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National Public Lands Day Canoemobile Event

Eastern States
Northeastern States DO
Event Coordinator
BLM Northeastern States District Office
414-297-4401
BLM Office:
Northeastern States
Event Dates
–
Event Location

Lincoln Park
4950 N. Milwaukee River Parkway
Glendale, WI 53209
United States

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Join the Bureau of Land Management and partner organizations for a full day of outdoor discovery as we celebrate National Public Lands Day (NPLD) with a community Canoemobile paddle adventure! This annual celebration brings people together to enjoy, restore, and learn about America’s public lands — and this year’s Canoemobile event offers fun, education, and connection for all ages.

Event Overview

Community Paddle & NPLD Celebration
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Lincoln Park

Spend the day paddling the Milwaukee River in Wilderness Inquiry’s signature 10‑person Voyageur canoes, exploring local natural resources, and engaging with hands‑on educational activities led by BLM staff and partner organizations.

What to Expect

Guided Canoe Experiences

Take a short paddle on the Milwaukee River aboard sturdy, beginner‑friendly Voyageur canoes. Outdoor educators will guide you on the water, making this a great opportunity for first‑time paddlers.

Educational + Interactive Stations

Between paddle trips, visit land‑based activity stations staffed by BLM specialists and local partners. Activities include:

  • Public lands stewardship information
  • Leave No Trace demonstrations
  • Trivia wheel and giveaways
  • Fee‑free day coupons and NPLD materials
  • Refreshments and family‑friendly activities

Partner Participation

Local natural resource groups will join the celebration, offering additional educational displays, volunteer opportunities, and community engagement activities.

What’s New This Year

The 2026 Canoemobile celebration features an exciting new attraction — the BLM Traveling Cave & Karst Exhibit.

A large gray inflatable tunnel structure sits in a wooded outdoor area surrounded by tall green trees. A banner on the tunnel reads “Bureau of Land Management – Cave and Karst Program.” A red rope line marks the entrance area, with a small sign indicating where to enter. Nearby are equipment cases, a table with supplies, and a white trailer. The ground is covered in dirt and leaves.

This large walk‑through inflatable structure allows visitors to explore cave formations, learn about karst landscapes, and discover how BLM scientists study and protect underground environments.

Participants will also receive:

  • Hard hats and flashlights for the exhibit
  • Junior Ranger materials
  • Public lands career information

Why We Celebrate National Public Lands Day

NPLD is the nation’s largest single‑day volunteer event for public lands. It encourages people to explore green spaces, connect with their communities, and contribute to land stewardship. Whether you attend to paddle, learn, volunteer, or simply enjoy the outdoors, your participation supports healthy public lands and a stronger connection to nature.

Everyone is welcome — families, youth, educators, community groups, and first‑time paddlers.

Come celebrate National Public Lands Day with a memorable day on the water and help us showcase the beauty, value, and importance of America’s public lands.

Published on:

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.