About Friends of Council Grounds

Who We are

We are the Friends of Council Grounds State Parks

The Friends of Council Grounds State Park (FoCGSP) organization was created in 2009 to support, assist, and promote Council Grounds State Park in Merrill, Wisconsin. 

Through volunteering and fundraising efforts, FoCGSP works to improve and expand upon the educational programs, facilities, and resources available at Council Grounds State Park.

What We Have Done

We are an active group of individuals

The Friends of Council Grounds State Park has its hand in many areas at the Park!

The FoCGSP cuts and provides firewood for purchase for campers and picnickers. The proceeds of the campfire wood sales support various park initiatives and improvements. 

Financial support from the FoCGSP allowed the construction of a picnic shelter at the beach, upgrades to the historical shelter building along the river, the purchase of kiosks, canoes, kayaks, an adaptive kayak, stand up paddleboards and grills for picnic areas.

Sales of hats, tee shirts, and various other merchandise items, in the park office also support the FoCGSP’s efforts.

Members do work with invasive species control during the season.

In addition, the FoCGSP has sponsored the annual photo contest for visitors to the park, hosts the First Day Hike and candlelight walk, in the park, in October.

Quick summary of some of the things Friends has done:
  • Acquired grants and used funds to build trails, fire rings, grills, benches and bike racks
  • Removed downed and diseased trees and produced firewood to resell for Council Grounds
  • Purchased and planted flowers, native plants, and trees throughout the Park.
  • Helped run various events including bird and nature hikes and photo contests
  • Purchased and maintained Park themed merchandise for sale at contact station
  • Added a beach shelter
How to join

Friends of Council Grounds would love to have you join

Friends of Council Grounds State Park is looking for new members! Joining is easy, just fill out this form, add your payment, and send it into our office. Once a member there are plenty of opportunities to help and volunteer, or you can just be a financial supporter and keep up-to-date on our latest projects. 

If you have questions, please visit our Contact Page and send them our way. We would love to hear from you!