Peninsula State Park's surrounding area features diverse camping options with many private campgrounds complementing the state park facilities. These sites sit approximately 860 feet above sea level along Green Bay, with limestone bluffs forming dramatic shorelines. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-80°F, while spring and fall can see cooler temperatures between 40-60°F with increased precipitation.
What to do
Hiking trails beyond the park: Potawatomi State Park offers over 8 miles of hiking paths through wooded terrain. "The park is huge with five campgrounds with over 400 sites and it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to stay," notes Lee D., who camped at South Nicolet Bay Campground. "There is so much to do in the park itself and Door County in general."
Beach access with equipment rentals: J.W. Wells State Park provides family-friendly beach areas with clear water. "The Green Bay shore is across the drive from our spot. Just beautiful," states Carl S. from J.W. Wells State Park Campground. "The site is clean, spacious, and level. The camp atmosphere is respectful of the natural sounds and beauty around us."
Local exploration with bikes: Sturgeon Bay offers accessible biking routes connecting to nearby natural areas. "It was easy to bike into sturgeon bay and awesome to be able to bike in the potowatomi state forest," explains Amanda C. about her stay at Tranquil Timbers. "There are some awesome views at this campground too because it's close to the bay."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Wagon Trail Campground provides secluded camping spots with natural barriers. "The sites were private and spacious. The showers were impeccable. There is even a dish washing station," says Kay K. at Wagon Trail Campground. "We enjoyed the playground, the game room, lounge and yoga in the morning."
Clean facilities: Potawatomi State Park maintains well-kept shower facilities with hot water. "The campground was set up easy to get to, and had plenty of space to set up our tent/hammocks," writes Sarah C. who stayed at Daisy Field Campground. "There was 1 flushable bathroom with showers both were well kept, and the showers had plenty of hot water."
Waterfront locations: Several campgrounds offer water views or direct water access. "Sites are well shaded with forest trees, trails to enjoy, fishing and paddling at water," notes James M. from South Nicolet Bay Campground. "There is a look out tower nearby, light house along shore, and stunning views."
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Peninsula State Park campgrounds require bookings well in advance, especially during summer months. "Peninsula State Park is a huge state park with five campgrounds with over 400 sites and it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to stay," explains Lee D. "Our decision was narrowed down somewhat because two of the campgrounds were closed for the season."
Weather considerations: Door County experiences significant seasonal changes affecting campsite conditions. "Watch out for poison ivy, it's everywhere. Same with mosquitoes," cautions Meg S. about South Nicolet Bay Campground. "The tent sites have lots of mosquitoes, so be prepared," adds Jillian S. from Wagon Trail Campground.
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds place units closer together than others. "They faced each other and were about 12-15 feet apart in the front and about 10 foot or less on your utilities side," notes John T. about Beantown Campground. "This would be great for camping with friends or family. Not so much when you are given a randomly chosen neighbor."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Diamond Lake Family Campground provides kid-friendly water features. "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," shares Jennifer G. about Diamond Lake Family Campground. "The campground was quiet and everyone was friendly."
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds maintain play areas for children. "The park has multiple CGs. This cg has stunning views near water, restrooms, fire rings and tables at sites," reports James M. from South Nicolet Bay Campground. "There is also a small playground and picnic area," adds Ellen S. about Kleinke Park.
Quieter options for families: Some private campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours. "Family-owners take pride in owning a quiet campground and doesn't allow outsiders. They have clear rules, and as long as they are followed, you're solid," explains Nathan F. about Diamond Lake. "If you're looking for lake fun (no boats) during the day and relaxing by the fire at night, this place is a must."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: RV campers report varying degrees of site preparation. "Our site was incredibly level. I have only found cement sites that require less effort to level your rig," notes John T. about Beantown Campground. "The sites were nice with fire ring, table and bench. The sites were near one another but vegetation between to give some barrier," adds Tiffany K. about Daisy Field Campground.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites vary across campgrounds. "We had full hookups and a large wooded site. Staff delivered firewood directly to you as well," reports Rob E. from Hy-Land Court RV Park. "Everyone was very helpful and extremely friendly."
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities, but locations vary. "We pulled in after a long day of driving and without a reservation. Fortunate to be able to pull right in and had several easily navigable sites available," shares Julie F. about Kleinke Park. "Easily accessible waste dump and water. We enjoyed our stay and would come back again."
