The tent campsites near Sister Bay, Wisconsin sit on the Door County peninsula, which juts into Lake Michigan and is known for its rocky shorelines and dense cedar forests. Elevations in the region range from 580 to 850 feet above sea level, with the camping season typically running from May through October. Weather conditions can change rapidly due to the surrounding water bodies, with summer temperatures averaging 65-80°F during the day and dropping to 50-60°F at night.
What to do
Explore lighthouse history: At Rock Island State Park Campground, campers can visit the Pottawatomie Lighthouse. "The island has a great history that can be explored by hiking to the Potowatomi lighthouse and poking around the boathouse by the ferry dock. Abundant hiking trails make for good exploration and wildlife spotting," notes Jen C.
Watch for monarch butterflies: Peninsula Point Lighthouse area offers seasonal butterfly viewing opportunities. "Would love to be there for the monarch migration," mentions Neil T. The area serves as a key stopping point during the monarch migration, typically peaking in late August to early September.
Night sky observation: The lack of light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "Caught northern lights, Milky Way, and glorious sights every day," reports Jacob B. who stayed at Peninsula Point. Viewing is best on clear nights away from tree cover, with optimal stargazing between 10 pm and 2 am.
What campers like
Private shoreline camping: Newport State Park offers secluded sites along Lake Michigan. "This spot is a yearly favorite. It's probably retained its fresh quiet feel because all the campsites are walk-in... but you don't have to walk that far. Some are just half a mile in!" explains C A. Many campers mention the privacy as a key factor in their camping experience.
Cedar groves: The distinctive trees create natural camping spaces with character. "We hiked into site 7 and were delighted by the trees covered in moss," shares Kay K. about Newport State Park. The cedar trees provide natural windbreaks and moderate shade for tent campsites.
Island camping adventure: Many campers value the journey to Rock Island State Park as part of the experience. "Rock Island is an amazing gem in our state. It takes some extra work and planning to get to, but the reward is worth it," writes Calli N. The ferry from Washington Island runs several times daily during peak season, with the first departure typically at 10 am.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be significant, especially on the islands. "The island gets very windy and cold at night. Be prepared and bring extra layers! On the plus side, bugs were very very minimal," advises Calli N. about Rock Island.
Seasonal insects: Different months bring different bug challenges. "In May there is an abundance of flies that were swirling around. Found out later these are seasonal 'may flies' and they are everywhere. Spiders were also a bit of a surprise at this site," warns Steven U. who camped at Newport State Park.
Ferry logistics: Plan your island camping transportation carefully. "The ferrys are first come first serve. If you want to get on the first ferry, get down there early," recommends Calli N. about the Rock Island ferry. Missing the last ferry can mean an unplanned overnight stay, so check schedules in advance.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the peninsula. "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 David M. about Welcker's Point.
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: Welcker's Point Campground offers family-friendly shoreline access. "The beach was very nice, though not very large. The nature center was packing with information about the animals there and we even got to watch a monarch butterfly come out of its chrysalis!" shares Jimmy P. The beach area includes a gradual entry point suitable for younger swimmers.
Activity equipment: Some parks provide recreational equipment for families. "They do have a small building that contains outdoor equipment (balls, frisbees, bocce ball etc) to use," mentions Liz M. about Rock Island facilities. Having these amenities means families can pack lighter for their camping trip.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy the animal encounters in the parks. "We had lots of friends (deer, snakes, toads)!" reports Katie G. who camped at Rock Island. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing times, particularly along quieter trails.
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Harbour Village Campground offers RV-friendly camping near Sister Bay. "We had a large, private pull through site. There was a pool and a slow water slide for the kids," shares Melissa H. Many RV sites in the area require advance booking, particularly for units over 30 feet.
Limited hookup options: Most tent campsites near Sister Bay have minimal RV amenities. "This park is highly sought after. Electric and non electric sites available, 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," advises Donna C. about Peninsula State Park.
Seasonal access considerations: Peninsula's water and electric hookups are typically available from May through mid-October. "The dump station and water fill is near Tennison Bay Campground," notes Laura M. about facilities at Welcker's Point, which is important information for RV campers planning longer stays.
