Friends of Hartman Creek State Park

06/16/2026

We had an interesting walk around Allen Lake last Saturday on our Nature's Potpourri Hike. So many birds, insects, plants and fungus to learn about. Thank you to naturalist Anita Carpenter for leading us and for the knowledge shared by the participants.

06/10/2026

This spring we held a series of Invasive Species Workdays to pull garlic mustard and cut buckthorn. Thank you to those who came out to help us put a dent in the spread of these species. Garlic mustard and buckthorn are not native, and are aggressive invaders of our woodlands. They out compete our native plants and can completely take over large areas. We plan to cut buckthorn in September and continue the process next year. We are thankful for the folks who volunteered their time this spring. Watch for more opportunities to help keep our park looking good.

05/25/2026

Last Saturday Jane Kelly from On the Wing brought some awesome educational birds to the Park: Harris Hawk, Red-Tailed Hawk, Screech Owl, Barn Owl, and a Turkey Vulture. We saw them up close and learned how hawks and owls offer the best free rodent control. And Turkey Vultures provide road-kill clean-up services free of charge, too! Please don't use rat and mouse poisons because it also kills the owls, hawks, and other critters that eat the poisoned rats and mice! Traps are the better way to control rodents in addition to welcoming hawks and owls to your property. Thanks for attending our program and caring about these beautiful birds.

05/19/2026

A big thank you to Friends' board members, Thomas, Steve and Ingmar, for replacing some rotten boards on the back of the amphitheater a couple weeks ago. Looks great!

05/18/2026

On May 9 we enjoyed our 2nd Bird Walk which was along the D**e Trail on Hartman Lake. We found 31 species of birds and were serenaded by the beautiful bird songs of Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Baltimore Orioles, Wood Thrushes, Common Yellowthroats, Yellow Warblers, and so many more.

03/02/2026

02/04/2026

Hartman Creek State Park is hiring seasonal staff!
APPLY BY FEBRUARY 12.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now hiring seasonal staff for Wisconsin's state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas. A wide range of position types are available that include opportunities in land management, outdoor recreation and education.

Limited-term seasonal positions with the Wisconsin State Park System are a great way to spend your summer outside, helping the public enjoy Wisconsin's natural resources and creating lasting memories.

Seasonal staff are responsible for outdoor maintenance, facility maintenance, grounds keeping work, and customer service for property visitors. Limited-term seasonal positions provide valuable experience for a career in natural resources, an opportunity to gain or improve your skill set and the chance to contribute to a positive outdoor experience for millions of visitors.

Here's the link to learn more:
https://wj.wi.gov/psc/wisjobs/CAREERS/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=1&PostingSeq=1&JobOpeningId=19886&

01/31/2026

While Hartman Creek State Park has to skip its annual Winter Candlelight Hike (due to temporary park staffing constraints), we encourage everyone to support our good friends at City of Waupaca Parks and Recreation on February 14th. Get out there and embrace winter. Don't forget your skates!

12/30/2025

Cross Country ski trails are groomed and ready at Hartman Creek State Park. Get out there and enjoy!

12/15/2025

Take a winter walk through Hartman Creek State Park!

The Christmas countdown is on!

With 12 days left, we’ve put together festive activities for each day so you can make the MOST of the holiday season here in Waupaca. From cozy dinners and snowy trails to local shopping, lights, and family fun... save this as your merry little guide to the days ahead!
..and follow along as we countdown with you! 👀🎄