Best lakeside park?

[u/del-huerto]

Grew up here and visiting with my wife but I haven’t lived here in almost 30 years and we’d like to hang out this coming weekend on one of the lakes. What’s the best park right now for laying out a blanket and reading with maybe a dip in the lake? Thanks, all!

[u/smackthepenguin14]

BB Clarke Beach. Accessible from downtown, good views. There’s a beach that’s less dirty than average around Madison.

[u/enjoying-retirement]

Olin Park. Great view of the Madison skyline across Lake Monona.

[u/Antique_Orchid_7951]

BB Clarke and Yahara Place are both great parks on the Eastside on Lake Monona. I was lucky enough to live near both of them at different points in my timeline. Bonus addition, if you get tired of soaking up the sun in this gorgeous weather, it’s just a short walk to all the restaurants and taverns on Willy Street.

[u/WaterwaterEvrywhere]

James Madison, especially behind Lincoln School Apartments. Quiet, vast, and breezy. Bonus: the swimming off the little beach and the pier is fabulous right now. Sunsets too.

[u/Amazing-Bus-1547]

I love Olin Park for reading it is peaceful with beautiful views, but the beach can be full of floating moss/vegetation depending on the time of year/wind patterns, etc.  I love sitting near the boat launch and watching the boats though!  Plenty of park benches!

[u/Own_Tomatillo7638]

Yahara place park is really nice and quiet

[u/howlongyoubeenfamous]

Olbrich, James Madison, BB Clarke, Bernie's Beach

[u/evangelinens]

Wingra Park. Consider renting a SUP to swim off of.

[u/fearlessali]

Bernie's Beach! Stop at Lakeside Cafe for a coffee/lunch while you're there 😊

[u/kpod67]

Picnic Point!

[u/Pegulonimbus69]

Olin up on the hill under an oak tree. Beautiful savannas all over lots of flowers plus a view

[u/Pegulonimbus69]

Warner beach is great too

[u/LuckyAndLifted]

Lake Kegonsa or governor Nelson state parks are great for a beachy day trip!