Whitefish Dunes State Park protects the fragile dune environment on the eastern Door County Peninsula. Stroll along Lake Michigan, watch waterfowl at Clark Lake, use the boardwalk to discover the wetlands or relax on one of the many trails throughout the forested sand dunes and beech forest. The park's nature center features year-round programs, exhibits and displays on ecology, geology and human history. Whitefish Dunes is a day-use park, there is no camping.
Activities and recreation:
Hiking
Whitefish Dunes State Park has 14.5 miles of hiking trails. Please do not climb on the sand dunes and stay on the park's designated trails and stairs to protect the rare plant and animal species that call Whitefish Dunes home.
Biking
Biking is allowed on designated bike trails only; near the office along the Red Trail to S. Cave Point Drive, the 3rd beach access to Clark Lake Road, and from the office to Schauer Road.
Biking is not allowed on the beach/dunes or hiking trails.
Picnic areas
Whitefish Dunes State Park's picnic area includes charcoal grills, picnic tables, a reservable shelter building and a water fountain for drinking water. This area is near the parking lot overlooking the shore of Lake Michigan
Swimming and Lake Michigan
Swimming is available in Lake Michigan. Please use caution. No lifeguards are present.
Boating, canoeing and kayaking
There is no boat launch at the park. Users of small watercraft or floatation devices should be aware of the wind conditions on Lake Michigan. Strong west winds can blow watercraft away from the shoreline. Parents, watch your children at all times. Rubber rafts and other boats require personal floatation devices.
Fishing
Fishing is available in Clark Lake. The Clark Lake Spur trail provides access to Clark Lake from the park. Fishing licenses apply.
Anglers of any age may check out basic fishing equipment free of charge at the park office. This equipment was donated by the Tackle Loaner Program. Call the park office to find out what equipment is available.
Hunting and trapping
Hunting and trapping are allowed in the open areas of the park during the Wisconsin state parks hunting and trapping time frame. Trapping is not permitted in closed areas as noted on the park hunting map or within 100 yards of any designated use area, including trails. Certain trap types are restricted on state park properties.
Winter activities
When there's snow, the Red, Green and Yellow trails are groomed and can be used for diagonal skiing. The Black trail is open for snowshoeing.
Park staff do not monitor ice conditions on the lakes. Be extremely cautious of ice conditions at all times.
