Peninsula State Park offers multiple campgrounds within a 2,373-acre property featuring 11 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. The park sits at an elevation of 150-230 feet above the water, creating dramatic views from several vantage points. For campers seeking sites near Fish Creek, Wisconsin, the terrain combines flat campsites with rugged limestone bluffs and mixed hardwood forests that provide varying degrees of shade and shelter.
What to do
Biking extensive trail networks: Peninsula State Park provides 20 miles of off-road biking trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty. "We camped here often with my grandparents when I was a child & several years later I still love ever second at Peninsula State Park. Last summer I got engaged along the trails of the park, right on the lake, so it will always hold a special place in my heart," notes a visitor to South Nicolet Bay Campground.
Explore Eagle Trail: This moderately challenging 2-mile loop takes hikers along limestone cliffs and through cedar groves. "We hiked over 26 miles of trails at this park and everyone was beautiful. However we were slightly disappointed that there weren't more views of the lakes, as most of the trails were set in just far enough off the coast to obstruct all views," explains a camper at Newport State Park.
Experience Dark Sky viewing: Newport State Park earned Dark Sky designation in 2017, making it ideal for stargazing. "Our campsite faced the lake and we had clear night skies which was truly breathtaking. Great location!" shares a visitor who stayed at site 13 via the Rowley's Bay 4-mile loop trail.
Attend outdoor theater: The American Folklore Theatre offers summer performances within Peninsula State Park. "We spent one night overnight and had a wonderful time - relaxing, good clean water, family friendly, and plenty of activities," mentions a visitor to North Nicolet Bay Campground.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds feature secluded spots with natural screening. "The sites were private and spacious. The showers were impeccable. There is even a dish washing station. We enjoyed the playground, the game room, lounge and yoga in the morning," shares a camper at Wagon Trail Campground.
Waterfront access: Several sites provide direct water views or access. "Walk to the water to watch a sunset or hop on a trail 10 mins nearby or kayak, wine and dine... door county has it all and Tennison Bay (peninsula state park) is a great place to stay," notes a camper at Tennison Bay Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower buildings. "The bathrooms are the best we've seen at any campground. This place can't get much better..." explains a visitor to Wagon Trail Campground, which features two bathroom buildings with showers.
Proximity to attractions: Campsites serve as convenient bases for exploring Door County. "Big rig friendly with a gravel pad. Campground has a boat launch for kayaks and canoes. Dump station with potable water fill up station as well," notes a Tennison Bay visitor about the practical amenities.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Sites at popular campgrounds book months in advance, especially for summer weekends. "It fills up really quickly and unless you book almost 11 months out, you will likely only get a walk up site," advises a visitor to Peninsula State Park.
Poison ivy awareness: Several campgrounds contain patches of poison ivy. "Watch out for poison ivy, it's everywhere. Same with mosquitoes. But that's the beauty of outdoors, right? So be very careful, especially when you camp with your four legged friends," warns a South Nicolet Bay camper.
Noise levels vary: Some areas are quieter than others, especially in smaller campgrounds. "I didn't hear a peep from anyone after 10pm, which is a nice change from some other campsites I've visited," shares a camper at Welcker's Point, a smaller non-electric campground within Peninsula State Park.
Limited cell service: Coverage can be spotty in certain areas. "Don't plan on having any cell phone reception with AT&T. 90% of the time I was at my campsite my phone was in SOS mode. You need to drive out to the park entrance to get reliable reception," notes a Welcker's Point visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is a nice playground. Showers and laundry available. Firewood and ice are available on the honor system," explains a visitor to Baileys Woods Campground.
Beach proximity: Choose sites near swimming areas for easier access with kids. "There is a nice ball diamond for kids and a small court for basketball. There is also some nice cabins and areas for tents," shares a visitor to J.W. Wells State Park across the bay in Michigan.
Nature programs: Take advantage of educational activities at park nature centers. "We hiked, explored the nature center, swam, enjoyed a show at their outdoor amphitheater, visited the historic lighthouse, and rented bikes with a burley trailer for my two year old. They had both adult and kid helmets too," describes a Tennison Bay camper.
Pack for insects: Prepare for seasonal bugs with appropriate repellent. "Wild flowers and butterflies were amazing as was night sky; mosquitos not so much. They were intense. Bring alot of repellant. Next time we go we'll probably permethrin our clothes to help," advises a Newport State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research campsite dimensions before booking to ensure proper fit. "If you are camping RV style, you may want to check out the site you would like to reserve to be sure it will accommodate your vehicle," recommends a visitor to Weborg Point Campground.
Utility hookups: Electric-only sites are more common than full hookups. "Sites are electric only; some water and electric and some are tent sites," notes a Baileys Woods Campground visitor about the variety of available options.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal as not all campgrounds have on-site facilities. "The dump station and water fill is near Tennison Bay Campground," explains a Welcker's Point camper, highlighting the need to know where facilities are located.
Parking pad surfaces: Be prepared for various site conditions. "Gravel pads that are all level; most are back-in, but a few are pull-through," shares a Baileys Woods visitor, noting the site composition that affects RV setup.
