Dog-Friendly Door County: 70+ Places Your Pup Will Love

Photo: Destination Door County

The peninsula that juts into Lake Michigan like a thumb has earned its reputation as one of the Midwest's most dog-friendly destinations. Door County welcomes four-legged travelers with designated dog beaches, brewery patios serving pup treats, sailing cruises where dogs ride free, and lodging that rolls out the red carpet for canine guests. This comprehensive guide covers 70+ dog-friendly locations across Sturgeon Bay, Fish Creek, Ephraim, Sister Bay, Baileys Harbor, Egg Harbor, Ellison Bay, and Washington Island—everything you need to plan the perfect getaway with your best friend.

Whether you're seeking a Lake Michigan beach where your retriever can splash off-leash, a winery patio to share with your well-mannered companion, or a cozy resort with outdoor dog wash stations and welcome baskets, Door County delivers. Here's your complete, practical guide organized by community and category.

Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails and Parks

Door County's five state parks and numerous county parks offer spectacular hiking terrain, though dog policies vary significantly. Wisconsin state parks enforce an 8-foot maximum leash requirement, and dogs are typically prohibited from beaches, picnic areas, and buildings.

Sturgeon Bay Area

Potawatomi State Park

• Address: 3740 Park Drive, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 746-2890

• Website: dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/potawatomi

• Dog Policy: Dogs allowed on all trails when snow-free; 8-foot leash maximum; prohibited from buildings, playgrounds, picnic areas, and ski trails

• Hours: Year-round; vehicle admission sticker required ($13-$16 daily)

• Special Features: 1,200 acres with 2.5 miles of Sturgeon Bay shoreline, eastern trailhead of Ice Age National Scenic Trail, observation tower with 120-foot elevation views

Whitefish Dunes State Park ⭐ Best Dog Beach

• Address: 3275 Clark Lake Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 823-2400

• Website: dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/whitefish

• Dog Policy: Designated pet swim area accessible via 0.75-mile Red Trail; dogs allowed on all trails year-round; seasonal beach restriction April 1–November 1 prohibits dogs from main beach area

• Hours: Day-use only; no camping

• Special Features: 867 acres, 14.5 miles of trails, famous "singing sand" phenomenon, Old Baldy 93-foot dune with boardwalk

Crossroads at Big Creek Nature Preserve

• Address: 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 746-5895

• Website: crossroadsatbigcreek.org

• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome on-leash at Big Creek and Ida Bay Preserves; not permitted at Cove Preserve (nesting bird habitat); free admission

• Hours: Trails open 24 hours daily; Learning Center Monday–Friday 9:30am–3:30pm

• Special Features: 200 acres of diverse habitat, accessible crushed gravel trails, 24-hour restrooms, electric vehicle charging

Jacksonport Area

Cave Point County Park

• Address: 5360 Schauer Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 743-5511

• Website: co.door.wi.gov/CavePoint

• Dog Policy: Leashed dogs welcome; waste stations throughout; free admission

• Hours: Half-hour before sunrise to 11pm

• Special Features: 19 acres of dramatic wave-worn Dolomite limestone ledges, underwater caves, 900 feet of Lake Michigan shoreline, connects to Whitefish Dunes trails

Fish Creek Area

Peninsula State Park

• Address: 9462 Shore Road, Fish Creek, WI 54212

• Phone: (920) 868-3258

• Website: dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/peninsula

• Dog Policy: Dogs allowed in limited pet-friendly zones only—White Cedar Nature Trail, Pine Picnic Area, and rocky shores; prohibited from most trails, Nicolet Bay Beach, picnic sites, and buildings; 8-foot leash maximum

• Hours: Year-round

• Special Features: Wisconsin's most complete state park at 3,776 acres, 20+ miles of trails, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, 18-hole golf course, Northern Sky Theater

Ellison Bay Area

Newport State Park ⭐ Dark Sky Preserve

• Address: 475 County Road NP, Ellison Bay, WI 54210

• Phone: (920) 854-2500

• Website: dnr.wisconsin.gov/events/location/newport

• Dog Policy: Dogs allowed on designated trails and campsites; prohibited from Newport Bay swimming beach; Europe Bay beach area allows dogs; 8-foot leash maximum

