Kohler-Andrae State Park | Milwaukee

Kohler-Andrae State Park, located along the shores of Lake Michigan in Sheboygan County, Wisconsin, covers nearly 1,000 acres and is a cherished destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Established in 1927, this park combines scenic sand dunes, forested trails, wetlands, and expansive beaches, creating a diverse natural environment ideal for exploration and relaxation.

Natural Landscape and Environment

The park is distinguished by its impressive sand dunes, which are among the largest and most dynamic on the western shore of Lake Michigan. These dunes, shaped by persistent winds and water action, form a varied landscape that includes both active shifting sands and stabilized areas where vegetation has taken hold. The dune system transitions into dense pine forests and wetlands, creating rich habitats that support a variety of plant and animal species.

Wildlife is abundant and includes numerous bird species, such as warblers and hawks, as well as mammals like white-tailed deer, foxes, and small rodents. The wetlands provide breeding grounds for amphibians and aquatic birds, making the park a vital ecological area along the lakefront.

Hiking and Nature Trails

Kohler-Andrae State Park features an extensive network of hiking trails catering to different interests and abilities:

Creeping Juniper Nature Trail: A half-mile loop winding through gently rolling dunes, with interpretive signage explaining local plant species, geology, and wildlife.

Dunes Cordwalk: A two-mile path that parallels the Lake Michigan shoreline, passing through active and stable dunes, wetlands, and white pine forests. This trail is divided into a 0.5-mile northern section and a 1.5-mile southern section, offering scenic views of the lake and diverse habitats.

Woodland Dunes Trail: A one-mile forested route featuring rolling dunes with educational signs about the tree species native to the area. A shorter, quarter-mile crushed limestone loop along this trail is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.

Black River Marsh Boardwalk: A quarter-mile accessible boardwalk trail through wetland environments, providing opportunities to observe waterfowl and learn about the importance of wetland ecosystems.

Black River Trail: Extending 2.5 miles, this trail begins at the northwest park entrance and moves through fields, woodlands, and evergreen forests. It permits mountain biking and horseback riding, adding variety to trail use.

Fishing Pond Trail: A short 0.3-mile loop with benches, ideal for observing pond life and resting.

Camping and Facilities

The park offers a range of accommodations catering to different camping preferences:

Family Campground: Comprising 137 campsites, 52 of which have electrical hookups. Each site includes a campfire ring and picnic table, designed for up to six people or a family plus two guests. The campground operates year-round, with seasonal amenities such as showers, flush toilets, and laundry facilities.

Group Campground: Two tent-only group sites are available, accommodating up to 50 people collectively. These sites include vault toilets and are designed for larger gatherings.

Accessible Cabin: A fully equipped cabin with modern amenities including electricity, heating, air conditioning, kitchen appliances, and a bathroom with wheelchair accessibility. It accommodates up to six guests and is available for limited rental periods each year.

Beach and Water Activities

Stretching for over two miles along Lake Michigan, the park’s sandy beaches attract visitors for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking during the summer months. The shoreline offers gentle lake access and scenic views, although no boat launches or docks are present. Fishing is popular, with anglers targeting species like trout and salmon that inhabit the lake waters adjacent to the park.

Winter Recreation

During winter, the park’s landscape transforms into a serene, snow-covered setting ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Trails are groomed for these activities, and some campsites remain accessible for winter camping, providing a quiet natural retreat amid snowy dunes and forests.

Visitor Information

Kohler-Andrae State Park is located at 1020 Beach Park Lane in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. It is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and visitors must display a vehicle admission sticker for entry. Facilities include picnic areas, restrooms, ample parking, and trail access points, designed to balance visitor comfort with environmental preservation.

Kohler-Andrae State Park stands out for its blend of towering dunes, diverse ecosystems, and a wide range of recreational opportunities. Whether hiking through tranquil forests, exploring wetland boardwalks, relaxing on expansive beaches, or camping beneath the stars, the park offers an immersive outdoor experience on the shores of Lake Michigan.