Jacksonport, WI: Lodging, Dining, Attractions & More

Jacksonport is a popular destination in Door County, Wisconsin. This page will help you learn more about:

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Jacksonport Lodging

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Posts about Lodging in Jacksonport

Posts about Dining in Jacksonport

Check out our posts to learn more about Jacksonport best restaurants, breweries, supper clubs, bars, and food trucks.

Posts About Jacksonport Attractions and Things To Do

Check out our posts on things to do in Jacksonport to learn more about Jacksonport shopping, attractions, museums, sights, parks, and more.

Grid of images including an American flag, a bonfire on Lake Michigan, and a fair midway. Superimposed text says: Events.

Door County Events

Explore the best events in Door County! From art fairs to food festivals, find your perfect outing in our latest blog post.
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Grid with beach scenes and superimposed text that says: Clark Lake Beach.

Clark Lake Beach

Discover Clark Lake Beach in Door County, WI. Blear waters, a sand beach, and good times await you at this fun spot.
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Whitefish Dunes Beach

Whitefish Dunes Beach

Discover the hidden gem of Whitefish Dunes Beach in Door County, WI! Learn about amenities, safety tips, fees, and more in this guide.
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All Posts About Jacksonport

Grid with beach scenes and superimposed text that says: Clark Lake Beach.

Clark Lake Beach

Discover Clark Lake Beach in Door County, WI. Blear waters, a sand beach, and good times await you at this fun spot.
Read More
Whitefish Dunes Beach

Whitefish Dunes Beach

Discover the hidden gem of Whitefish Dunes Beach in Door County, WI! Learn about amenities, safety tips, fees, and more in this guide.
Read More
Grid of images including an American flag, a bonfire on Lake Michigan, and a fair midway. Superimposed text says: Events.

Door County Events

Explore the best events in Door County! From art fairs to food festivals, find your perfect outing in our latest blog post.
Read More
Collage of Devil's Cauldron at Cave Point County Park, a large wave at Cave Point County Park, and a sunrise over Lake Michigan. Superimposed text reads: Jacksonport, WI.

General Information About Jacksonport

Differentiation

“Jacksonport” can refer either to the Town of Jacksonport or the unincorporated village of Jacksonport. This terminology can be confusing because for many people “town” and “village” refer to roughly the same thing. However, these terms have distinct meanings in Wisconsin state law.

To put it briefly, the Town of Jacksonport is a large area of Door County, and it is an administrative subunit of the county. The incorporated village of Jacksonport is a more tightly developed village along the shore of Lake Michigan, north of Sturgeon Bay and south of Baileys Harbor.

The following two sections will help you understand the difference between and town and a village a little better.

Towns in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has 1,253 towns. The legal definition of a town in the State of Wisconsin is different than the common definition of town that many people use. Many people think of towns as having an urban or suburban pattern of settlement. However, according to Wisconsin State Law, any land that is not covered by a municipality like a city or a village is part of a town.

Towns in Wisconsin have historically had a rural character. However, this is not always the case. Some towns have experienced much growth and have suburban and even urban settlement patterns.

Town populations can range from 40 residents to over 22,000 residents.

Towns are general-purpose units of local government that perform and provide various kinds of municipal functions and services.

Towns in the State of Wisconsin include Jacksonport, Sevastopol, and Clay Banks.

Jacksonport, Wisconsin is a small town located in Door County, on the shores of Lake Michigan. According to the 2020 Census, the population of the Town of Jacksonport is 878.

The latitude and longitude of Jacksonport are 44.95° N and 87.16° W, and its GPS coordinates are 44.95, -87.16. The elevation of Jacksonport is 579 feet above sea level.

Villages in Wisconsin

The State of Wisconsin has many villages. There are two different types of villages: incorporated villages and unincorporated villages.

Unincorporated villages are designated for the sake of convenience, but they do not have any formal status under Wisconsin State Law. Jacksonport is an example of an unincoporated village.

On the other hand, incorporated villages have the status of incorporated settlements under Wisconsin State Law. They can have either the president-village board or the village board-village manager structure of local government. Ephraim is an incorporated village.

