The Ridges Sanctuary and Nature Preserve
Baileys Harbor - Explore the boardwalk walking trails, educational nature center, historic range lights, hiking trails, beach, and sandy ridges within this boreal forest and enjoy one of the greatest concentrations of rare plants in the Midwest. This preserve is recognized as a National Natural Landmark and was Wisconsin's first area set aside to protect native flora.
Kangaroo Lake Nature Preserve
Baileys Harbor - Experience this rare undeveloped marl-bottom lake and all that it has to offer including, hiking, fishing, all kinds of water sports, capturing views and photographs of vast wildlife, or relaxing at the peaceful Kangaroo Lake Beach Road Park.
Toft Point State Natural Area
Baileys Harbor - This flat, easy 2 mile trail is open to hikers and snowshoers year-round and offers many points of interest along the way including the historic Toft cottages and barn, an old lime kiln, and remnants of a stone quarry. It does get rocky and wet near the shoreline, however, so look for slippery rocks and exposed roots. The trail begins off Ridges Road and travels northeast through a mile of forest toward a spectacular, rocky dolomite shoreline on Moonlight Bay.
Cana Island
Baileys Harbor - Ride a hay-wagon over the causeway to explore the island. The highlight of any Cana Island visit is climbing the 97 steps of the tower’s spiral staircase to reach the gallery deck, which delivers a sweeping panoramic view of Lake Michigan and the Door County peninsula.
Cave Point County Park
Sturgeon Bay - This iconic park is 10 miles South of Baileys on the Rocks Cottages and features fascinating caves to explore, spectacular hiking trails, and offers a year-round stunning overlook of Lake Michigan where you can witness the amazing sounds of the waves crashing against the bluffs.
Peninsula State Park
Fish Creek - This huge scenic park, with a 38-acre island, 18-hole golf course, a summer theatre, bike trails and bike rentals, a lovely sand beach with canoe and kayak rentals, Eagle Bluff lighthouse, and breath-taking hiking trails along the lake, is one of the best parks to visit and offers a lot of photo opportunities to capture beautiful Door County.
Eagle Tower at Peninsula State Park
Fish Creek - High above the Niagara Escarpment on Peninsula's northeast shore stands one of the most popular attractions in Door County. Eagle Tower, located on top of Eagle Bluff, offers panoramic views of the park, surrounding islands, the Upper Michigan shoreline and the village of Ephraim.
Newport State Park
Ellison Bay - Newport's wilderness experience offers over 2,300 acres of forest on 11 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, 30 miles of hiking trails, and backpack camping as a quiet alternative to bustling Door County. At the far end of the Door Peninsula, Newport is also designated as a Dark Sky Park, a perfect destination for stargazing.
Washington Island
Washington Island is your destination for adventure in Door County. It all starts with a 5-mile ferry ride across the once-treacherous waters of Death’s Door, where Green Bay and Lake Michigan meet. Once ashore, embark on a tour of one-of-a-kind shopping, eating, music and art, remote parks, island festivals, and outdoor fun hosted by the 600 residents who call the island home.
Ellison Bluff County Park
Ellison Bay - Take a scenic drive to this unique spot. Providing spectacular views from the bluff tops of the Niagara Escarpment, it features an unforgettable viewing platform that cantilevers off the bluff and is an ideal sunset watching spot. There is also a nice 1 mile loop trail which is wide and paved with crushed stone that starts and ends at the parking lot.
Anclam Park Beach
Baileys Harbor -With an onsite playground, grills, bathrooms, and stunning panoramic views of the harbor. This beach is a 3 minute walk from the cottages. Take a walk to the end of the jetty walkway to look back over downtown Baileys Harbor.
Ridges Beach
Located in The Ridges County Park in Baileys Harbor - This beach is the perfect spot to watch the sunrise and to practice your kiteboarding or wind surfing skills. The sandy, shallow waters are excellent for wading and for families with young children to enjoy. Parking, picnic tables, benches and restrooms are available.
Nicolet Beach
Located in Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek - This sandy beach is a great stop along the 10 mile bike trail or to spend the whole day swimming at. There is a shop to purchase water, snacks, and swimming gear. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes and there are several food trucks to grab lunch for a picnic.
Waterfront Park
Sister Bay - Great beach area with an outdoor stage, bar-b-ques, picnic tables, a nice playground, and large grassy areas for activity and as places to hold your own events.
Whitefish Dunes State Park
Sturgeon Bay - Here you can find some of the largest sand dunes in the state! There is a long sandy beach along the crystal clear waters that you can stop at before or after hiking one of the many trails offered. There is also a separate beach that you can bring your dog on.