Who We Are
An all-volunteer non-profit supporting High Cliff State Park.
The Friends of High Cliff State Park is an all-volunteer, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Since 1997 we have worked to support, preserve, and enhance one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful state parks.
Who we are: community members, neighbors, and park lovers who give their time and talents to the park. What we do: we fund and support park improvements, host educational and nature programs, care for trails and natural areas, and help make High Cliff a welcoming place for everyone.
FOHC MISSION STATEMENT:
The Friends of High Cliff State Park strive to preserve, protect, and promote the physical, natural and historical resources of High Cliff State Park for the enjoyment and enrichment of current and future generations of park visitors. This is accomplished through volunteerism, fund raising, communications, education, events and advocacy.
What We Do
We don't list every project here, but here's the range of work our volunteers take on for High Cliff State Park.
Trails & Trail Rehabilitation
We plan, fund, and help rebuild the park's trails, from the Lime Kiln Trail to the Butterfly Pond Trail, including erosion repair, drainage, and accessible improvements.
Accessibility for All
We help make the park welcoming to every visitor, supporting projects like the accessible playground, accessible picnic tables and restrooms, and ADA-friendly buildings and walkways.
Trees, Habitat & Stewardship
We plant trees, remove invasive species and hazard trees, and restore natural habitat, including prairie areas and the park's Purple Martin colony.
Nature & Education Programs
We sponsor and support nature programs, fishing clinics, guided walks, interpretive signage, and hands-on learning for visitors of all ages.
Events & Community
We host and support dozens of community events each year, from family and history programs to seasonal celebrations and volunteer work days.
Fundraising & Park Support
Through memberships, donations, grants, and merchandise, we fund the equipment, programs, and improvements that keep High Cliff thriving.
Our Leadership
Gary Vaughan
President
"We enjoy spending time in the park, hiking and snowshoeing the various trails at High Cliff. We love volunteering and working with the rangers. We just want to give back for the next generation."
Deb Lee
Treasurer
"I love watching the seasonal changes - hikes through the park are so different with each season so beautiful in its own way."
Janet Deprez
Board Member
"I enjoy seeing the smiling faces of visitors as they enjoy the park."
Donna Franczek
Board Member
"High Cliff State Park is a rare gem in our area. With the stunning Niagara Escarpment and the gorgeous sunset views over Lake Winnebago, it has so much to offer the outdoor enthusiast. Mostly I enjoy the dog friendly trails."
Jon McElhaney
Board Member
Keith Propson
Board Member
"High Cliff Park is wonderful array of landscape features, wildlife and adventures."
Randall Funk
Board Member
"Hiking, biking, and snowshoeing at High Cliff makes me smile."
Lenai Hellweg
Board Member
"High Cliff and all its nature feeds my soul year round."
Diane Stuckrath
Board Member
"High Cliff State Park is truly a gem in our own backyard. I love walking the trails through every season. I have walked countless miles on these trails throughout the years and always enjoy seeing something new or different in nature."
Sharon Vaughan
Board Member
"High Cliff is an awesome place to slow down, relax, renew, explore, wander, observe, embrace and appreciate the natural beauty of each season!"
Dan Gretzinger
Board Member
"From hiking boots to sandals to running shoes to xc ski boots. Whether you're camping or hiking, biking, walking, running, skiing, picnicking, birding, fishing,or just relaxing. High Cliff will fit any shoe you wear. It is a wonderful place."
It's All Volunteer
Everything we accomplish is powered by volunteers who love this park. Your time, interests, and talents make a difference.
Get Involved