NEWPORT STATE PARK
Newport, northeast of Ellison Bay, is Wisconsin's only formally designated wilderness park. With 2,373 acres and 11 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline it offers quiet alternatives to bustling Door County.
There are evergreen and hardwood forests, wetlands, and upland meadows. The park has an interpretive center and naturalist program.
Newport offers 38.3 miles of trails, all of them open for hiking. Of these, 16.8 miles also are open to off-road bicycles. In the winter, 26.3 miles of trails are available for cross-country skiing, including, 12.5 miles groomed and tracked for classical skiing and 2 miles groomed for skate skiing, and 4.5 miles are open for snowshoeing.
Newport has 16 backpack campsites, 13 of which can be reserved. The park also offers winter backpack camping.
A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required on all motor vehicles stopping in state parks, forests and recreation areas, please visit the
VEHICLE ADMISSION STICKERS web page.
Newport State Park, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, offers a serene swimming experience. The park features an undeveloped sandy beach where visitors can enjoy swimming in the clear waters. There are no lifeguards on duty; therefore, swimmers should exercise caution and swim at their own risk. Swimming conditions vary with weather changes so it's advisable to check forecasts before planning your visit for water activities.
Please note that amenities such as showers or concessions stands may not be available directly at the beach area within Newport State Park since it is designated as a wilderness state park emphasizing minimal development and facilities to preserve its natural condition.
Anglers can enjoy shore and kayak fishing in the park's Lake Michigan waters. Common catches include salmon, trout, and smallmouth bass.