Door County Wilderness - Off the Beaten Path

Traveling to one of Wisconsin's most popular locations - Door County, one doesn't expect to find area's protected as Wilderness.  But that's exactly what you'll find when you head to Newport State Park on the tip of Door County.

Newport State Park

I am somewhat fond of this state park because of it's Wilderness declaration (it is the only state park in Wisconsin that is designated as a wilderness park), but also because this is where I had my first backpacking experience back on May 1st 2010.  I've camped since I was 6 months old, stayed on hike in campsites, but never took my pack and gear and did a backpacking experience.  And when I finally did it, I didn't just grab my gear, but also enough gear for two dogs.  And in early May, in Door County, and directly on Lake Michigan.  Yes, it was cold as I remember.

Backpacking at Newport State Park

Newport State Park does not allow campers.  All 16 campsites in this park are backpack sites.  With the craziness of Door County and all the tourists, you can escape that easily at this park.  It's one of the reasons I make a point to take at least one trip each year back up here.  Very rarely when I'm hiking the trails do I run into another person.  (There's about 30 miles of trails in the park.)  And so far since 2010, I've made another four trips.  Each time, experiencing a different time of the year.  Spring, Summer months, Fall - and it doesn't matter when you go, it's always quiet and beautiful.  

Newport Beach State Park - View from site to Lake Michigan

One of the things I really like about this park is how you can go from a beach shoreline to a rugged shoreline.  All within a short hike.  And with the wilderness designation, you can see and experience all types of wildlife (be careful of the porcupines).  

Rocky ledges @ Newport State Park, Door County, WI

And because of the lack of people - I think it's one of my dogs favorite parks.  They run off leash and get to swim in Lake Michigan.  It's so fun to watch them run and chase the waves on Lake Michigan.  And then after dinner, they're pretty much done for the day.  

Then once they're done - I can relax and watch the moon rise over Lake Michigan.  Eventually turning in for what is typically the best sleep I get - outdoors and in a tent.  Sun, fresh air, hiking and peace and quiet in the wilderness.  What else can one ask for?  

Moon rising over Lake Michigan @ Newport State Park

“I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in.”   John Muir