As I sit to write about a great hiking and camping experience, I thought what better than my most recent trip to Rock Island. For those who are unaware of this great Door County treasure, Rock Island is the peninsula’s northern most property located just north of Washington Island. Cars and even bikes are not allowed on the 912-acre island, making for an experience unlike any other Wisconsin state park. The park boasts 10 miles of hiking trails, including a one-mile interpretive trail, a naturalist program, and 5,000 feet of beach. 40 campsites are positioned near the south end of the Island near the fairy dock and boat house/welcome station. The sites vary from waterfront (a beautiful and unique setting), inland, and rustic backpacking sites, all of which may be reserved. Pit toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings are provided and there is drinking water near the dock and boathouse. Firewood is available for sale each day near the boathouse.

We found the camping experience to be ‘simple yet satisfying’. Meaning we did not miss the heated pools or arcades found at many campgrounds across the nation now days. No, it was a wonderful time enjoying the peace, tranquility and beauty that nature and this majestic island have to offer. To me, that is what camping and hiking is all about.

As we love to paddle, we decided to pack light and arrive by kayak. Launching on the calm waters of Death’s Door early one morning with a very light westerly breeze (Safety first! If you are planning to paddle any waters surrounding the peninsula, carefully plan accordingly, checking weather and taking any and all safety precautions and knowing your own paddling level or others that may be with you) we made our way around the southeast side of Plum Island heading toward the southern tip of Detroit Island trying to keep a few rest or safety points along our route. From there, we had a beautiful paddle along the east shore of Washington Island only to find Rock Island lounging just beyond the northeast corner. It had been a pretty long paddle and we were happy to hit land and set up camp. We got lucky guessing where our campsite was located and happen to land exactly in front of it. Setting up camp took only a few minutes followed by lunch, another of my favorite entities to camping actually. (Keep an eye on our site for more info regarding great food/meal planning guides and recipes.) After a little fuel, we donned our packs and were off to explore the Island. The Thordarson Loop trail runs 6.5 miles covering most of the perimeter of the island and provided a very scenic and enjoyable hike with great sites along the way including the Potawatomi Lighthouse, Water Tower, and various scenic overlooks. As we thoroughly enjoyed this trail, one of my favorite’s had to be the Fernwood Trail. At only 1.5 miles long, it cuts across the island with subtle undulations and an amazingly, stunning amount of ferns which I love. I guess ferns just make me feel as though I am officially ‘in the woods’. A majestic feeling born from my youth enjoying countless weekends in the great North Woods and for some reason I always think of the ferns.

In addition to the many great trails to meander along, Rock Island possesses a beautiful shoreline ranging from sand beaches and rocky shores to limestone bluffs. It was a pure joy to lie tucked away in our small pack tent just feet from the water, falling asleep to the wonderful music the waves played on the shore. Then only to wake up and have that be the first thing you see in morning’s light! It was a great joy and Rock Island is truly a magnificent place that I would recommend to anyone looking to experience the great outdoors in a surreal and peaceful setting.