• Hours: 6am–11pm daily

• Special Features: Wisconsin's only wilderness-designated state park, 11 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, 30 miles of trails, International Dark Sky Park for stargazing, 16 backpack-in wilderness campsites

Ellison Bluff County Park

• Address: 12050 Ellison Bluff Road, Ellison Bay, WI 54210

• Phone: (920) 743-5511

• Dog Policy: Leashed dogs welcome; free admission

• Hours: Half-hour before sunrise to 11pm

• Special Features: 174 acres, 100-foot limestone bluffs with enclosed catwalk observation deck extending over edge, 1.2-mile looped trail, spectacular sunset viewing

Door Bluff Headlands County Park

• Address: 12900 Door Bluff Park Road, near Gills Rock

• Phone: (920) 743-5511

• Dog Policy: Leashed dogs welcome; free admission

• Hours: Year-round (undeveloped, no facilities)

• Special Features: Door County's largest county park at 252 acres, 6,800 feet of Green Bay shoreline, vertical limestone bluffs, historic shipwreck "Fleetwing" visible in bay, rugged unmarked trails for adventurous hikers

Mink River Estuary—Schoenbrunn Trail

• Address: Trailhead on County Road NP, near Newport State Park

• Dog Policy: Leashed pets welcome; free admission

• Hours: Dawn to dusk

• Special Features: 0.8-mile trail with estuary views, excellent birdwatching, managed by The Nature Conservancy

Washington Island

Rock Island State Park

• Phone: (920) 847-2235

• Access: Ferry from Northport to Washington Island, then Karfi ferry to Rock Island

• Dog Policy: Leashed dogs allowed on trails, beaches, and designated campsites; 6-foot leash maximum

• Special Features: Uninhabited 912-acre island, 10+ miles of trails, Wisconsin's oldest lighthouse, miles of undeveloped beach, ultimate wilderness experience

Off-Leash Dog Parks

Door County maintains four dedicated dog parks where your pup can run free:

Dog Park Location Features Shiloh Road Bark Park South on County Road U, Sturgeon Bay 4 acres with separate small/large dog areas, open 24 hours Captain Bailey's Dog Park 2567 Summit Road, Baileys Harbor 40 acres, separate areas for large and small dogs, dusk to dawn Sister Bay Dog Park Autumn Court, Sister Bay 200'×300' fenced area, picnic tables, waste bags provided Harbor Hounds Dog Park Church Street & Harbor School Road, Egg Harbor 2 fenced acres, separate areas, water available in summer

Dog-Friendly Beaches

Most Door County municipal beaches prohibit dogs to maintain cleanliness. However, several excellent alternatives exist within state parks and at one exceptional county park.

Whitefish Dunes State Park Pet Beach ⭐ Top Pick

• Location: Sturgeon Bay (Lake Michigan side)

• Dog Policy: Designated dog beach southwest of Beach Access #3; 0.75-mile walk via Red Trail; dogs prohibited on main beach April 1–November 1

• Fees: $13 daily (WI residents), $16 daily (non-residents)

• Why Visit: Considered the best dog beach in Wisconsin's state park system—wide sandy swimming area on Lake Michigan

Newport State Park—Europe Bay Beach

• Location: Ellison Bay

• Dog Policy: Dogs allowed on Europe Bay beach area and shoreline south of Newport Bay swimming beach; main swimming beach prohibited

• Special Features: Wilderness setting, Dark Sky preserve for evening visits

Frank E. Murphy County Park ⭐ Best for Families

• Address: 7119 Bay Shore Drive, Egg Harbor (intersection of County Hwy G and Bay Shore Drive)

• Dog Policy: Dogs allowed on beach with leash; must clean up after pets

• Hours: Seasonal, no lifeguard

• Fees: Free beach access (parking fees may apply)

