Whitefish Dunes State Park is a state park located in Door County, Wisconsin. It is a popular place to hike, swim, kayak, picnic, and learn.
State parks are like the jewels in the crown of Door County. These gems protect vital habitats and serve as access points to the peninsula’s natural beauty. Whitefish Dunes State Park is a must-see for the rare ecosystems it protects and the gorgeous waters of Lake Michigan it gives access to. Here is everything you need to know about Whitefish Dunes State Park as you consider or plan a visit.
Are you considering making Door County your next vacation destination? Door County is a great place to visit, but there’s a problem. Finding lodging in Door County is extraordinarily difficult. Fortunately, we are here to help. Read our guide to Door County’s best hotels to find the perfect lodging. It is your best place to begin your search for the perfect place to stay in Door County.
Things To Do at Whitefish Dune State Park
Whitefish Dunes State park has many things to do. Here are some of them:
Hiking
Whitefish Dunes State Park has about 14.5 miles of hiking trails available. Hello Door County’s favorite trail is the yellow/green trail just on the other side of the dunes from the Lake, between the Dunes and Clark Lake Road. This trail will lead you through an area between sand dunes, a rare topography and ecosystem not experienced in many other places in North America. In addition to the unique topography and plant life, it offers a unique and beautiful topography with a peaceful ambiance.
Swimming at Whitefish Dunes State Park
Swimming is permitted on the beach at Whitefish Dunes State Park. A couple of tips about swimming at Whitefish Dunes:
First, you will probably only want to swim here from mid-July through mid-August, when the air temperatures are high and the water has warmed up as well. Before this time, you will probably want to swim on the Green Bay side of Door County. However, when it gets hot, this is a wonderful place to cool down.
Second, Whitefish Bay is susceptible to strong rip currents in certain wind conditions. Keep a close eye on conditions, and pay special attention to children and weak swimmers.
For more information about this great beach check out our comprehensive post on the Whitefish Dunes Beach.
When the conditions are right, the beach at Whitefish Dunes State Park is a wonderful place to swim. However, if you need to find somewhere else to swim, make sure to check out our post on the best beaches in Door County. This is the most comprehensive listing of Door County beaches on the internet!
Biking
Several trails are available for off-road biking at Whitefish Dunes State Park. However, some trails are off-limits to bikes, as is the beach. Make sure to obey all posted signs.
Whitefish Dunes State Park Dog Beach
Dogs are not only permitted at Whitefish Dunes State Park. They are accommodated here!
Whitefish Dunes State Park has a designated pet swimming area. However, you should know that the dog beach is about a mile hike from the parking lot and requires navigating a long staircase down to the shore. Dogless dog lovers will enjoy hiking the trail to the dog beach, as on hot days it will give you the chance to meet lots of friendly dogs and their owners.
Cross Country Skiing
During the winter months, three trails at Whitefish Dunes State Park are groomed for cross-country skiing: the green, red, and yellow trails. These afford many miles of skiing opportunities.
Snowshoeing
One trail is open for snowshoeing at Whitefish Dunes State Park: the black trail. This trail is 2.8 miles long.
Shipwreck Exhibit
Door County is famous for its shipwrecks, and a shipwreck even lies off the shore of the park. Within the park, near the picnic area, is a shipwreck display in which you can view the “skeleton” of a wooden schooner along with a few other artifacts from the wreck.
Nature Center
Whitefish Dunes State Park contains a nature center with hands-on, interactive exhibits to learn more about the unique ecosystems this property protects. In addition, it also will help you to learn more about the original, native inhabitants of the area.
Boating
Whitefish Dunes does not have a boat launch, but paddlers with small boats like kayaks are able to carry them to the shore and launch. However, given the challenges of paddling on Lake Michigan, it is advised that only well-outfitted and experienced paddlers attempt this. This area sees high wind and wave action which also produce strong currents.
Fishing
Fishing is available at Clark Lake via the Clark Lake spur trail. Whitefish Dunes State Park also has fishing equipment to borrow for free.
Picnic Area
Tucked under majestic fir trees, Whitefish Dunes State Park has a shady and peaceful picnic area with tables, grills, and a reservable shelter.You’ll have an unforgettable meal here, right along the shore of Lake Michigan.
