Governor Nelson State Park is situated on the shores of the 10,000-acre Lake Mendota, where recreation and nature come together in view of the State Capitol. This day-use park features a sandy beach, a boat launch, a fish cleaning facility, picnic areas, playground equipment, and over 8 miles of trails. Visitors can also explore Native American effigy mounds along the Woodland Trail.

Governor Nelson State Park offers an accessible fishing pier and an accessible picnic shelter near the sand beach. Several of the trails are spacious, natural surfaces. The adaptive cross-country sit skis are available as the winter weather permits.