• Special Features: 14-acre park on Green Bay (warmer water than Lake Michigan), dock, boat launch, playground, volleyball, picnic pavilion

Beachfront Inn Private Beach ⭐ Only Off-Leash Hotel Beach

• Address: 8040 Hwy 57, Baileys Harbor

• Dog Policy: Guests at first-floor dog-friendly rooms can access private beach where dogs can run off-leash and swim

• Note: Requires booking dog-friendly room ($25/night pet fee)

Rock Island State Park Beach

• Access: Two ferries required (Washington Island Ferry + Karfi)

• Dog Policy: Dogs allowed on 5,000 feet of undeveloped beachfront, leashed

• Special Features: Most remote beach option, primitive wilderness setting

Beaches Where Dogs Are NOT Allowed

Sister Bay Beach, Fish Creek Beach, Ephraim Beach, Egg Harbor Beach, Baileys Harbor beaches, and Nicolet Bay Beach (Peninsula State Park) all prohibit dogs.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars

Wisconsin law prohibits dogs inside food establishments, but Door County's abundance of outdoor patios makes it a paradise for dining with dogs. All dog-friendly dining is patio-only and seasonal (typically May–October).

Baileys Harbor

Harbor Fish Market & Grille ⭐ Best Dog Menu

• Address: 8080 Highway 57, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202

• Phone: (920) 839-9999

• Website: harborfishmarket-grille.com

• Dog Policy: Outdoor waterfront patio only (May–October)

• Dog Amenities: Dedicated dog menu featuring Pup Steak, Doggie Kibble, frozen custard for dogs, water bowls

• Hours: Breakfast 7:30am, Lunch noon, Dinner 4:30pm

• Cuisine: Upscale seafood, live Maine lobster, traditional New England lobster boils

Door County Brewing Co. & Hacienda Beer Co. ⭐ Top Pick

• Address: 8099 Highway 57, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202

• Phone: (920) 412-7226

• Website: doorcountybrewingco.com

• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome in expansive outdoor beer garden; not allowed inside taproom

• Dog Amenities: Water bowls throughout yard, $2 peanut butter dog treats made by the brewers

• Hours: Year-round (check website for seasonal hours)

• Features: Craft beers from both labels, DCBC Eats BBQ next door, live music, Music Hall venue

Sister Bay

Stabbur Beer Garden at Al Johnson's ⭐ Iconic Experience

• Address: 10698 N Bay Shore Drive, Sister Bay, WI 54234

• Phone: (920) 854-2626

• Website: aljohnsons.com/stabbur

• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome in spacious outdoor beer garden only (not main restaurant with the famous goats on the roof)

• Dog Amenities: Staff frequently offer treats and attention

• Hours: Late May–mid-October, typically 11am–8pm

• Features: ~20 tap beers, aquavit shots, food from Stabbur Kök Kitchen including beef tenderloin sliders and loaded mac & cheese

Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza

• Address: 10385 N Water Street, Sister Bay, WI 54234

• Phone: (920) 854-4045

• Website: wildtomatopizza.com

• Dog Policy: 12 dog-friendly outdoor tables with table service

• Features: Artisan wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings, bay views, full bar

Husby's Food & Spirits / The Garage

• Address: 10466 N Water Street, Sister Bay, WI 54234

• Phone: (920) 854-2434

• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome at 10 outdoor tables at The Garage (open-air bar)

• Features: American and Mexican-inspired menu, famous whitefish tacos, live music

