Potawatomi State Park
RV Guide

Potawatomi State Park is at the eastern end of Wisconsin's Ice Age National Scenic Trail. The trail's official terminus is near the lookout tower on the north end of the park. A great day hike from there is to head south, following the shore 3.5 miles to the town of Sturgeon Bay and then loop back to the start. The route covers a couple of hundred feet of elevation, but it's gradual and clear of obstacles. There are several great cafes and coffee shops in Sturgeon Bay, and several different museums are open on the weekends during the summer.

The state park rents canoes and kayaks so that all visitors have a chance to get out on the water. With good directions or a guide, you might even be able to locate one of several famous shipwrecks in the bay. The Shoreline Boat Launch puts you into well-protected Sawyer Harbor, which is large enough to enjoy hours exploring a couple of small islands and the waterfront view of many luxury lakefront homes. As evidenced by the sailors of the shipwrecked boats, weather can turn nasty here, so always check the forecasts and don't wander too far from the familiar shores of Potawatomi State Park.

The fishing here is top-notch. The modern fish-cleaning station provided in the park and gear and boat rental near the dock testify to this premier fishing area. Sturgeon Bay is one of the best bass fishing locations in the state. For boaters exploring the bay, lunkers are hiding in the many submerged rocks, old pilings, and shipwrecks from 10-30 feet deep. Whitefish, rainbow trout, walleye, and northern pike are commonly caught from the shore. The park rents out free fishing equipment if you didn't come prepared. Everyone 16 and older will need a Wisconsin fishing license.

Potawatomi offers splendid views on its 1,200 acres and nearly 20 miles of trails. Cycling through winding trails of birch forests, you are bound to see a plethora of wildlife in the area, including foxes, raccoons, and deer. The trails are kept relatively smooth, but you will encounter some changes in elevation that will get your heart pumping. The rise in elevation isn't the only thing that will take your breath away. The limestone ridges and jutting cliffs are a sight to behold, and biking through the park is a great way to explore the area.

The park offers some of the best swimming around. There are several protected areas to swim, such as the crystal clear waters of Sawyer Harbor and the shallows along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Just watch for signs of danger and follow the code of not splashing or making loud noises around those who are fishing. It's a great way to cool off after a full day of exploring.

The waters around Sturgeon Bay offer a wealth of history both above and below the water. There are several old shipwrecks in the area, which are now popular dive sites, and a visit to the Door County Maritime Museum will give you a chance to see photos and videos of the wrecks without plunging into Lake Michigan. There is an original brass diving helmet and an old ship helm to touch, and several interactive displays to learn about modern submersible exploration technologies. The giant shipwreck map highlights discoveries that have been made with the help of advanced techniques. Enjoy great hands-on fun for all ages.

The State Park campground is open year-round for those who delight in winter recreation. There are 17 miles of groomed trails in the winter, nine traditional and eight for skate-skiing. The terrain climbs 120 feet above the lake level toward the middle of the park with gorgeous views toward Sturgeon and Green Bay. No dogs, bikes, or snowshoes are allowed on the ski trails at any time. A drinking water supply is kept open in the campground. Check the park website for current weather and trail conditions.

The Friends of Potawatomi have organized annual running events in the park for over 25 years now. Fall weather and changing leaf colors offer ideal conditions for the run. The event attracts about 500 participants and regularly includes all ages, including babies in jogging strollers. Park roads are closed off for the races, and all of the routes are level, paved, and in very good condition. The fundraiser brings money to park projects each year, ensuring that Potawatomi stays in great shape for future generations.

Hunting is allowed in Potawatomi State Park during the season, but make sure to pick up a hunting map from the park office because there are specific areas that are off-limits. Hunting in prohibited areas carries stiff penalties. You can set up your RV in the Daisy Field Campground, and either hike to your hunting area or drive an off-road vehicle. There is no hunting or trapping within 100 yards of Ice Age Trail, which surrounds the whole camping area. You will find unique hunting opportunities in Potawatomi State Park. In addition to hunting deer, you can hunt bobcat, raccoon, muskrat, foxes, coyote, and badger. Be sure to get the appropriate license, and check on the status of allowable prey before your trip as these may be updated according to population changes.

The winter months in Potawatomi State Park are perfect for ice-fishing. Ice-fishing shanties may be parked on the lake overnight, but not left for a significant amount of time. Make sure to check with the park office for rules regarding staying on the ice for any length of time, but with the north campground so close to the water, you'll want to warm up in the Airstream before heading back out to fish anyway. Ice fishing is also popular in the protected Sawyer Harbor north of the park, where fishers will find ice-fishing shacks along the frozen lake. The same bountiful variety of fish anglers enjoy in the summer is available under the ice as well. Take your catch back to the camper and cook them up for dinner.