Marshall Park — Attraction in Madison

The park has a nice combination of things to do and access to the lake. Generally nice and mellow. The playground isn't nearly as large as the nearby Lakeview Park, but that usually means that it's not as crowded. My kids never complained about it, and ran around with the other kids. There's a shelter you can reserve for parties/large picnics which is of to the side and somewhat separated from the main action of the park. There are canoe rentals in the summer. I've seen the boat launch get kinda crowded, but it seems to work smoothly. I frequently use the park as my lake access for cross country skiing into the lake...

The best boat launch in Dane county and not bad for shore fishing if you're looking for panfish. It also has one of the only sandy beach areas in Madison. Lots of parking options are available too. And if things get crowded, parking on the grass in designated areas is allowed. The green space is well maintained. There are volleyball courts, jungle gyms, grills, a gazebo.

The only downside is that when the wind blows just right, algae blooms can get pushed into and "trapped" in the launch area. It doesn't happen often, but when it does...

I really like this park...I've been going they're since 1999. For one it has a great view of the Capitol building across Lake Mendota. I've NEVER encountered any type of trouble or lewd behavior. They have boat rentals and a boat launch. I haven't walked over the entire area, but I've never seen it crowded. They have restrooms, benches, sand, a deck for events, and trails/wooded area. It's easily accessible with decent parking for trucks/trailers and cars. I've never seen it...