Door County Creamery

• Address: 10653 N Bay Shore Drive, Sister Bay, WI 54234

• Phone: (920) 854-3388

• Dog Policy: 4 outdoor tables; leashed dogs welcome outside while ordering

• Features: Frozen treats, sandwiches, Door County cheeses

Twelve Eleven Wine Bar + Provisions

• Address: 10631 N Bay Shore Drive, Sister Bay, WI 54234

• Website: 1211sisterbay.com

• Dog Policy: Pet-friendly patio with Adirondack chairs, fire pits

• Dog Amenities: Fresh water bowls available

• Features: Unique wines from Mendocino and Sonoma counties, charcuterie boards

Fish Creek

Blue Horse Beach Cafe

• Address: 4097 Main Street, Fish Creek, WI 54212

• Dog Policy: 4 pet-friendly outdoor tables

• Dog Amenities: Servers bring water bowls for dogs

• Hours: 7am–5pm daily

• Features: Organic fair-trade coffee, gluten-free baked goods

Not Licked Yet Frozen Custard ⭐ Free Dog Treats

• Location: Fish Creek waterfront

• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome at outdoor tables

• Dog Amenities: FREE "Puppy Cone" (Canine Custard Cone) for dogs!

• Features: Wisconsin frozen custard, burgers, playground, shoreline views

Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza (Fish Creek location)

• Address: 4023 Highway 42, Fish Creek, WI 54212

• Phone: (920) 868-3095

• Dog Policy: 12 dog-friendly outdoor patio tables with table service

Julie's Park Cafe

• Address: 4020 Highway 42, Fish Creek, WI 54212

• Dog Policy: Dog-friendly outdoor patio

• Features: Traditional American breakfast, lunch, local Door County products

Pelletier's Restaurant & Fish Boil

• Address: 4199 Main Street, Fish Creek, WI 54212

• Dog Policy: Pet-friendly outdoor tables (breakfast/lunch)

• Features: Traditional Door County fish boils nightly

Lautenbach's Orchard Country Winery

• Address: 9197 Highway 42, Fish Creek, WI 54212

• Phone: (920) 868-3479

• Website: orchardcountry.com

• Dog Policy: Leashed, well-behaved pets welcome on patio, grounds, and inside if not too crowded

• Features: 50+ award-winning wines and ciders, 100-acre orchard to explore, fresh bakery

Egg Harbor

One Barrel Brewing Company + Pizza Bros ⭐ Top Pick

• Address: 7809 Highway 42, Egg Harbor, WI 54209

• Website: onebarrelbrewing.com

• Dog Policy: Multi-tiered beer garden is pet-friendly; dogs not allowed inside

• Features: Craft beers and ciders, Roman-style wood-fired pizza, fire pits, outdoor heaters

Casey's BBQ and Smokehouse

• Address: 4860 Court Road, Egg Harbor, WI 54209

• Phone: (920) 868-3804

• Dog Policy: Covered dog-friendly porch/patio

• Features: Authentic BBQ using Door County cherry wood, smoked brisket and ribs

Stone's Throw Winery ⭐ Most Dog-Welcoming Winery

• Address: 3382 County Road E, Egg Harbor, WI 54209

• Phone: (920) 839-9660

• Website: stonesthrowwinery.com

• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome throughout the property—one of Door County's most dog-friendly wineries

• Dog Amenities: Meet Merlot, the resident winery dog; water bowls provided

• Hours: 10am–5pm daily

• Features: Premium California grape wines, bocce ball, Vino!Vino! wine bar with tapas

Village Cafe

• Address: 7918 Highway 42, Egg Harbor, WI 54209

• Dog Policy: Dog-friendly outdoor patio

• Hours: 7am–2pm daily (year-round)

• Features: Hearty breakfast served all day, famous coffee cake

Ephraim

Wilson's Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor

• Address: 9990 Water Street, Ephraim, WI 54211

• Dog Policy: Outdoor seating welcomes dogs

• Features: Classic American, homemade ice cream

Old Post Office Restaurant (at Edgewater Resort)

• Location: Edgewater Resort, Ephraim

• Dog Policy: Pet-friendly outdoor seating (May–October)

• Features: Traditional Door County fish boils—often considered the best in Door County

Chef's Hat

• Location: Ephraim

• Dog Policy: Umbrella-covered patio tables

• Dog Amenities: Complimentary water bowl and treats may be offered

Ellison Bay

Island Orchard Cider ⭐ Award-Winning Cider

• Address: 12040 Garrett Bay Road, Ellison Bay, WI 54210

• Phone: (920) 854-3344

• Website: islandorchardcider.com

• Dog Policy: Pet-friendly outdoor patio only (production facility—no dogs inside)

