Kohler-Andrae State Park
Kohler-Andrae State Park is Wisconsin’s premier Lake Michigan beach destination—where 2.5 miles of sandy shoreline meets dramatic sand dunes rising above the water. Located just south of Sheboygan, this coastal gem protects the rare Kohler Dunes State Natural Area and offers the famous Dunes Cordwalk, year-round camping, and spectacular Great Lakes sunrises.
Whether you’re swimming in Lake Michigan, hiking the wooden cordwalk through ancient dunes, or learning about coastal ecology at the Sanderling Nature Center, Kohler-Andrae delivers an unforgettable Wisconsin outdoor experience.
Park Fast Facts
| 📍 Location | South of Sheboygan, WI |
| 🗺️ Region | Lake Michigan Shoreline |
| 🏖️ Beach | 2.5 miles sandy beach |
| 🛤️ Cordwalk | 2 miles (dunes trail) |
| ⛺ Campsites | 137 (52 electric) |
| 📞 Phone | (920) 451-4080 |
Lake Michigan Beach
The park’s 2.5-mile sandy beach is one of Wisconsin’s finest!
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏊 Swimming | Seasonal, Lake Michigan |
| 🎣 Fishing | Shore fishing permitted |
| 🏄 Surfing | Popular with surfers! |
| 🌅 Sunrise Viewing | Spectacular over the lake |
Kohler Dunes State Natural Area
The park protects ancient sand dunes formed over centuries by Lake Michigan winds!
- 🏜️ Active and stabilized dunes
- 🌿 Rare plant species
- 🦌 Protected ecosystem
- 🚶 Stay on designated trails to protect dunes!
Dunes Cordwalk
The famous wooden cordwalk lets you explore the dunes without damaging them!
| Section | Length |
|---|---|
| 🛤️ North Section | 0.5 miles |
| 🛤️ South Section | 1.5 miles |
| 📏 Total Cordwalk | 2 miles |
Other Trails
| Trail | Distance | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 🌿 Creeping Juniper Nature Trail | 0.5 mi | Cordwalk through dunes |
| 🌲 Woodland Dunes Nature Trail | 1 mi | Forested dunes |
| 🦆 Black River Marsh Boardwalk | 0.25 mi | Wetlands |
| 🚴 Black River Trails | 2.5 mi | Horses & mountain bikes OK |
Sanderling Nature Center
- 🏛️ Located in northern area of park
- 📚 Great Lakes natural history exhibits
- 🔭 Observation deck with lake views
- 📅 Open May – October
- 🎭 Auditorium for programs
Camping
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| ⚡ Electric Sites | 52 sites |
| ⛺ Non-Electric Sites | 85 sites |
| 👥 Group Sites | 2 sites |
| ♿ Accessible Cabin | 1 cabin |
| 📅 Season | Year-round! |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dunes Cordwalk?
The Dunes Cordwalk is a 2-mile wooden pathway running parallel to Lake Michigan through the protected sand dunes. It lets visitors experience the dune ecosystem without damaging fragile plants. Split into a 0.5-mile north section and 1.5-mile south section—a must-do hike!
Can I swim in Lake Michigan at Kohler-Andrae?
Yes! The park has 2.5 miles of sandy beach on Lake Michigan, perfect for swimming in summer. The water can be cold even in summer—Lake Michigan stays refreshing! Surfing is also popular here.
Is camping open year-round?
Yes! Kohler-Andrae offers year-round camping with certain sites available even during winter. There are 137 total campsites (52 electric), two group sites, and an accessible cabin.
What is the Sanderling Nature Center?
The Sanderling Nature Center educates visitors on local flora, fauna, and Great Lakes natural history. It features exhibits, an auditorium for programs, and an observation deck with Lake Michigan views. Open May through October.
Why are the dunes protected?
The Kohler Dunes State Natural Area protects a rare coastal dune ecosystem with plants found in few other places. These dunes formed over centuries from Lake Michigan winds. Visitors must stay on designated trails to prevent damage to fragile vegetation.
How far is Kohler-Andrae from Sheboygan?
Kohler-Andrae State Park is located just a few miles south of Sheboygan, Wisconsin—approximately 10-15 minutes by car. It’s an easy day trip for residents of Milwaukee and the broader southeast Wisconsin area.
🏖️ Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan Gem
Walk the famous Cordwalk through ancient dunes, swim in 2.5 miles of sandy beach, and camp year-round at this coastal paradise!
