with clear, beautiful, algae-free water. This helps minimizes beach closings due to algae and E. coli.

This treatment system allows visitors to enjoy the lakes right now, while Dane County and other partners work to improve the water quality of the Yahara chain of lakes through long-term projects.