• Dog Amenities: Fresh water bowls on patio

• Hours: Fri–Sat 11am–5pm, Sun 11am–3pm (year-round with seasonal variation)

• Features: Award-winning gluten-free French-style hard ciders, build-your-own snack boards

Sturgeon Bay

Starboard Brewing Company

• Address: 151 N 3rd Avenue, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 818-1062

• Website: starboardbrewing.com

• Dog Policy: Family and dog-friendly taproom and outdoor seating

• Hours: Wed–Thu 3pm–8pm, Fri–Sat 11am–9pm, Sun 11am–6pm

• Features: Door County's first nanobrewery, rotating small-batch craft beers

Bridge Up Brewing (at Sonny's Pizzeria)

• Location: Lower level of Sonny's Pizzeria, Sturgeon Bay waterfront

• Dog Policy: Family and dog-friendly; enter ground level

• Features: Small-batch craft beers, waterfront patio, can order Sonny's pizza takeout

Wickman's 2 Brews

• Location: Downtown Sturgeon Bay (near 3rd Avenue)

• Dog Policy: Cozy pet-friendly patio

• Features: Wisconsin craft beers only, Black Cat espresso, near public alcohol consumption zone

Kitty O'Reilly's Irish Pub

• Location: Historic West Side, Sturgeon Bay

• Dog Policy: Pet-friendly patio

• Features: Irish favorites, fresh seafood, craft beers, weekly entertainment

Door County Coffee & Tea Company

• Address: 5773 Highway 42, Carlsville, WI 54235

• Phone: (800) 856-6613

• Website: doorcountycoffee.com

• Dog Policy: Shaded outdoor patio is pet-friendly

• Hours: 7:30am–5pm daily; drive-thru opens 6:30am

Simon Creek Vineyard & Winery

• Address: 5896 Bochek Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 746-9307

• Website: simoncreekvineyard.com

• Dog Policy: Spacious outdoor deck is pet-friendly

• Hours: May 15–Oct 31 daily 10am–6pm; Nov–May Fri–Mon 11am–4pm

• Features: Door County's largest vineyard, 200+ medal-winning wines, live music Sundays, food trucks

Door Peninsula Winery

• Address: 5806 Highway 42, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 743-7431

• Website: dcwine.com

• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome in outdoor Wine Garden only

• Hours: Summer daily 9am–6pm (Fri–Sat until 7pm); Winter daily 9am–5pm

• Features: Wisconsin's largest wine selection (45+ wines), free tastings and tours, attached Door County Distillery

Dog-Friendly Stores and Shops

Sturgeon Bay

Door County Dog Store & Stove Dog Bakery ⭐ Must Visit

• Address: 230 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 746-9000

• Website: doorcountydogstore.com

• Dog Policy: Well-mannered, leashed dogs welcome inside—"because it really IS all about them"

• Hours: Year-round (call for daily hours)

• Dog Amenities: Self-service dog wash station with waist-high tub, shampoo, towels, blow dryer (free treat included); seasonal photo-op props on outdoor deck; kiddie pool for dogs in summer; fresh frozen yogurt for dogs

• Products: Treats baked on-premises with human-grade ingredients, holistic foods including Fromm, leashes, collars, supplements, boots, apparel

Door County Country Store – True Value

• Address: 317 Green Bay Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 743-3422

• Website: doorcountytruevalue.com/country-store

• Dog Policy: "Bring your pets to help you shop"—dogs welcome inside

• Hours: Mon–Fri 7:30am–7pm, Sat 7:30am–4pm, Sun 9am–2pm

• Products: Quality pet foods (Taste of the Wild, Nutri Source), leashes, bowls, toys, grooming supplies; will special order brands

Sturgeon Bay Farmers Market

• Location: Downtown, 3rd Avenue & Nebraska Street

• Dog Policy: "Pets always welcome!"

