620 Elm Drive, Madison WI 53706
The East Recreation Fields are the final completed project of the Master Plan.
The primary uses of the East Recreation Fields are intramural sports, sport club practices and events, and open recreation.
Hours of Operation
East Fields
| Dates | Hours |
|---|---|
| November 27 – March 14 | CLOSED |
| March 15 - November 25 | Sunrise to 9pm |
FAQs
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
How do I reserve the turf?
As is the case for all Rec Well facilities and outdoor spaces, the turf field can be reserved for special events by student organizations, university departments or community groups. To rent space, fill out our Special Events Request Form online. On this site, you will also find policies, procedures, requirements, and pricing.
Where is the main entry to the facility?
The main entrance to the facility is on Elm Drive across from the Observatory Recreation Area.
Which lines are permanent on the field?
This site is the destination for several organized sports. Five small-sided soccer field have full permanent lines on the field. Lacrosse, field hockey and ultimate frisbee can be added with synthetic turf paint as necessary.
Is sports equipment available for checkout?
No, but you are welcome to bring your own equipment for use. Any equipment requiring stakes is not permitted on the turf.
Why are the goals locked?
Our smaller goals are locked up when they are not being used for scheduled activities. This decision is to protect the quality of the fields and ultimately provide a safe space for individuals to use. We have seen continued damage and unsafe playing conditions created from people incorrectly moving and placing goals across these fields.
Where are the bathrooms?
Bathrooms are located in the building by the main entrance. Bathrooms are open when there is scheduled programming on the fields.
Where are the water fountains?
Water fountains are located in the building by the main entrance.
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
When do the lights shut off?
The lights are scheduled to remain on during scheduled programming such as Intramural Sports, Sport Clubs, or special events. When these programs are not scheduled, the lights are on from sunset to 9pm.
Can I bring tents onto the turf?
Tents or other equipment requiring stakes are not permitted on the turf. Tents that can be secured with water barrels or other approved weights are allowed.
Can I wear cleats on the turf?
Rubber or plastic cleats are permitted on the turf. Metal cleats are not allowed.
Can I have food or drinks on the field?
Water in sealable and shatterproof containers is permitted within the facility, but no other food or drink is allowed.
Are kites allowed on the turf?
Due to the close proximity to the UW Hospital and the need to medevac patients, kites are not permitted.
Are drones allowed on the turf?
In accordance with UW-Madison Policies and Guidelines and FAA requirements, drones are not allowed.
Can I bring my pet?
Service animals are permitted on the West Recreation Fields. No other pets are allowed on the fields.
Getting There
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
Parking
- Linden Drive Ramp (Lot 67) (1 minute walk): located at 2002 Linden Drive. Controlled at all times, limited visitor parking availability, pay at gated exit.
- Observatory Drive Ramp (Lot 36) (3 minute walk): located at 1645 Observatory Drive. Controlled at all times, limited visitor parking availability, pay at gated exit.
- Lot 12 (1 minute walk): 1850 Linden Drive. Controlled 7am – 4:30pm Monday – Friday, Free after 4:30pm & all day Saturday and Sunday. Timed parking stalls may be available.
- Lot 37 (1 minute walk): 651 Elm Drive. Controlled 7am – 4:30pm Monday – Friday, Free after 4:30pm & all day Saturday and Sunday. Timed parking stalls may be available.
- Lot 39 (2 minute walk): 1811 Linden Drive. Controlled 7am – 4:30pm Monday – Friday, Free after 4:30pm & all day Saturday and Sunday. Timed parking stalls may be available.
- Lot 57 (1 minute walk): 632 Willow Drive. Controlled 7am – 4:30pm Monday – Friday, Free after 4:30pm & all day Saturday and Sunday.
Lot 58 (1 minute walk): 1975 Willow Drive. Controlled 7am – 4:30pm Monday – Friday, Free after 4:30pm & all day Saturday and Sunday. Timed parking stalls may be available.
For more information on campus parking, check out the parking website for maps, restricted parking times, and more.
Bus
- Convenient bus lines include route A, B, 80, 81, 82, 84
Biking & Walking
- The Howard-Temin Lakeshore Path
- Bike and moped stalls are available in front of the West Rec gates and at Bakke