Why You Should Check out the Stunning Kangaroo Lake
Are you craving a little outdoor adventure on your next vacation? Door County is home to beautiful state parks, little-known islands, and charming beaches. It’s the perfect place to spend a day fishing, birdwatching, swimming, or hiking. Kangaroo Lake is a local favorite spot for outdoor activities.
Exploring the largest inland lake in Door County is just one of many attractions on the peninsula. Request our free Vacation Guide for our list of recommendations on the best things to do in Door County!
Everything You Need to Know About Kangaroo Lake
How Did Kangaroo Lake Get Its Name?
The reason for Kangaroo Lake’s unusual name is shrouded in mystery. The inland lake was settled in the early 19th century by Scandinavian, Irish and German immigrants. Maps of Lake Michigan from as early as 1825 show the name “Cangaroo Lake,” which is believed to be an alteration of the Native American name for the area.
Today, the lake’s name is thought to come from its unique shape. Its head is the north end, its pouch the mid-east side, and its feet the south end. Don’t believe us? Check out this aerial map to see for yourself!
What to Do at Kangaroo Lake
Go For a Nature Walk
Kangaroo Lake is an excellent place for public recreation in Door County. One of the best ways to take in the scenery is to go for a walk or run around the 10-mile perimeter of the lake. Look around you, take in a deep breath of fresh air, and enjoy the beautiful nature around you. Kangaroo Lake has plenty of marked trails to ensure that visitors don’t disturb the wildflowers and forest floor.
Birdwatching and Photography
Birdwatching and photo opportunities are endless around the lake. Explore the shoreline of Kangaroo Lake and observe birds, wildflowers, and other wildlife. Springtime brings spot gulls, cranes, and pelicans to the lake while summer welcomes indigo buntings, scarlet tanagers, and rose-breasted grosbeaks. If you’re looking for a picture perfect moment, arrive at the nature preserve early in the morning for a fantastic sunrise.
Fishing
Kangaroo Lake is an excellent spot for fishing. The lake’s maximum depth is 12 feet, and it covers over 1,100 acres. During the warmer months, you’ll find plenty of locals casting their lines in the shallow banks. Some of the fish you might reel in at Kangaroo Lake include perch, smallmouth bass, walleye, largemouth bass, and bluegill.
For those eager to fish in deeper waters, there’s a primary boat landing on the mid-east side of the lake. Make sure that your boat follows the lake’s regulations. No large power boats are allowed as their engines disturb the shallow lake. Don’t forget to check their “area to avoid” map before heading out on the water.
Water Sports
During the summer, there are even more fun ways to enjoy Kangaroo Lake! Sailing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, swimming, water skiing, and tubing are a few of our favorites. If you need equipment for your day of play, check out Lakeshore Adventures. They rent out kayaks, paddle boards, and even pontoon boats!
End Your Day at The Ashbrooke
Complete your visit to Door County with a stay at The Ashbrooke! After a day of exploring Kangaroo Lake, you and your special someone can enjoy a romantic night in one of our deluxe guest rooms and suites.
If you’re looking for added romance, book one of our Grand Whirlpool Suites. Enjoy a private, two-room suite with a king bedroom and separate living room. Relax after a day of adventuring in Door County with a soak in your in-room, two-person whirlpool. Dry off by the gas-burning fireplace and spend a night of pure bliss. Can you think of anything better?
Does a Door County getaway sound like your perfect trip? Check our availability and start planning your romantic retreat today!