• Hours: Saturdays 8am–12pm, June–October

• Features: Door County's largest farmers market with 80+ vendors

Egg Harbor

Just Paws Door County ⭐ Pet Boutique

• Address: Main Street Shops, 7828 Hwy 42, Egg Harbor

• Phone: (920) 890-8154

• Website: justpawsdc.com

• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome inside

• Hours: Summer extended hours; Nov–mid-May Thu–Sat 10am–4pm, Sun 10am–2pm; closed January–February

• Products: Toys, treats, collars, harnesses, life jackets, carriers, pet slings, Puppie Love apparel

Fish Creek

Hands On Art Studio ⭐ Unique Experience

• Address: 3655 Peninsula Players Road, Fish Creek, WI 54212

• Phone: (920) 868-9311

• Website: handsonartstudio.com

• Dog Policy: "Dogs are welcome throughout but must be leashed and cannot chase the chickens or cats"

• Hours: May–Oct daily 10am–6pm; Nov–mid-May Fri–Sun 10am–5pm

• Activities: DIY art studio—ceramics, wheel throwing, mosaics, canvas painting, fused glass; 10-acre campus with outdoor areas

Fish Creek Farmers Market

• Location: The Settlement Shops, 9106 Hwy 42

• Dog Policy: Leashed dogs welcome

• Hours: Wednesdays 9:30am–1:30pm, mid-May–October

Additional Farmers Markets (All Dog-Friendly)

Market Location Day/Time Season Sister Bay Corner of the Past, 10310 Fieldcrest Rd Sat 9am–1pm June–October Ephraim 10404 Water Street Mon 3:30pm–6:30pm June–August Baileys Harbor Town Hall Sun 9am–1pm May–October Egg Harbor Peg Egan Center Thu 4pm–7pm June–August

Dog-Friendly Lodging

Over 80 accommodations welcome dogs in Door County. However, several popular resorts—Landmark Resort, Little Sister Resort, Glidden Lodge, White Lace Inn, and AmericInn—do not allow pets.

Top Dog-Friendly Hotels and Resorts

Country House Resort ⭐ Best Overall (Adults Only)

• Address: 2468 Sunnyside Road, Sister Bay, WI 54234

• Phone: (920) 854-4551

• Website: countryhouseresort.com

• Pet Policy: $20/night per dog; up to 80 lbs; max 2 dogs; must call to book; proof of rabies vaccination required

• Dog Amenities: Welcome basket with treats, towels, furniture sheets, waste bags; dog beds and bowls on request; 1,100 feet of private shoreline; nature trails; outdoor dog wash station; "Riley's Recommendations" guide to local dog spots

Beachfront Inn ⭐ Best for Beach Dogs

• Address: 8040 Hwy 57, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202

• Phone: (920) 839-2345

• Website: beachfrontinn.net

• Pet Policy: $25/night per dog; dog waiver required; first floor only

• Dog Amenities: Private sand beach where dogs can run off-leash and swim; doggie bags throughout property

Open Hearth Lodge

• Address: 2669 South Bay Shore Drive, Sister Bay, WI 54234

• Phone: (920) 854-4890

• Website: openhearthlodgedoorcounty.com

• Pet Policy: $15/night per pet; no weight limit; dedicated dog-friendly building

• Dog Amenities: Massive yard and walking trails, dog-ready durable rooms, waste stations, fire pit gatherings welcome dogs

Edgewater Resort

• Address: 10040 N Water Street, Ephraim, WI 54211

• Phone: (920) 854-2734

• Website: edge-waterresort.com

• Pet Policy: $30/night first dog, $15/night second dog; call to confirm

• Dog Amenities: "Fun with Fido Package" with treats, toys, and local dog park list; waterfront condos and cottages on Eagle Harbor

Holiday Music Motel ⭐ Best Budget

• Address: 30 N 1st Avenue, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 743-5571

• Website: holidaymusicmotel.com

• Pet Policy: $10/night per pet (lowest fee!); small dogs preferred; max 2 dogs; 8 pet-friendly rooms—call ahead

• Dog Amenities: Grassy pet relief area, walkable to Door County Dog Store

Best Western Maritime Inn

• Address: 1001 N 14th Avenue, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 743-7231