Village Site
Whitefish Dunes State Park also has a “village site” where you can learn about the dwellings and a bit about the life of Door County’s first, native inhabitants.
Whitefish Dunes State Park Camping
Camping is not available inside Whitefish Dunes State Park. Those looking to camp inside a state park in Door County should look instead to Potawatomi, Peninsula, Newport, or Rock Island State Parks.
However, there are also some private campgrounds in the vicinity of Whitefish Dunes State Park. Our comprehensive post on camping in Door County can help give you guidance as to the best campground for your needs and wishes.
Whitefish Dune State Park Trails
Hiking at Whitefish Dunes State Park is a visual feast. The trails wind through lush forests, offering glimpses of the sparkling Lake Michigan. The scent of pine and the sound of waves create a serene atmosphere. As you hike, you’ll encounter striking sand dunes, towering over the landscape with their golden hues. The park’s diverse trails cater to all skill levels, from gentle walks to challenging climbs. My family loves the Red Trail, which takes us through a dense forest and along the rugged shoreline. Every turn reveals something new, making each hike a memorable adventure.
Wisconsin Sand Dunes
Whitefish Dunes State Park is a fantastic spot to experience Wisconsin’s sand dunes. The park’s expansive dunes tower above the shoreline of Lake Michigan, offering breathtaking views and unique hiking opportunities. In Door County, you can also visit Newport State Park for more dune exploration. Beyond Door County, Kohler-Andrae State Park near Sheboygan features impressive dunes and scenic trails. For those willing to travel further, the dunes at Point Beach State Forest near Two Rivers provide another excellent destination. These locations highlight Wisconsin’s diverse and stunning landscapes, perfect for any nature enthusiast.
Whitefish Dunes State Park Photos
Whitefish Dunes State Park is a photographer’s dream. The park’s striking sand dunes provide dramatic backdrops, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light casts beautiful shadows. The shimmering waters of Lake Michigan contrast stunningly with the golden sands, creating picturesque scenes. Forested trails offer opportunities for capturing the rich colors of changing seasons. Wildlife, including deer and birds, add lively subjects to your shots. My family and I often spend hours photographing the unique textures and landscapes, always discovering new perspectives. Whether you’re an amateur or a pro, Whitefish Dunes promises spectacular photo opportunities.
Whitefish Bay State Park
Whitefish Dunes State Park is located on Whitefish Bay, a picturesque bay off Lake Michigan in Door County. The bay’s calm, clear waters lap against the park’s striking sand dunes, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. This scenic location offers stunning views of Lake Michigan’s expansive horizon, perfect for beachgoers and nature lovers alike. Whitefish Bay’s tranquil setting is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. My family loves spending sunny afternoons here, exploring the shoreline and enjoying the peaceful ambiance. The park’s unique combination of dunes and bay makes it a must-visit destination in Door County.
Cave Point County Park
While visiting Whitefish Dunes State Park, another must-visit spot is Cave Point County Park.
Cave Point County Park is, essentially, “surrounded” by Whitefish Dunes State Park. However, they have completely separate facilities, and admission to Cave Point County Park is free. No vehicle admission sticker is required.
Make sure to read our post on Cave Point County Park to learn more about this natural wonder.
Other State Parks in Door County
Whitefish Dunes State Park General Information
Address
3275 Clarks Lake Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
Phone
Website
https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/whitefish
Admission Fees
Like most Wisconsin state parks,Whitefish Dunes State Park charges vehicle admission fees. Check the state Department of Natural Resources website for the most up-to-date information about the fees.
However, there are ways to visit Whitefish Dunes State Park for free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Swimming is permitted at Whitefish Dunes State Park. However, be aware that some sections of the beach are closed at all times to swimming and that conditions might not be favorable for swimming. Air and water temperatures, wind, and wave action may make other beaches a better place to swim.
Yes. Dogs are allowed at Whitefish Dunes State Park. There is even a designated pet swim area.
Yes. There are sand dunes in Door County, Wisconsin. Whitefish Dunes State Park is a good place to encounter and explore sand dunes.
