Door County, WI · Great Lakes
Whitefish Dunes State Park
3275 Clark Lake Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
The tallest sand dunes in Wisconsin (Old Baldy tops 93 ft) along the Lake Michigan side of Door County. Long, open beach with serious rip-current risk — the DNR posts flags and a no-swim zone within ~200 yards of the main ramp.
Today's Conditions
Great day for a beach walk.
54°F water
Water
- 54°F water — cold — wetsuit or stay dry
Best for walking today
Atmosphere
Water
Sun & Moon
What to Bring Today
- critical Wetsuit (if swimming at all) Water is 54°F — dangerously cold
Always remember water bottle, trash bag (leave no trace).
Beach Info
Parking
Park lot at the Nature Center; Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission required.
Dogs
Pets prohibited on the main beach April 1 – Nov 1. A pet-friendly beach access is ~0.75 mi from the parking lot. Leash max 8 ft.
Entry Fee
WI vehicle admission: $13 resident / $16 non-resident daily; $28 resident / $50 non-resident 12-month (2026).
Address
3275 Clark Lake Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
Amenities
Frequently Asked
Is it safe to swim at Whitefish Dunes State Park today?
Whitefish Dunes State Park shows a live water-quality reading (bacteria levels) and today's swim-safety score at the top of this page, refreshed on every update. No lifeguards are on duty, so check the day's conditions and swim with caution. Always review the current advisories, surf, and rip-current notes before getting in the water.
Is Whitefish Dunes State Park dog-friendly?
Pets prohibited on the main beach April 1 – Nov 1. A pet-friendly beach access is ~0.75 mi from the parking lot. Leash max 8 ft.
Is there an entry fee at Whitefish Dunes State Park?
WI vehicle admission: $13 resident / $16 non-resident daily; $28 resident / $50 non-resident 12-month (2026).
Are there lifeguards at Whitefish Dunes State Park?
No lifeguards are stationed at Whitefish Dunes State Park. Swim at your own risk and keep close watch on children.
What amenities are at Whitefish Dunes State Park?
Amenities at Whitefish Dunes State Park include restrooms, changing rooms, nature center, hiking trails, picnic area, boardwalk dune overlooks.
When is the water warmest at Whitefish Dunes State Park?
Great Lakes water temperatures peak in late July and August at roughly 68-74°F near shore — cool compared to the ocean. Best swimming window is mid-July to late August.
Where is Whitefish Dunes State Park located?
Whitefish Dunes State Park is in Door County, WI, at 3275 Clark Lake Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235.
Nearby Beaches
Updated · Data from NOAA, NWS