Peninsula State Park

Perched on the Door Peninsula between the cool waters of Green Bay and the charming village of Fish Creek, Peninsula State Park has been Wisconsin’s crown jewel since 1909. This 3,776-acre masterpiece combines everything visitors love about Door County: limestone bluffs rising 150 feet above the bay, forests blazing with fall color, an acclaimed 18-hole golf course carved through towering pines, and some of the most legendary sunsets in the Midwest.

But what truly sets Peninsula apart is its completeness. This is a park where you can hike to dramatic clifftop overlooks in the morning, play a round on a course that rivals private clubs in the afternoon, rent a kayak to explore sea caves as the sun angles low, and return to one of 468 campsites as twilight settles over the bay. Add the iconic Eagle Tower with its accessible canopy walk, a historic lighthouse, beaches, bike trails, and cross-country skiing in winter—Peninsula delivers a different adventure every season.

For generations of Wisconsin families, Peninsula State Park isn’t just a destination—it’s a tradition. Grandparents who camped here in the 1960s return with grandchildren to claim the same sites. Couples who golfed here on honeymoon celebrate anniversaries at the same sunset overlook. This is Door County distilled to its essence: natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and the timeless magic of the northern woods.

Park Fast Facts

Peninsula State Park occupies a dramatic peninsula jutting into Green Bay, with 8 miles of shoreline along its eastern edge. The park was established in 1909 and has grown to become Wisconsin’s most visited and arguably most complete state park—offering everything from primitive camping to championship golf, all within one of the most scenic settings in the Midwest.

Entrance Fees & Passes

All vehicles entering Peninsula State Park require a Wisconsin State Parks vehicle admission sticker. The daily sticker is valid only for the day of purchase, while annual stickers provide unlimited access to all Wisconsin state parks—excellent value if you’re exploring Door County’s multiple parks or visiting regularly.

Annual passes are valid at all Wisconsin state parks. Campers must have an admission sticker for each night—those without an annual pass need a daily sticker per night.

Eagle Tower & Canopy Walk

The Eagle Tower is Peninsula’s most iconic structure—an observation tower offering 360-degree views across the park, Green Bay, the surrounding islands, and on clear days, the Upper Michigan shoreline. But what makes this tower special is its accessible canopy walk, a gently sloping ramp that rises through the forest canopy to the observation deck, allowing visitors of all abilities to experience the treetop perspective.

From the top, the views are simply stunning. Green Bay stretches to the horizon, Horseshoe Island sits in the middle distance, and the autumn forest below erupts in oranges, reds, and yellows that make fall the park’s most photographed season. Watch for bald eagles soaring at eye level—they nest in the park and frequently ride the thermals above the tower.

Hiking Trails

Peninsula’s 20+ miles of hiking trails range from easy, accessible paths through the forest to challenging cliff-edge routes with dramatic bay views. The signature Eagle Trail is one of Wisconsin’s most scenic—a 2-mile loop along 150-foot limestone bluffs with views that rival anything in the state. For families or those seeking an easier experience, the Sunset Trail stretches over 9 miles and is accessible to bikes and wheelchairs.

Note: Mountain bike and trail improvements are ongoing throughout 2025. Check the park office for current trail conditions.

Camping

With 468 family campsites spread across five campgrounds, Peninsula offers one of Wisconsin’s largest camping complexes. Sites range from rustic tent spots tucked into the forest to electric sites suitable for RVs. The park’s popularity means reservations are essential—sites can be booked up to 11 months in advance, and summer weekends fill within hours of opening.

Each campground has its own character: Tennison Bay is closest to the beach and most popular with families, while Weborg Point offers more seclusion. Nicolet Bay has beautiful bay views. All campgrounds feature modern restrooms, and shower buildings are available (Tennison Bay showers undergoing 2026 renovation with phased closures).

📋 Reservations: Book at wisconsin.goingtocamp.com up to 11 months in advance. Setup allowed 6 AM – 11 PM.

Golf Course

The Peninsula State Park Golf Course is consistently ranked among Wisconsin’s finest public courses—and it happens to be set in one of the most scenic locations imaginable. The 18-hole championship course winds through majestic forests with views of Eagle Harbor and the village of Ephraim. At state park prices, it’s an exceptional value for golf of this caliber.

The course also features a 6-hole par-3 short course (perfect for beginners or quick rounds), a full driving range, pro shop, and professional lessons. The season runs May 1 – October 15, weather permitting.

Beaches & Water Activities

Peninsula’s 8 miles of Green Bay shoreline include several swimming beaches, with Nicolet Bay Beach being the most popular. The protected bay waters are calmer than Lake Michigan’s open shores, making them ideal for families with children. Kayaking and canoeing are popular ways to explore the shoreline, with rentals available during peak season.

Winter Activities

Peninsula transforms into a winter wonderland when snow blankets the Door Peninsula. Cross-country skiing trails wind through the quiet forest, snowshoers explore off-trail, and the park’s sledding hill offers family fun. The park is also open to snowmobiling on designated trails, connecting to Door County’s extensive trail network.

Best Times to Visit

Nearby Door County Attractions

Peninsula State Park sits at the heart of Door County—Wisconsin’s “Cape Cod”—with charming villages, wineries, and attractions nearby:

• Fish Creek: Adjacent village with shops, restaurants, sunset views
• Ephraim: Historic white church, kayak rentals, galleries
• Sister Bay: Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant (goats on roof!)
• Potawatomi State Park: 15 min away; observation tower, climbing
• Washington Island: Ferry from Northport; Icelandic heritage
• Door County Wineries: 10+ wineries and cideries

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by

State Parks Team

Editorial Team

The America's State Parks Editorial Team has collectively explored 800+ state parks across all 50 states. Our park profiles are carefully researched using official state park data, verified visitor information, and first-hand observations from our writers and contributors. Each article is fact-checked against official sources and updated regularly to ensure accuracy. Our mission is to help every American discover the natural wonders in their own backyard.

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