Wisconsin Selected Park Pass Design Winner

A Delavan-Darien High School student won the annual design contest for the state vehicle admission pass.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in National Parks

Wisconsin Selected Park Pass Design Winner

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Should local schools prioritize student participation in state-run creative design programs for public infrastructure?

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has named junior Kiet Tuan Tran as the winner of its 2027 vehicle admission pass design contest. His artwork, which features a camping theme, will be displayed on passes used for state park entry.

Why it matters

The winning design serves as the official artwork for admission passes required for motor vehicles entering state parks and recreation areas. Revenue generated from these pass sales is essential for funding the operations of the state park system.

This year marked the 36th edition of the competition, which saw more than 120 submissions from high school students across the state. The chosen design will be featured on passes valid at 60 state properties.

The players

Kiet Tuan Tran

He is a junior at Delavan-Darien High School and the winner of the 2027 Wisconsin park pass design contest.

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

This state agency manages the public park system and oversees the annual pass design competition.

The details

Kiet Tuan Tran, a student at Delavan-Darien High School, topped a field of over 120 entries to win the contest. Olive Minell and Samantha Kramer rounded out the top three finishers in the annual competition.

The winning design will be featured on 2027 vehicle admission passes.
April 30, 2027 is the deadline for students to submit entries for the 2028 contest.

Roadmap

This annual competition integrates public youth engagement into the long-standing fiscal structure of the Wisconsin state park system. By sourcing artistic contributions for state-mandated passes, the department maintains community interest in the ongoing funding of public lands.

The new 2027 admission passes will be required for all motor vehicles entering state parks and recreation areas. Residents can purchase these passes online, at state properties, service centers, or at various DMV kiosks.

The takeaway

The Wisconsin DNR design contest highlights how state agencies can effectively engage local youth while managing essential infrastructure funding. Residents should ensure they have a valid admission pass before visiting any of the 60 state-managed recreation properties.