Following is a list of County Parks managed by this department. 

 

Amco Park Big Eau Pleine Park Big Rapids Park Bluegill Bay Park Cherokee Park Courthouse Square D.C. Everest Park Dells of the Eau Claire Park Duane L. Corbin Shooting Range Park Library Park Marathon Park Mission Lake Park Mountain-Bay State Park Trail Reitbrock Geographical Marker Rib Falls Park Sunny Vale Park

Overview Map of the Marathon County Park System

AMCO PARK (Map)
379 County Highway F
Athens, WI 54411

Update September 20, 2011:  The County Highway F bridge at Amco Park is being replaced.  County Highway F is going to be closed from September 26 through November 13, 2011.

Directions: From Wausau take STH 29 west 9 miles to STH 107, STH 107 north 10 miles to CTH F, CTH F west 7 miles to the park.

This 39 acre park is located on west side of Marathon County and has access to the Big Rib River.

• Open picnic shelter, no reservations-first come, first serve
• Permanent picnic tables
• Water pump
• Play equipment
• Vault toilets

BIG EAU PLEINE PARK (Map)
3301 Eau Pleine Park Road
Mosinee, WI 54455

Directions: From Wausau take US 51 south 12 miles to STH 153, STH 153 west 8 miles to Eau Pleine Park Road, Eau Pleine Park Road south 3 1/2 miles to park entrance; OR STH 153 east to CTH O, south on CTH O to Town of Moon, and watch for signs. The park is approximately 4 miles west of Moon.

Big Eau Pleine Park is a sizeable park containing 1,450 acres of second-growth mixed hardwoods forming a two-mile peninsula thrust deep into the waters of the Big Eau Pleine Reservoir.  The majority of the park was gifted to Marathon County in 1937 by Consolidated Water Power Company.  The park operates two seperate campgrounds with a total of 106 sites.  Twelve miles of developed trails allow hiking, biking and horseback riding.  Visitors can also fish and there are several fishing points near the entrance of the park and adjacent to the three boat landings in the park.

SOUTH UNIT: 2 open shelters with 4 tables underneath, scattered picnic tables, grills, 2 boat landings, water pump, nature trails, horseshoe pits. South Unit Campground: 60 sites; 24 with electricity; 36 without electricity, 2 vault restrooms, dumpster, recycling station, water pump.

WEST UNIT: West Unit Campground, 46 sites, all 46 sites have electricity; 2 water pumps, 2 vault restrooms, campsites with view of water, boat landing, self registration station, dumpster, recycling station, picnic area, group campsite. Enclosed Shelter #19 has picnic tables, windows/sky lights, fireplace, covered wings, picnic tables, grills, fireplace. (Renters can request to have the gate opened to unload and load up closer to the building, but there is "No Parking" past the gate.) List on contract if gate needs to be opened. BEACH: 100 parking spaces (54 beach/46 other), 2 vault restrooms, changing rooms, open grassy area, 3 open shelters, BBQ shelter, 2 water pumps, horseshoe pits, playground equipment, scattered tables & grills. 39 parking spots in boat landing lot (14 cars & trailers/25 cars), dumpster, recycling station, paved path.
 

BIG RAPIDS PARK (Map)
EP1806 Big Rapids Street
Stratford, WI 54484

Directions: From Wausau take US 51 south 3 miles to TH N, CTH N west 23 miles to STH 97, STH 97 south 4 miles to Big Rapids Road, Big Rapids Road west 1 mile to the park.

Big Rapids Park encompases 33 acres and is located on the Big Eau Pleine River in west central Marathon County.  The river is dammed thereby providing swimming and fishing opportunities.
 
Lower Area: Picnic tables, swim beach, picnic area, vault restrooms, no grills, dumpster.
 
Upper Area: Playground equipment, water pump, open shelter, grills, picnic tables, horseshoe pits, dumpster, paved path, beach.

BLUEGILL BAY PARK (Map)
3800 Bluegill Avenue
Wausau, WI 54401

Directions:  From Wausau take US 51 south 2 miles to CTH NN, CTH NN east 1/4 mile to CTH N (Rib Mountain Drive.), CTH N south 1/2 mile to Oriole Lane, Oriole Lane east 1/2 mile to park; OR south on Rib Mountain Drive 1 mile to Cloverland Lane, Cloverland Lane east 1/2 mile to park.

This park offers access to Lake Wausau on its west shore.  The park has double boat launch ramp with courtesy piers.  Bluegill Bay Park is heavily used by boaters and by ice fisherman to gain access to Lake Wausau year-round. 

