Dog-Friendly Door County: 70+ Places Your Pup Will Love
Photo: Destination Door County
Door County has earned a reputation as one of the Midwest’s most dog-friendly vacation destinations.
Across the peninsula, families can find designated dog beaches, off-leash parks, hiking trails, restaurant patios, breweries, wineries, boat tours and lodging properties that genuinely welcome four-legged guests.
This guide covers dog-friendly stops around Sturgeon Bay, Jacksonport, Egg Harbor, Fish Creek, Ephraim, Sister Bay, Baileys Harbor, Ellison Bay and Washington Island.
Before visiting any privately owned business, confirm its current pet policy. Patio availability, lodging fees and seasonal hours can change without notice.
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What to Know Before Visiting
Dogs must generally remain on a leash eight feet or shorter in Wisconsin state parks. Pets are usually permitted on trails and in campgrounds but are prohibited from park buildings, playgrounds, designated swimming beaches and most picnic areas unless an area is specifically designated for pets.
Municipal beaches throughout Door County generally do not allow dogs. Stick with designated pet-swimming areas, dog parks and private properties that expressly permit them.
Dog-friendly restaurant seating is almost always outdoors and seasonal. Even a restaurant known for welcoming dogs may close its patio during poor weather or busy periods.
Dog-Friendly State Parks and Hiking Trails
Door County is home to five Wisconsin state parks. All offer at least some opportunities for visitors traveling with dogs, although restrictions differ by park and by recreation area.
Potawatomi State Park
Address: 3740 Park Drive, Sturgeon Bay
Official information:Wisconsin DNR: Potawatomi State Park
Potawatomi State Park covers approximately 1,200 acres along the shore of Sturgeon Bay. Dogs are generally permitted on hiking trails when trails are not groomed for skiing, provided they remain leashed.
The park is also the eastern terminus of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, making it a strong choice for families seeking a longer walk with their dog.
Pets are not permitted in buildings, playgrounds, designated swimming areas or most picnic areas.
Whitefish Dunes State Park
Address: 3275 Clark Lake Road, Sturgeon Bay
Official information:Wisconsin DNR: Whitefish Dunes State Park
Whitefish Dunes has one of Wisconsin’s best-known state-park pet swim areas.
The designated dog beach is about a three-quarter-mile walk from the parking area. Follow the Red Trail toward the southern end of the beach.
From April 1 through November 1, pets are prohibited on the main beach section extending from the nature center to the third beach access. Dogs may use the designated pet swim area and are welcome on most hiking trails when leashed.
Whitefish Dunes is a day-use park and requires a Wisconsin state-park vehicle admission pass.
Crossroads at Big Creek
Address: 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay
Website:Crossroads at Big Creek
Leashed dogs are welcome at the Big Creek and Ida Bay preserves. Dogs are not permitted at the Cove Preserve because of its sensitive nesting-bird habitat.
The preserve offers a network of relatively gentle trails through woodland, meadow and wetland habitats. Admission is free, although donations support the organization’s conservation and education work.
Cave Point County Park
Address: 5360 Schauer Road, Sturgeon Bay
Official information:Door County Parks: Cave Point County Park
Leashed dogs are welcome at Cave Point County Park.
The park is known for its dramatic limestone ledges, underwater caves and Lake Michigan views. Exercise caution near the unfenced cliff edges, particularly when trails are wet, icy or crowded.
Cave Point connects with trails leading toward Whitefish Dunes State Park, although the pet restrictions at Whitefish Dunes still apply once you enter the state park.
Peninsula State Park
Address: 9462 Shore Road, Fish Creek
Official information:Wisconsin DNR: Peninsula State Park
Dogs are permitted on most Peninsula State Park hiking trails unless an area is specifically posted otherwise. They must remain on a leash eight feet or shorter.
Pets are not allowed at Nicolet Beach, in park buildings, on playgrounds or in most general picnic areas. A designated pet picnic area is available in the Pines area near Nicolet Beach.
Because Peninsula is one of Wisconsin’s busiest parks, quieter trails and early-morning visits may be more comfortable for dogs that are nervous around crowds, bicycles or other animals.
Learn more about the surrounding community in our complete Fish Creek family guide.
Newport State Park
Address: 475 County Road NP, Ellison Bay
Official information:Wisconsin DNR: Newport State Park
Newport State Park offers more than 2,300 acres, approximately 30 miles of trails and 11 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails and at campsites. Pets are prohibited at the designated Newport Bay swimming beach, but dog-friendly shoreline access is available in the Europe Bay area.
