Door County’s natural scenery is one of the area’s main draws. With the many state parks, county parks, nature preserves, and other fascinating natural areas, your options for exploration and recreation are nearly endless. We’re more than happy to recommend some of our favorite Door County parks that you certainly won’t want to skip.
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9 Door County Parks You’ll Love
The Door County peninsula is home to a plethora of breathtaking parks featuring biking trails, hiking trails, sandy beaches, lakes, lookout points, and more!
State Parks in Door County
1. Potawatomi State Park
Stretching across two miles of the Green Bay shoreline, Potawatomi State Park is the perfect destination for outdoor exploration. With its many miles of biking and hiking trails, groomed ski trails in the winter, and a boat ramp for those who want to venture into the bay, this park is 1178 acres of pure outdoor fun. The observation tower is most likely one of the park’s most beloved attractions and rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the bay, rolling terrains, and limestone cliffs.
2. Peninsula State Park
Located along the bay, this park in Door County reigns as the largest state park in the area spanning over more than 3000 acres. No matter what time of year you go, there is always something to do. During the warmer months, you can golf on the 18-hole golf course or go swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Cooler months provide the perfect conditions for snowmobiling and sledding. Plus, Peninsula State Park offers an abundance of nature programs to enjoy where you can spend hours bird watching, hiking through a hemlock cedar forest, or learning about astronomy while gazing through a telescope into the night sky. It’s also home to the historic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse.
3. Rock Island State Park
You can only get to Rock Island State Park by ferry, making it a unique Door County park! This island is visited by locals and visitors alike and has many biking trails, hiking paths, and beaches to explore.
4. Newport State Park
Newport State Park is Wisconsin’s only formally designated wilderness park. Visitors from all over the nation flock to this local park for its world-famous stargazing opportunities. It is one of only 48 designated parks on the planet for viewing the dark sky. During the warmer months, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the eastern night skies and the stunning aurora borealis northern lights!
5. Whitefish Dunes State Park
Located alongside Lake Michigan in Sturgeon Bay, this waterside wonderland is the perfect spot to revel in Door County’s natural beauty. You can spend the entire day at Whitefish Dunes State Park enjoying activities such as swimming, boating, hiking, and picnicking. You’ll also find a re-creation of the villages where Door County’s original settlers lived. It’s the best way to take a step back in time and experience what life was like in Door County hundreds of years ago.
Other Door County Parks and Nature Centers
6. Cave Point County Park
This hidden gem is a sightseeing treasure that allows you to explore sea caves formed by powerful waves pounding against the bluffs. This park spans over 19 acres and features a hiking trail and several lovely spots to have an afternoon picnic or watch the sunset. A rocky shoreline and spectacular water sprays add to why it is an all-time Door County favorite.
7. Egg Harbor Beach Park
When you stay with us at The Ashbrooke Hotel, you’ll be a short walk away from Egg Harbor Beach Park. This popular destination includes a picturesque beach and picnic pavilion, a playground area, and a swimming area. It’s a fantastic spot for splashing in the water on a hot day, building sandcastles, or lounging in a chair and taking in panoramic vistas.
8. Schoolhouse Beach
Located on Washington Island, Schoolhouse Beach is one of five beaches globally like it and is a part of the Niagara Escarpment. This protected harbor area offers opportunities for swimming and diving. The beach also provides picnic tables and grills for the perfect beach day.
9. Frank Murphy County Park
This 14-acre park is located on Horseshoe Bay, south of Egg Harbor. Notable features include 1,600 feet of sandy beach, boat launching facilities, a dock, a picnic area, a volleyball court, and a playground area. Parking and restroom facilities are available.
Relax at The Ashbrooke Hotel
After a full day of experiencing our outstanding local parks, come back and unwind at The Ashbrooke Hotel. Located in the heart of Door County, we offer numerous amenities, including luxurious rooms, an indoor pool, and easy access to all of Door County’s great restaurants, museums, galleries, and more. To save you money and make the most out of your trip, we always offer top-notch specials and packages!