🍽️ Activities & Features

Expert recommendations based on quality, value, and visitor feedback

Item Price
Beach Admission (Adult, Non-Resident)
Access to swimming beaches, picnic areas, playground, and volleyball courts.
 $4.00
Beach Admission (Adult, Resident)
Discounted entry for Lake Mills residents; includes full park access.
 $3.00
Beach Admission (Youth 6-11, Non-Resident)
Children under 6 enter free; youth pricing for ages 6-11.
 $3.00
Boat Launch (Double Lane)
Access to Rock Lake for boating and fishing; ample trailer parking.
 Included w/ admission
Picnic Shelter Rental
Covered shelter with grills and tables; advance reservation recommended for groups.
 Varies (contact park)
Sand Volleyball Courts
Five courts available; bring your own ball or borrow from park office (limited supply).
 Free w/ admission
Playground & Ice Rink
Modern playground for kids; seasonal ice rink in winter months.
 Free w/ admission

Trails & Recreation: While Sandy Beach isn’t a hiking destination, it excels in lakeside recreation. The park’s centerpiece is its two gently sloping, sandy swimming beaches—perfect for families with young kids and anyone seeking a classic Wisconsin summer day. Adjacent grassy areas with shade trees provide relief from the sun, while multiple sand volleyball courts draw both casual players and local leagues. The double-lane boat ramp offers seamless access to Rock Lake for boating, kayaking, and fishing.

Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the clean restrooms (located near the main parking lot and beach), though floors can get sandy—flip-flops are a smart move. A well-equipped playground keeps kids entertained, and picnic areas (some with grills) are ideal for gatherings. The large covered shelter, available for rent, is especially popular for birthday parties and family reunions—reserve early in summer months.

Programs & Rentals: While Sandy Beach doesn’t offer formal programs or equipment rentals (like paddle boards or bikes), visitors can borrow volleyballs from the park office in limited quantities. Group events, volleyball tournaments, and seasonal activities (like ice skating in winter) are organized periodically by the city or local organizations.

Rules & Safety: There are no lifeguards—swim at your own risk. Glass containers and alcohol are prohibited on the beach. Carry-ins are allowed (pack a cooler, but leave the glass at home). Pets are not permitted on the beach itself. Seasonal admission fees apply (see table above); annual passes are available for frequent visitors. No permit is needed for day use, but shelter rentals must be reserved in advance. During late spring and early summer, local reports mention occasional swimmer’s itch—towel off immediately after swimming to minimize risk.

Accessibility & Practical Info: The park is mostly flat and accessible, with paved paths from parking to picnic and beach areas. Restrooms are ADA-compliant. Parking is ample, but fills up on hot weekends—arrive early for the best spots. There’s no on-site restaurant (yet), but vending machines are sometimes available, and plans for a future on-site eatery are in the works. Bring your own beach gear, towels, and shade tent for maximum comfort.

✨ The Experience

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Natural Setting & Scenery
Nestled on the eastern shore of Rock Lake, Sandy Beach delivers idyllic lake views, clean water, and broad sandy stretches bordered by mature shade trees. Sunsets over the water are a local highlight—pack a picnic and linger into the evening for the full lakeside effect. The vibe is relaxed, with a perfect blend of sun, sand, and green space.
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Trail Difficulty & Accessibility
While there are no hiking trails, the park’s flat terrain and paved paths make it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Getting from the parking lot to the beach or shelter is easy, and restrooms are ADA-compliant. The beach entry is gradual, making it safe for children and those with limited mobility.
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Facilities & Maintenance Quality
Research and visitor feedback consistently praise the park’s cleanliness, from the water to the restrooms. Staff regularly maintain the grounds, volleyball courts, and picnic areas. Restrooms can get sandy and wet during peak hours, so bring sandals or flip-flops for comfort.
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Crowd Levels & Peak Times
Sandy Beach is most popular on warm weekends and holidays, when parking and picnic areas can fill up by midday. Weekdays and early mornings offer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. For the best spot on the beach or quickest boat launch, arrive before 10 AM or visit on weekdays.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Are lifeguards on duty at Sandy Beach?
No, there are no lifeguards on duty. Swimming is at your own risk. Children should be supervised at all times, and flotation devices are recommended for weak swimmers.
Can I bring my own food and beverages?
Yes, carry-ins are allowed, but glass containers and alcohol are strictly prohibited. Picnic areas with grills are available, so feel free to bring your own cooler and snacks.
Is the park accessible for visitors with mobility challenges?
Yes. Parking lots, restrooms, and main paths are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. The beach has a gradual entry, and ADA-compliant restrooms are located near the main beach area.

📖 About Sandy Beach

Sandy Beach has been a beloved fixture of Lake Mills for generations, celebrated for its prime location on the shores of Rock Lake and its unwavering commitment to community recreation. The park's 14-acre lakefront is thoughtfully designed to serve families, outdoor enthusiasts, and casual visitors alike, offering everything from classic swimming and boating to organized volleyball tournaments and community picnics. The adjacent seasonal mobile home park adds a tight-knit, welcoming character, with many returning year after year. Sandy Beach’s role as a social and recreational hub is underscored by ongoing city investment, including recent proposals for a new lakeside restaurant. Whether you’re a local looking for a summer tradition or a visitor seeking authentic Wisconsin lake life, Sandy Beach is where community, nature, and recreation meet.