Severe storms brought down hundreds of trees in the southern portion of the park in 2025. All trails and campsites were reported open as of June 8, 2026, although campsites 6–13 experienced the greatest impact.
Newport is also an International Dark Sky Park. Dogs may accompany visitors during an evening stargazing trip, but bring a leash, light and reflective gear.
Ellison Bluff County Park
Address: 12050 Ellison Bluff Road, Ellison Bay
Leashed dogs are welcome at this 174-acre county park.
Its main attraction is a viewing platform overlooking the Green Bay shoreline from the top of a limestone bluff. A wooded trail also loops through the park.
Keep dogs securely leashed near the bluff and observation area.
Door Bluff Headlands County Park
Location: Near Gills Rock at the northern end of the peninsula
Door Bluff Headlands is a rugged, largely undeveloped county park with high limestone bluffs, wooded terrain and Green Bay shoreline.
Leashed dogs are allowed, but this is not a manicured walking park. Trails may be rough, faint or muddy, and there are few facilities.
Bring water and use extra caution near cliffs.
Mink River Estuary and Schoenbrunn Trail
Location: County Road NP near Newport State Park
Information:The Nature Conservancy: Mink River Preserve
The Schoenbrunn Trail provides a short woodland walk near the Mink River Estuary. Leashed dogs are generally welcome, but owners should keep pets away from wildlife and sensitive shoreline habitat.
Rock Island State Park
Access: Washington Island Ferry to Washington Island, followed by the Rock Island Ferry
Official information:Wisconsin DNR: Rock Island State Park
Rock Island is a remote, vehicle-free state park reached by taking two ferries.
Leashed dogs are welcome on the ferries, hiking trails, shoreline and designated campsites. Pets ride free on both the Washington Island and Rock Island ferries.
The island offers rustic walk-in camping, approximately 10 miles of hiking trails, the historic Pottawatomie Lighthouse and undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline.
Pack everything your dog will need. Services are extremely limited once you reach Rock Island.
Off-Leash Dog Parks in Door County
Door County has four established off-leash dog parks.
Shiloh Road Bark Park
Location: South of Sturgeon Bay on County Road U
Shiloh Road Bark Park is open 24 hours and includes approximately four acres of fenced space, with separate sections for small and large dogs.
Captain Baileys Dog Park
Address: 2567 Summit Road, Baileys Harbor
This large dog park covers approximately 40 acres and includes separate areas for large and small dogs.
Sister Bay Dog Park
Location: Autumn Court next to the Sister Bay Sports Complex
The fenced grassy park measures approximately 200 by 300 feet and includes picnic tables and waste-bag stations. There is no admission charge.
More nearby ideas can be found in our Sister Bay family guide.
Harbor Hounds Dog Park
Location: Village View Park at Church Street and Harbor School Road, Egg Harbor
Harbor Hounds includes approximately two fenced acres divided into large- and small-dog sections. Benches and picnic tables are available, and water is typically provided during summer.
See Destination Door County’s official dog-park directory for current information and directions.
Dog-Friendly Beaches and Swimming Areas
Whitefish Dunes Pet Swim Area
This is the most reliable public dog-swimming destination in Door County.
The designated area requires a three-quarter-mile walk from the main parking area, so bring water and be prepared to carry your supplies.
Dogs must remain leashed except where posted otherwise.
Newport State Park’s Europe Bay Area
Dogs are not allowed at Newport Bay’s designated swimming beach, but leashed pets may access shoreline areas around Europe Bay and portions of the shoreline south of the main swimming area.
Conditions can be rocky, windy and wavy.
Beachfront Inn’s Private Beach
Address: 8040 Highway 57, Baileys Harbor
Website:Beachfront Inn
Guests staying in designated dog-friendly first-floor rooms may bring dogs to the inn’s private beach.
Dogs must remain leashed in public areas but may be allowed to run and swim off-leash on the beach as long as they do not disturb other guests. A waiver and pet fee may apply.
Rock Island State Park Shoreline
Rock Island offers miles of primitive shoreline where leashed dogs are welcome. This is the most remote option and requires two ferry rides.
Beaches That Generally Prohibit Dogs
Dogs are generally prohibited at the principal municipal swimming beaches in:
Sister Bay
Fish Creek
Ephraim
Egg Harbor
Baileys Harbor
They are also prohibited from Nicolet Bay Beach at Peninsula State Park and the main swimming beach at Newport State Park.