The vast majority of villages in the state of Wisconsin utilize the president-village board structure. Under the president-village board structure of local government, both the president and the village board are elected by the public. Under the village board-village manager structure, the village board is publicly elected, and the village board appoints the village manager.

There are 411 incorporated villages in the State of Wisconsin. These include villages like Sister Bay, Forestville, and Ashwaubenon.

Jacksonport History

Native History

Before European settlement, the area that is now Jacksonport, Wisconsin was home to various Native American tribes, including the Menominee, Potawatomi. These tribes lived in the region for thousands of years and had a deep connection to the land and its natural resources. The way of life of these tribes is demonstrated at the nearby Whitefish Dunes State Park.

Post-European Settlement

Jacksonport, Wisconsin has a rich history dating back to its founding in the mid-19th century. Originally a bustling lumber town, Jacksonport was a hub for the shipment of lumber from the surrounding forests. Ships from all over the Great Lakes would dock at the long piers in Jacksonport, making it a key location in the logging industry.

As the logging industry declined in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Jacksonport shifted towards agriculture and tourism. The fertile farmland in the area provided ample opportunities for farmers, while the town’s scenic beauty and proximity to Lake Michigan made it an attractive destination for tourists.

Today, Jacksonport is a charming and peaceful town, known for its rural character and close-knit community. Although the town has changed over the years, it still boasts a rich history and a strong connection to the land, reflecting its roots as a former lumber town and agricultural center.

Popular Events

Maifest is a traditional German festival that takes place in Jacksonport in May. This annual event features live music, delicious food, and fun activities for families. Visitors can enjoy traditional German dance performances, sample authentic German cuisine, and participate in contests and games. Maifest is a celebration of spring and the coming of summer, and is a beloved tradition in Jacksonport, attracting visitors from all over the state.

The Polar Bear Plunge is a winter event that takes place in Jacksonport each year. Participants brave the cold waters of Lake Michigan to raise funds for local charities. This event is a true test of courage, as participants jump into the freezing water in the middle of winter. Despite the cold, the Polar Bear Plunge is a popular event in Jacksonport and a great way for the community to come together and support local causes. Whether you’re watching from the shore or taking the plunge yourself, the Polar Bear Plunge is a unique and exciting event not to be missed.

Geographical Features

Jacksonport is renowned for its natural beauty and unique geographical features. The Niagara Escarpment, which runs through this area, has withstood the power of glaciers, creating stunning cliffs and rock formations that are a must-see for any nature enthusiast. Jacksonport is also located on the shores of Lake Michigan, which offers breathtaking views and access to some of the finest beaches in the state.

The area around Jacksonport has a number of parks and nature reserves, including Cave Point County Park and Whitefish Dunes State Park. Cave Point County Park is famous for its underwater caves and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and kayaking. Whitefish Dunes State Park, on the other hand, is a haven for wildlife and offers miles of walking trails and beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

The unique natural features of Jacksonport has made it home to a variety of endangered species, including the Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly.

Why People Love to Visit Jacksonport

People call the Lake Michigan side of Door County, including Jacksonport, the “Quiet Side” of Door County. It is a good place to get away from crowds and experience natural beauty. Whitefish Dunes State Park and Cave Point County Park are especially popular destinations for those who want to relax in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jacksonport

What is the history of Jacksonport?

Jacksonport is a small town located on the Door Peninsula of Wisconsin. It was first settled by fur traders and fisherman in the early 1800s, and it quickly became a thriving hub for the lumber and fishing industries. Today, Jacksonport is a historic and charming community that celebrates its rich history through events like the annual Maifest.

What are some popular attractions in Jacksonport?

There are many popular attractions in Jacksonport that visitors love to explore. Some of the most popular include the beaches of Lake Michigan, Cave Point County Park, and Whitefish Dunes State Park. The area is also home to a number of unique shops, restaurants, and galleries that showcase the region’s local arts and culture.

What kind of wildlife can be found in Jacksonport?

Jacksonport is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including whitetail deer, pelicans, and bald eagles. The area is also home to several endangered species, including the Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly. Visitors can experience this rich wildlife by exploring the parks, hiking trails, and beaches of the Door Peninsula of Wisconsin.