• Pet Policy: $20/night per pet; up to 80 lbs; max 2 dogs

• Amenities: Pool, hot tub, complimentary breakfast, grassy pet area

Pet-Friendly Campgrounds

Peninsula State Park Campground ⭐ Most Popular

• Address: 9462 Shore Road, Fish Creek, WI 54212

• Phone: (920) 868-3258

• Pet Policy: No pet fee; 6-foot leash maximum; dogs allowed on most trails but not beaches or picnic areas

• Facilities: 468 campsites across 5 campgrounds, hot showers, flush toilets, electric hookups

• Reservations: Required—book up to 11 months ahead at reservations.wi.gov

Potawatomi State Park Campground

• Address: 3740 County Highway PD, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 746-2890

• Pet Policy: No pet fee; 6-foot leash; dogs welcome on hiking trails

• Facilities: 123 campsites (40 with electricity), showers, near Sturgeon Bay city

HTR Door County (formerly Egg Harbor Campground)

• Address: 8164 State Highway 42, Egg Harbor, WI 54209

• Website: htrdoorcounty.com

• Pet Policy: Pets allowed at RV sites; leashed; not allowed near beaches or buildings

• Facilities: Full hookup RV sites, cabins, adjacent to Orchards golf course

Vacation Rentals

Door County Cottages

• Website: doorcountycottages.com

• Pet Policy: Pet-friendly; call for specific cottage policies and fees

• Features: 6 deluxe cabin rentals with full kitchens, whirlpool tubs, saunas, fireplaces, private settings

VRBO/Airbnb: Over 370 pet-friendly rentals available in Door County; fees typically range $0–$100 per stay; filter by "pets allowed" and contact owners directly for specific policies.

Pet Fee Comparison

Property Nightly Pet Fee Weight Limit Peninsula State Park Free Any Potawatomi State Park Free Any Holiday Music Motel $10 Small preferred Open Hearth Lodge $15 Any Country House Resort $20 80 lbs Best Western Maritime $20 80 lbs Beachfront Inn $25 Any Edgewater Resort $30/$15 Any

Dog-Friendly Boat Tours and Water Activities

Several operators welcome dogs aboard, making Door County's spectacular coastline accessible to your furry first mate.

Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours ⭐ 5-Star Dog Rating

• Location: Downtown Sister Bay

• Phone: (920) 421-4444

• Website: doorcountyboats.com

• Dog Policy: Pet-friendly and wheelchair accessible; dogs welcome on board

• Tours: Daily narrated tours to Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, Death's Door, sunset live music cruises, fireworks trips

• Vessel: 149-passenger double-decker "Norra Dorr" catamaran

• Rating: 5.0 bones on BringFido—praised for knowledgeable staff and dog-friendly atmosphere

Sail Door County

• Location: Sister Bay Marina

• Website: saildoorcounty.com

• Dog Policy: Both boats are pet-friendly; dogs sail FREE

• Vessels: "Passage North" (6-passenger luxury) and "Edith M. Becker" (19th-century inspired, up to 22 passengers)

• Season: June–September

• Tours: Day tours, sunset sails, private charters, mimosa morning sails; food and drink welcome

Bella Sailing Cruises

• Address: South Shore Pier, 9993 Water St, Ephraim, WI 54211

• Phone: (920) 854-2628

• Dog Policy: Well-behaved dogs welcome; call ahead when reserving; must get along with resident dog "Lucky"

• Vessel: "Scuppers"—26-foot classic sailboat with wood masts and red sails

• Pricing: Adults $40, Children 5–12 $35, Dogs FREE

• Capacity: 6 passengers maximum

Door County Kayak Tours

• Address: 6339 WI-57, Jacksonport, WI 54235

• Phone: (920) 868-1400

• Website: doorcountykayaktours.com

• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome; you must bring your own canine life jacket; choose calm weather days