Rules can change, so check posted signs before entering any beach.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants, Breweries and Cafes
Wisconsin food-service regulations generally keep pets out of indoor dining areas unless an exception applies. Most Door County restaurants that welcome dogs do so on patios, decks or beer gardens.
Patios may be seasonal, weather-dependent or unavailable during particularly busy service periods.
Baileys Harbor
Harbor Fish Market & Grille
Address: 8080 Highway 57
Website:Harbor Fish Market & Grille
Dogs are welcomed at designated outdoor tables. The restaurant is particularly well known for offering a dog menu with items such as kibble, a pup steak and frozen custard.
Door County Brewing Co.
Address: 8099 Highway 57
Website:Door County Brewing Co.
Leashed dogs are welcome in the outdoor beer garden. Dogs are not permitted inside the taproom.
The spacious yard, live music and casual atmosphere make this one of the peninsula’s easiest brewery stops with a dog.
Sister Bay
Stabbur Beer Garden at Al Johnson’s
Address: 10698 North Bay Shore Drive
Website:Stabbur Beer Garden
Dogs are welcome in the outdoor beer garden but not inside the main Al Johnson’s restaurant.
The seasonal garden offers drinks, casual Scandinavian-inspired food and views of downtown Sister Bay.
Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza
Address: 10385 North Water Street
Website:Wild Tomato
Well-behaved dogs may join guests at designated outdoor tables when the patio is open.
Husby’s Food & Spirits and The Garage
Address: 10641 North Bay Shore Drive
Website:Husby’s
The Garage is Husby’s outdoor bar and entertainment area. Dogs are commonly welcomed outside, subject to event and crowd conditions.
Door County Creamery
Address: 10653 North Bay Shore Drive
Website:Door County Creamery
Outdoor seating is available for customers visiting with leashed dogs. One person may need to remain outside with the dog while another orders.
Twelve Eleven Wine Bar + Provisions
Address: 10631 North Bay Shore Drive
Website:Twelve Eleven
The outdoor seating area is known for welcoming well-behaved dogs. Confirm availability before visiting because seating and service can vary by season.
Fish Creek
Blue Horse Beach Cafe
Address: 4097 Main Street
Website:Blue Horse Beach Cafe
Leashed dogs are welcome at designated outdoor tables. The cafe is a convenient breakfast, coffee or lunch stop near the Fish Creek waterfront.
Not Licked Yet Frozen Custard
Address: 4054 Main Street
Website:Not Licked Yet
Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating and play areas. The business has traditionally offered small dog-friendly custard treats, although availability should be confirmed when ordering.
Wild Tomato Fish Creek
Address: 4023 Highway 42
The original Fish Creek location provides dog-friendly outdoor tables when the patio is open.
Julie’s Park Cafe
Address: 4020 Highway 42
Website:Julie’s Park Cafe
The cafe offers seasonal outdoor seating near the entrance to Peninsula State Park. Julie’s also has a limited number of pet-friendly motel rooms.
Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery
Address: 9197 Highway 42
Website:Lautenbach’s Orchard Country
Leashed dogs are welcome in designated outdoor areas. Policies concerning indoor spaces can depend on crowds and food-service operations, so plan on remaining outside.
Egg Harbor
One Barrel Brewing Company
Address: 4633 Market Street
Website:One Barrel Brewing Company
Dogs are welcome in the large outdoor beer garden but not inside the taproom.
Casey’s BBQ & Smokehouse
Address: 4860 Court Road
Website:Casey’s BBQ
The covered outdoor porch has traditionally welcomed leashed dogs when seating is available.
Stone’s Throw Winery
Address: 3382 County Road E
Website:Stone’s Throw Winery
Dogs are commonly welcomed in outdoor areas around the winery. Because tasting-room rules can vary, plan to use the patio or grounds.
Village Cafe
Address: 7918 Highway 42
Website:Village Cafe
The cafe has outdoor seating where leashed dogs may be permitted. Confirm patio availability before arriving.
Ephraim
Wilson’s Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor
Address: 9990 Water Street
Website:Wilson’s
Dogs may join their owners at designated outdoor tables when seating is available.
Chef’s Hat Cafe
Address: 3063 Church Street
Website:Chef’s Hat Cafe
The restaurant’s seasonal outdoor patio has traditionally welcomed leashed dogs.