• North section: (enter from Oriole Lane) Boat landing, benches, picnic area, well, open shelter, flush toilets, walking trails, volleyball court (provide your own net), dumpster, paved path.
   
• South section: (enter from Cloverland Lane) 2 open shelters, 1 large open shelter #4 that is reservable, no electricity in large shelter, capacity 75, no lights, picnic area, well pump, flush toilets, volleyball court, hiking trails, horseshoe pits, dumpster, grills-scattered, play equipment, recycling center, fishing pier, limited parking, play equipment, recycling station.

CHEROKEE PARK (Map)
H2700 CTH N
Colby, WI 54421

This 69 acre park is located on the western border of Marathon County.  This park offers fishing and swimming opportunities afforded by the Big Eau Pleine River running through the park.

Directions:  From Wausau take US 51 south 3 miles to CTH N, CTH N west 30 miles to park; OR from Wausau take STH 29 west 28 miles to CTH F, CTH F south 3 miles to park.

       

The vintage enclosed shelter is reservable and offers the following amenities:

• Kitchen
• 5 tables
• Electricity
• Water pump
• Fireplace
• Covered Wing
• Grills attached

Contact the Park Administrative Office at 715.261.1550 to check on availability.  To reserve the shelter complete a contract, and pay the use fee.

Other park features include vault toilets, open field, swimming area, playground equipment, gazebo, scattered grills & tables, horseshoe pits, dumpster, walking trails/paved path, small open shelter.



COURTHOUSE SQUARE
500 Forest Street
Wausau, WI 54403

Part of the Courthouse complex, this 0.42 acre park offers an open area for sitting with benches and tables.  Located on the northwest corner of the block the Courthouse sits on.



D.C. EVEREST PARK (Map)
1800 S 3rd Avenue
Wausau, WI 54401

Update:  November 15, 2011

Directions:  From Grand Avenue in Wausau go west on Thomas Street to south on 3rd Avenue to the park entrance.

This 12 acre park is one of two offering Lake Wausau access.  DC Everest Park has two boat launches, a handicap accessible, floating fishing pier, a park shelter with concession facilities, restrooms, drinking water, benches, picnic tables, and portable bleachers.  D.C. Everest also hosts the Central Wisconsin Water Ski Show Team Inc. which performs during the summer through Labor Day.



DELLS OF THE EAU CLAIRE PARK (Map)
P2150 CTH Y
Aniwa, WI 54408

Directions: From Wausau take CTH Z (Franklin Street) east 14 miles to CTH Y, CTH Y north 1 1/2 miles to park; OR STH 52 east to CTH Y, CTH Y south to park.

West side of CTH Y:
Enclosed Shelter - No tents/canopies allowed. Shelter key will unlock post near shelter to allow vehicle access to shelter area. Holds 70 people, kitchen area, scattered tables, electricity, 2 covered wings, picnic tables, windows open, electrical outlets, water pump (well), 2 fireplaces, firewood. Outside: walk to rocks & trails, playground equipment near by, dumpster, recycle center, grills, vault toilets, scattered picnic tables, firewood house, 2 open shelters with grills, open play areas, horseshoe pits, paved, path.
Group campsite: Open grassy area, picnic tables, little fire ring, roofed-in bleachers, vault toilets.

East side of CTH Y:
Campground: 28 sites, 16 w/electricity, self-registration for numbered sites, gravel camp areas, vault toilet, wood shed, manager contact cottage, 1 picnic table per campsite, water pump, recycling station, dumpster.
Beach: Open shelter with tables, paved path, changing room, vault toilets, dumpster, picnic tables scattered, scattered grills, water pump & shelter, sand bottom, open grassy area, open shelter, recycling station, and hiking trails. No pets on the beach or picnic areas.

South of the river and on the west side of CTH Y:
There is an open shelter with permanent picnic tables but without electicity, access to the state scientific area that affords access to many natural features of the ear, hiking trail to the High Bridge and a trail that connects to the Ice Age Trail, pit toilets, scattered picnic tables, parking lot.



LIBRARY PARK
106 W Washington Street
Wausau, WI 54403

This 1 acre park is located on the west side of the Marathon County Library.  Offers a view of the river, and benches.



MARATHON PARK (Map)
1201 Stewart Avenue
Wausau, WI 54401

Directions:  From I39/US 51 in Wausau go east on STH 52.  STH 52 merges into Stewart Avenue.  Park entrance is on the right in the huge stand of white pine trees.

