On our recent spring break trip, we visited Cave Point County Park in Door County, Wisconsin. This public park, located on the east side of the peninsula, is a must-visit.
This was our third visit to this Door County natural wonder. Twice we camped at Peninsula State Park.
Being that it was mid-March and we were nearly 45 degrees north latitude, the weather was still wintery. I checked recent photos on Google maps and saw that the ground was icy, so we packed our Yaktrax.
Visit Cave Point County Park
Cave Point County Park has a Sturgeon Bay address, but it is located about 14 miles northeast of town. The town of Sturgeon Bay is located on its namesake, which is situated off the east side of Green Bay. Green Bay, which is part of Lake Michigan, ices over in winter. It is a stark contrast to the rest of the lake on the eastern side of the peninsula.
Things to do and see at Cave Point
- Lake Michigan
- amazing views
- limestone cliffs with blowholes
- underwater caves
- cliff jump
- swim
- hike
- kayak
- picnic
- fish
- birdwatch
- photography
- sunrise
- Scuba dive
- shipwreck nearby
Cave Point in Winter
The weather was perfect during our winter visit. It was sunny with temperatures in the upper 30s. The windy conditions created large swells on the lake, which crashed into the rocky cliffs.
In certain spots, the crashing waves create a high spray, which is cool to see. You can tell where this happens by the larger amounts of ice.
The rocky shoreline is shared with Whitefish Dunes State Park. We walked along the ridge south through the park and captured many great photos and videos.
This was one of the most amazing and beautiful places we have ever been to. It was everything I imagined and more!
Caution! You need to watch your step and keep track of children along the cliff’s edge at Lake Michigan. Crampons or spikes are a must along the slippery shore in the winter.
Cave Point County Park in Summer
This Door County park is most popular in the summer months, often resulting in full parking lots. There are 400,000 visitors to this county park, which is the only one known within a state park.
Cliff Jumping
Cave Point is best known as a cliff jumping destination. We jumped off the cliffs into Lake Michigan on a visit in August.
I was a little unsure but ended up jumping twice. My husband and daughter jumped several times.
While our first visit was at the hottest time of the year, the lake was quite chilly. Even if jumping off the rocks is not your thing, you will enjoy watching others do it.
See the Cliffs from the Water
Just north of the park, you will find a few outfitters that offer kayak rentals and tours.
Depending on weather conditions, you can see underwater caves and explore the coves along the shoreline. We recommend paddling on a calm day.
Have you been to Door County? It is a beautiful part of a Lake Michigan Circle Tour.