Ellison Bay
Island Orchard Cider
Address: 12040 Garrett Bay Road
Website:Island Orchard Cider
Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio but not inside the production and tasting facility.
Sturgeon Bay and Carlsville
Bridge Up Brewing
Website:Bridge Up Brewing
Bridge Up Brewing has relocated its principal taproom operation to The Cherry Hut near Fish Creek. Leashed dogs are typically welcome in its outdoor seating areas.
Kitty O’Reillys Irish Pub
Address: 59 North Madison Avenue
Website:Kitty O’Reillys
The outdoor patio is known for welcoming dogs when it is open.
Door County Coffee & Tea Co.
Address: 5773 Highway 42, Carlsville
Website:Door County Coffee
Leashed dogs are welcome at the shaded outdoor tables. Dogs cannot enter the restaurant or retail store.
Simon Creek Vineyard & Winery
Address: 5896 Bochek Road
Website:Simon Creek Vineyard
The winery’s large outdoor deck is a popular stop with dogs, particularly during seasonal live-music events.
Door Peninsula Winery
Address: 5806 Highway 42
Website:Door Peninsula Winery
Dogs are permitted in the outdoor wine-garden area but not inside the winery, store or distillery.
Dog-Friendly Shops and Attractions
Door County Dog Store and Stove Dog Bakery
Address: 230 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay
Website:Door County Dog Store
Leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome inside.
The store carries locally made treats, toys, collars, apparel, food and travel supplies. A self-service dog-wash station is also available.
Door County Country Store
Address: 317 Green Bay Road, Sturgeon Bay
Website:Door County Hardware and Country Store
Leashed pets may accompany their owners while shopping. The store carries a variety of pet foods, toys, bowls and other supplies.
Just Paws Door County
Address: Main Street Shops, 7828 Highway 42, Egg Harbor
Website:Just Paws Door County
Dogs are welcome inside this pet boutique, which carries treats, toys, collars, harnesses, life jackets and Door County-themed pet products.
Hands On Art Studio
Address: 3655 Peninsula Players Road, Fish Creek
Website:Hands On Art Studio
Leashed dogs are welcome around much of the studio’s outdoor campus. Owners must keep dogs away from the resident chickens, cats and other animals.
Confirm whether your dog may enter the specific studio building where your activity takes place.
Farmers Markets
Leashed dogs are commonly welcomed at several outdoor farmers markets, but individual market rules can change.
Potential options include:
Sturgeon Bay Farmers Market
Fish Creek Farmers Market
Sister Bay Farmers Market
Ephraim Farmers Market
Baileys Harbor Farmers Market
Egg Harbor Farmers Market
Check each community’s current market page before bringing a dog, especially during busy weekends.
Dog-Friendly Lodging
Pet rules can vary by room type, dog size, season and number of pets. Always book directly with the property and confirm that you have reserved a designated dog-friendly room.
Country House Resort
Address: 2468 Sunnyside Road, Sister Bay
Website:Country House Resort
Country House welcomes guests ages 13 and older and well-behaved dogs.
The wooded property includes approximately 27 acres, private shoreline and nature trails. Dog amenities and fees depend on the reservation, so call the resort directly.
Beachfront Inn
Address: 8040 Highway 57, Baileys Harbor
Website:Beachfront Inn
The entire first floor includes dog-friendly rooms. Guests must complete a pet waiver, and dogs must be leashed in public areas.
Dogs may run and swim off-leash on the private beach provided they remain under control and do not disturb other guests.
Open Hearth Lodge
Address: 2669 South Bay Shore Drive, Sister Bay
Website:Open Hearth Lodge
Open Hearth has designated dog-friendly accommodations and separates those rooms from non-pet areas.
The property includes grassy areas and walking space. Confirm the current nightly pet charge and room availability directly.
Edgewater Resort
Address: 10040 North Water Street, Ephraim
Website:Edgewater Resort dog-friendly accommodations
Edgewater offers a limited selection of dog-friendly condos and seasonal cottages. Additional units may occasionally become available, so calling directly is recommended even when online inventory appears full.
Holiday Music Motel
Address: 30 North First Avenue, Sturgeon Bay
Website:Holiday Music Motel
The motel offers a limited number of pet-friendly rooms within walking distance of downtown Sturgeon Bay. Confirm current fees, size restrictions and room availability when booking.
Julie’s Park Cafe and Motel
Address: 4020 Highway 42, Fish Creek
Website:Julie’s Park Cafe and Motel
Pet-friendly motel rooms are available near Peninsula State Park. Julie’s affiliated Countryside Cottages also offer pet-friendly accommodations a short distance outside Fish Creek.
