Peninsula State Park and the surrounding Door County region offer diverse camping options from traditional sites to yurt camping in Egg Harbor, Wisconsin. The area's geology features the Niagara Escarpment, a limestone ridge extending through the peninsula, creating unique camping terrain with mixed hardwood forests. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 580-650 feet above sea level, with average summer temperatures ranging from 65-80°F.
What to do
Hiking the wooded trails: At Peninsula State Park, the trail system offers more than just lake views. "There is so much to do in the park itself and Door County in general. Many great hiking trails. My only beef is that Wisconsin State parks charge more than many other states," notes Lee D. about South Nicolet Bay Campground.
Fishing opportunities: J.W. Wells State Park provides accessible fishing spots right from the campground. "You can fish Lake Michigan or swim off the beach or hike the park," explains GA J. who considers this one of their favorite camping destinations in the J.W. Wells State Park Campground.
Beach swimming: The sandy beaches are a major draw during summer months. "We had a great time! We mainly went to go to the beach. But after talking to a helpful ranger we decided to also go to the light house. The light house is beautiful and has a wonderful view," shares Sarah C. about her experience at South Nicolet Bay.
Winter activities: While most visitors come in summer, some campgrounds offer winter options. "Park has multiple CGs. This cg has stunning views near water, restrooms, fire rings and tables at sites. Sites are well shaded with forest trees, trails to enjoy, fishing and paddling at water," according to James M.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: The wooded camping areas provide good separation between sites. "The sites were private and spacious. The bathrooms were the standard modern variety with showers as well. The park itself is huge with plenty to keep you busy from hiking along cliffs to swimming to biking," writes Kevin M. about his stay at Wagon Trail Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "This is probably the nicest, most well run campground we have ever stayed at. The staff is friendly and welcoming, they are pet friendly, and their sites are spacious and private. Rates are very reasonable and the bathrooms are the best we've seen at any campground," shares Gerald B.
Family atmosphere: Diamond Lake gets high marks for its family-friendly environment. "My family and I camped for 6 days and 5 nights here and it was great! They are well-known for having the cleanest bathrooms/showers in the area and their bathrooms did not disappoint! They are air conditioned with individual, private stalls and hot water!" reports Jill C. about Diamond Lake Family Campground.
Waterfront views: Many sites offer direct waterfront access or views. "Kleinke Park was beautiful. It was rather windy during our stay, but overall the weather was great. The showers are coin operated, $1 for 8 minutes," notes Nikki & Mike.
What you should know
Reservation timing: During peak season (June-August), reservations should be made 6-9 months in advance for popular campgrounds. Less popular sites may have availability 1-2 months ahead.
Bay flies: Depending on the season, insects can be problematic. "One 'negative' that cannot be controlled: bay flies. Happened to be there when the bay flies were thick! The flies do not seem to bite, just a nuisance," warns Sara S. about Kleinke Park Campground.
Proximity to towns: Many campgrounds are close to small towns with supplies and amenities. "Close to everything you could want in Door County!" notes Josh G. about Wagon Trail Campground.
Yurt options: For those seeking yurt camping in Egg Harbor and surrounding areas, multiple campgrounds now offer these structures. "Campsite was very clean. Tent sites have lots of mosquitoes, so be prepared. Cabins and yurts also available to rent. Couldn't have asked for a better experience," shares Jillian S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds have dedicated play areas for children. "There is also a small playground and picnic area. Most of the sites right on the lake are reserved all season by RV trailers when I was there," explains Ellen S. about her stay at Kleinke Park Campground.
Water recreation: Diamond Lake offers water activities specifically designed for children. "We don't have small kids but 2 of the couples we were with did and they had so much fun with the water chute and inflatables. The campground was quiet and everyone was friendly," reports Jennifer G. about Tranquil Timbers.
Beach swimming: The swimming areas are generally safe for families with gradual entry points. "Really nice sites and you can see the water from most of them. Really nice recreational activities (basketball, tetherball, horse shoes) and a trail leading to the picnic shelter and sandy swimming beach," shares Chelsea B.
Quiet hours: Most campgrounds strictly enforce quiet times, typically from 10pm-7am. "Quiet time meant quiet time. The sites are large and very well kept," notes Barb W.
Tips from RVers
Site sizes: RV sites vary considerably between campgrounds. "We were in our 34' ft 5er with a diesel dually truck and the spot was tight. The second time we had a 24' class C and we had plenty of room," explains Lora H. about her experience at River Park Campground.
Hookup availability: Full hookups (water, electric, sewer) are available at select sites. "We enjoyed the complete hook ups, no worries about electric, water or sewer. It is a little more pricy but we will pay more for the amenities," shares Ann S.
Level sites: Many campers note the ease of setting up on level ground. "Our site was incredibly level. I have only found cement sites that require less effort to level your rig," reports John T.
Proximity between sites: Some RV areas have closer spacing than others. "The sites faced each other and were about 12-15 feet apart in the front and about 10 foot or less on your utilities side," notes a camper about the daily rental sites.
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