Marathon Park's 78 acres are enclosed within a bustling metropolitan area and within minutes of many growing communities.  Hundreds of stately, towering white pines provide a dramatic natural setting for the recently constructed Amphitheater, central Wisconsin's finest, permanent outdoor venue with a seating capacity of nearly 10,000.

From the impressive, sheltered Amphitheater on the west to East Gate Hall at the east entrance, a myriad of events can be accommodated.  Marathon Park offers event planners flexibility and convenience with its signature, historic Exhibition Building, four Agricultural Buildings, two large Multipurpose Buildings and a wide open Festival Grounds.  Ample parking, secured access to the facilities you rent and a friendly, cooperative support staff can help make your next concert, show or event a huge success.

Beyond providing a differsified event venue Marathon Park is also home to a miniature train and concessions at Marathon Junction, a Splash Pad, outdoor dog exercise area, a campground with heated shower building, a variety of small to mid sized reservable shelters, several playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball court, walking trails, and two baseball diamonds.

The Amphitheater: The Amphitheater is fast becoming a favorite venue for events ranging from musical concerts to demolition derbies, fireworks displays, tractor pulls and more.  There is permanent seating for 4,090.  1,214 of these seats are under cover.  Up to 5,100 additional spectators can stand or 3,000 can sit on lawn chairs between the permanent seating and the stage.  When you add 1,130 lawn blanket seats and other standing room capacity The Amphitheater can accommodate up to 10,000 spectators. The Amphitheater at Marathon Park was designed acoustically and aesthetically on a gently sloping earthen berm to ensure the best possible open-air show experience in a unique, natural environment. A permanent, ramped five-foot high concrete stage (40 feet by 60 feet) provides a safe and secure performance platform and can expand to 2,640 square feet.  Three phase, 600 amp power is easily accessible at the stage; in addition the stage can accommodate virtually any lighting or audio system a promoter may supply.

East Gate Hall: East Gate Hall is located at the Park's east entrance and is available for year-round use.  Seating is available for 500 with total event capacity for 800.  Formerly known as the Youth Building because it is used for that purpose during the annual Wisconsin Valley Fair, this venue offers a perfect location for smaller music concerts, business meetings, sales shows, wedding receptions, class reunions and other small to medium sized events. This clean, modern building was remodeled in 1999 and feature ample lighting, a serving kitchen with 4 sinks, countertops, refrigerator, cupboards, restrooms, and handicapped accessibility. The Stone Wing, adjacent to East Gate Hall and under the same roof, is a large unfurnished stone-walled structure appropriate for a variety of uses.  It's included with the rental of East Gate Hall and can accommodate up to 150 people.

Exhibition Building: Marathon Parks's signature structure and centerpiece is the distinctive and historic Exhibition Building.  Built in 1924, the Exhibition Building was originally intended for agricultural exhibits.  Today, it serves as a vendor center for produce, cookery, crafts, and services during the annual Wisconsin Valley Fair every August. Spaces in the non-heated Exhibition Building are available for rental from early May through September (except during the week of the Fair) for events such as flea markets or other sales, shows, or exhibitis where individual stalls are needed.  In winter months, the space can be rented for boat and trailer storage. The wood-constructed building features an impressive wooden dome and a central hexagonal rotunda serving as the "hub" for six wings.  Four of these wings are available for rental.  All four wings don't need to be rented for smaller events.  Each wing features 11-foot by 12-foot booths opening to central aisles.  The North and Northwest Wings contain public restrooms.  Concrete ramps and 12-foot wide doors provide access to most wings.

The Festival Grounds: In addition to the numerous permanent shelters and buildings throughout Marathon Park, the wide-open spaces of the Festival Grounds provide a versatile outdoor exhibit and multi-purpose area. Located just south of The Amphitheater, the level, grassy Festival Grounds is a perfect space for a variety of uses, from special events to overflow camping and/or parking.  Measuring approximately 400 feet by 650 feet, the Festival Grounds provide an expanse that can be utilized for soccer tournaments, outdoor RV shows, circuses, boat shows, fireworks launch area or as an event staging and support area. A new restroom and shelter building is located at the eastern edge of the Festival Grounds.  All other Marathon Park buildings, areas and amenities are within easy walking distance of the Festival Grounds.