State-Park Campgrounds
Dogs are welcome at designated campsites in Peninsula, Potawatomi, Newport and Rock Island state parks.
Pets must remain leashed and cannot be left unattended. They are not permitted in park buildings, playgrounds or designated swimming beaches.
Reserve sites through the Wisconsin State Park reservation system.
Dog-Friendly Boat Tours and Ferries
Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours
Location: Sister Bay Marina
Website:Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours
Dogs are welcomed on many cruises, subject to the captain’s discretion, weather and passenger load.
Contact the company before booking to confirm that your particular cruise is pet-friendly.
Sail Door County
Location: Sister Bay Marina
Website:Sail Door County
Sail Door County welcomes dogs aboard its sailing vessels, and dogs sail free. Advance notice is recommended, especially for larger dogs or shared cruises.
Bella Sailing Cruises
Location: South Shore Pier, Ephraim
Website:Bella Sailing Cruises
Well-behaved dogs may be permitted aboard the small sailboat. Because space is limited, call before reserving.
Kayak Tours
Some Door County kayak operators allow dogs on private or appropriately sized tours. A properly fitted canine life jacket is essential.
Policies vary according to dog size, weather, water conditions and the experience of both dog and owner. Confirm approval before booking rather than arriving with your dog unexpectedly.
Washington Island Ferry
Departure: Northport Pier at the northern end of Highway 42
Website:Washington Island Ferry Line
Leashed pets ride free. Dogs may remain in the vehicle or accompany passengers on the main outdoor deck.
For 2026, round-trip fares are:
Adults: $16
Children ages 6–11: $8
Children 5 and younger: Free
Standard automobile: $30, not including occupants
Pets: Free
Arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
Traveling onward to Rock Island requires a second ferry and separate fare, although pets also ride the Rock Island Ferry free.
Other Dog-Friendly Attractions
Northern Sky Theater
Outdoor amphitheater: Inside Peninsula State Park
Website:Northern Sky Theater
Leashed dogs are generally permitted at outdoor amphitheater performances but not at the indoor Gould Theater.
Guests with dogs are typically seated along an aisle or toward the back. Contact the box office before purchasing tickets to confirm the current procedure.
Skyway Drive-In Theatre
Address: 3475 Highway 42, Fish Creek
Website:Skyway Drive-In Theatre
Dogs are welcome provided they remain leashed, quiet and under control. Owners should prevent barking during the movies and clean up after their pets.
Packing List for a Door County Dog Trip
Bring:
A sturdy leash eight feet or shorter
A backup leash
Collar identification and vaccination information
Waste bags
Portable water and a collapsible bowl
Tick protection
A towel for muddy paws
A canine life jacket for boating or paddling
A dog first-aid kit
A cooling mat or shaded resting spot
Food and medications for the full trip
A crate if required by your lodging property
Door County has ticks, rocky shorelines, steep cliffs and occasionally rough Lake Michigan water. Check your dog after hikes and keep pets away from cliff edges.
Veterinary Care
Animal Clinic of Sturgeon Bay
Phone: 920-743-2328
Website:Animal Clinic of Sturgeon Bay
Door County Veterinary Hospital
Phone: 920-743-7777
Website:Door County Veterinary Hospital
BluePearl Pet Hospital in Green Bay
For after-hours or advanced emergency care, Green Bay may be the closest full-service option.
Website:BluePearl Pet Hospital Green Bay
Call before driving because emergency hours and intake availability can change.
Final Tips
Door County is remarkably welcoming to travelers with dogs, but “dog-friendly” rarely means unrestricted.
Keep your dog leashed except in designated off-leash areas, follow posted beach rules and never assume a restaurant patio or lodging room will allow pets without confirmation.
For current listings, trip-planning ideas and pet-friendly accommodations, consult Destination Door County’s pet-friendly vacation guide before your visit.
With a little advance planning, you can spend the day hiking near Lake Michigan, relax at a brewery or winery patio, ride a ferry and settle into genuinely pet-friendly lodging—all without leaving your best friend behind.
Information reviewed and updated July 2026. Pet policies, admission prices, ferry fares, operating hours and lodging fees may change. Confirm directly before visiting.
Heading to Door County for the first time? This complete first-timer’s guide covers when to go, where to stay, what to eat, and the must-do stops.