• Tours: Cave Point, Cana Island Lighthouse, Death's Door Bluff, Eagle Bluff

Cave Point Paddle and Pedal

• Website: cavepointpp.com

• Dog Policy: Now welcomes dogs of all sizes; canine life jacket required

• Tours: Kayak tours around Cave Point County Park

Washington Island Ferry

• Departure: Northport Pier (end of Highway 42)

• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome and ride FREE; leashed on main deck or stay in car

• Adult Ticket: $14

• Features: 30-minute ride passing Plum, Pilot, and Detroit Islands

Other Dog-Friendly Attractions

Wineries Worth Visiting

Stone's Throw Winery Baileys Harbor Throughout property Meet winery dog Merlot Lautenbach's Orchard Country Fish Creek Patio, grounds, inside (if not crowded) 100-acre orchard to explore Simon Creek Vineyard Sturgeon Bay Outdoor deck Live music Sundays Door Peninsula Winery Sturgeon Bay Outdoor Wine Garden Wisconsin's largest selection Harbor Ridge Winery Egg Harbor Patio Log cabin atmosphere Anchored Roots Vineyard Egg Harbor Patio Vineyard views

Entertainment

Northern Sky Theater ⭐ Outdoor Shows Allow Dogs

• Outdoor Amphitheater: 10169 Shore Rd (in Peninsula State Park), Fish Creek

• Phone: (920) 854-6117

• Website: northernskytheater.com

• Dog Policy: Dogs allowed at outdoor amphitheater shows only (mid-June–August); sit on aisle sides near back; indoor Gould Theater does NOT allow dogs

• Features: Original Wisconsin-centric musicals, post-show bonfire, pre-show picnic area

• Note: State park sticker not required if arriving within 1 hour of showtime

Skyway Drive-In Movie Theater

• Location: Fish Creek area

• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome—keep leashed or in car

• Features: Wisconsin's second-longest continuously running drive-in, two movies per night

General Tips for Visiting Door County with Dogs

Leash Laws and Etiquette

• State parks: 8-foot maximum leash required at all times

• County parks and public areas: Leash required (length varies)

• Always carry waste bags and clean up immediately

• Dogs prohibited from all municipal beaches (use designated dog beaches instead)

• Dogs prohibited from state park picnic areas, buildings, and most sandy beaches

Seasonal Considerations

• Peak season (June–August): Book pet-friendly lodging months in advance; outdoor dining available

• Shoulder seasons (May, September–October): Less crowded, pleasant hiking weather; some patios may close

• Winter: Many outdoor dining spots and some attractions closed; state parks remain open for winter hiking

• Beach restrictions: Most dog-friendly beach areas have April 1–November 1 restrictions—plan accordingly

Practical Packing List

• 8-foot or shorter leash (state park requirement)

• Collapsible water bowl and water bottles

• Waste bags (more than you think you'll need)

• Canine life jacket if kayaking or paddleboarding

• Proof of rabies vaccination (some lodging requires it)

• Dog first-aid kit

• Cooling mat or shade solution for hot days

Emergency Veterinary Services

• Animal Clinic of Sturgeon Bay: (920) 743-2328

• Door County Veterinary Hospital: (920) 743-7777

• Blue Pearl Animal Emergency Center (Green Bay): (920) 494-9400 (24-hour emergency)

Dog-Specific Events

Door County hosts various outdoor festivals throughout the year, most of which welcome leashed dogs. Simon Creek Vineyard hosts weekly live music on Sundays (dog-friendly deck), and Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours offers sunset live music cruises where pets are welcome. Check local event calendars for seasonal dog-focused gatherings and "yappy hours" at breweries.

Door County proves that traveling with your dog doesn't mean compromising on experiences. From paddling past sea caves with your pup wearing a life jacket to toasting with local ciders while your dog relaxes on a winery patio, this 70-mile peninsula delivers adventures that both ends of the leash will remember. Pack the treats, plan around beach restrictions, book your pet-friendly room early—and prepare for the kind of vacation that makes tails wag.

Information current as of January 2026. Always confirm policies directly with establishments before visiting, as fees and restrictions may change seasonally.