The Multi-Purpose and Agricultural Buildings: Two spacious, modern steel buildings, a small, historic octagonal pavilion, and several other event/exhibit structures are also available.  Marathon Park features several historic structures originally designed for agricultural exhibiting and judging; today they're available for a variety of other uses. Among Marathon Park's updated amenities are two large Multi-Purpose Buildings - featuring year-round heating in one building, ice rinks for hockey and public skating, restrooms and concessions.  The heated building can seat up to 900 people for a special event. Other smaller buildings include several unheated structures that can accommodate all types of spring, summer, and autumn events.  Flea markets, and antique shows, vintage automobile rallies, swap meets,  hobbyist exhibits, youth and agricultural project competitions - these type events will find ample room and easy access for exhibitors and visitors.

Ingwal S. Horgen Farm Museum: This museum is located on the east side of the Exhibition Building at Marathon Park.  The museum was established July 31, 1965.  Ingwal S. Horgen, Park Commissioner at the time, began collecting farm equipment, hand tools, household utensils, and other related items.  In 1974, the present facility was constructed to house the collection.  The museum is open from May 1 through October 15 by appointment, and during the annual Wisconsin Valley Fair.  Call Randy Block, Curator, at 715.355.8792 to make an appointment.  There is no charge for admission, however donations are appreciated.

MISSION LAKE PARK (Map)
400 County Park Road
Hatley, WI 54440

Directions: From Wausau take US 51 south 12 miles to STH 153, STH 153 east 15 miles to CTH Y, CTH Y north 1 mile to Crooked Lake Road, Crooked Lake Road east 1 1/2 miles to south into the park; OR STH 29 east to Hatley, south on CTH Y approximately 7 miles to Crooked Lake Road, east 1.5 miles to south into the park.
 

• Large open shelter at top of the hill is reservable for group size up to 75 people; no electricity
• 2 small open shelters
• Horseshoe pits
• Boat landing (Speed Limit: No person shall operate any water craft in excess of 5 mph on Mission Lake.)
• Grills
• Paved paths
• Volleyball standards
• Beach with a changing room
• Playground equipment
• Open play areas
• Vault toilets
• Water pump
• Garbage dumpster with a recycling station

REITBROCK GEOGRAPHICAL MARKER
5651 Meridian Road
Athens, WI 54411

Directions:  From Wausau go west on STH 29 to north on CTH H, to west on CTH U to Poniatowski, park is 1/4 mile west of Poniatowski.

The Reitbrock Geographical Marker is a 0.1 acre park in northwest Marathon County.  The geographical marker sits on a rectangular piece of land with dimensions of 50 feet wide by 125 feet long.  Its only feature is a marker that designates the geopgraphical center of the northern one-half of the western hemisphere.



RIB FALLS PARK(Map)
1725 CTH S
Edgar, WI 54426

Directions: From Wausau take STH 29 west 13 miles to CTH S, CTH S north 2 miles to park.
 
The Rib Falls Lions Club assists with park maintenance through the Adopt-A-Park Program. Well, open shelter, paved path, playground equipment, picnic area, hiking trails, fishing, vault toilets.



SUNNY VALE PARK (Map)
1000 S. 72nd Avenue
Wausau, WI 54401

Directions: From Wausau take STH 29 west 3 miles to 72nd Ave., 72nd Avenue south 1/2 mile to park.

This is a well used 300 acre park located on the west side of Wausau.  Popular activities at this park include swimming, fishing, picnicking, and using the model airplane flying area.  There are no lifeguards on duty at the lake; swim at your own risk.  There is a roped off swim area, 2 open shelters with grills & stationary tables, scattered grills, changing room, picnic tables, vault toilet, water pump & 2 shelters, 2 volleyball courts (bring your own net), hiking trail around lake, fishing pier, paved paths, dumpster and recycling station.  The Big Rib River flows through the park however, there is no developed access provided to the river. 

Sunny Vale Softball Complex
1000 S 66th Avenue
Wausau, WI 54401

Directions:  From Wausau take STH 29 west 3 miles to south on 72nd Avenue 1/2 mile to east on Packer Drive 1/2 mile to south on 66th Ave to entrance.

The 5 diamond Sunny Vale Softball Complex is a 71 acre recreation area that provides facilities for organized softball activities.  The softball complex, which is managed by the Wausau Area Softball Association through a contract with Marathon County, has facilities which include:

• 5 lighted softball fields each with dugouts, bleachers, score boards, and press box.
• Concession stand with restrooms
• Centrally located parking lot
• Open sided shelters 

 

Diamond Use - $20.00 per game

Field Lights - $38.00 per hour