Rock Island State Park
Hours
The park is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
The Rock Island Ferry runs Memorial Day Weekend through the second Monday in October.
Directions
Two ferry rides are needed to reach Rock Island State Park. Take Wisconsin Highway 42 to its end at Northport, the tip of the Door County Peninsula. Take the Washington Island Ferry to Washington Island. The ferry carries people, vehicles, bicycles and freight. From the Washington Island ferry landing, travel across the island to the northeast side to the Rock Island ferry landing at Jackson Harbor. Leave your vehicle or bike there and take the passenger-only Rock Island Ferry to Rock Island.
Visitors may take their boats to Rock Island, but caution is urged as Lake Michigan can be hazardous due to reefs and storms. There is a nightly fee for all boats mooring overnight at Rock Island.
Fees
- There are fees for both the Washington Island Ferry and the Rock Island Ferry.
- There is a nightly fee of $1 per foot of boat length for all boats mooring overnight at Rock Island State Park. Dock space is limited and cannot be reserved.
- Vehicle admission sticker is not required for the Rock Island ferry parking lot.
- Camping in the Wisconsin State Park System.
- Hunting and fishing licenses apply.
Learn about the property
Friends Group
The Friends of Rock Island State Park [exit DNR] is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the Wisconsin DNR in preserving and maintaining Rock Island's rich history and wild spaces for future generations. The Friends provide volunteer services and financial support for the interpretive, educational, recreational, and visitor service programs at Rock Island State Park. Visit the Friends website for information on becoming a lighthouse docent or campground host.
Concessions
Jackson Harbor – Drinking water is available and there is a small camp store with an ATM, basic camping supplies, ice and some food items. There are also public restrooms. Kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available as well as guided tours.
Rock Island – Drinking water and restrooms are available on the island. Souvenirs can be purchased at the boathouse (cash only) and lighthouse (cash only). Firewood is available on the island for purchase (cash only). Kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available. There is no camp store on the island so please plan accordingly.
Please see the Island Adventure Company website for more information on the Jackson Harbor Camp Store and Washington Island Watersports website for more information on paddle sport rentals and guided tours.
Management and planning
For more information about planning for this property, see Property Master Plans.
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