Islands in the Sun: Surprise! They're in Wisconsin

You may be thinking: Wisconsin has islands? We sure do! From an archipelago in Lake Superior to the gems of Door County and rivers throughout the state dotted with scenic isles, Wisconsin is surprisingly full of islands ready for you to explore. Read on to discover your next island adventure right here in the Midwest.

Madeline Island

At 14 miles long and three miles wide, Madeline Island is the largest of the 22 islands that make up the Apostle Islands archipelago in Lake Superior. The only of these islands that have been developed, there’s plenty to explore in La Pointe, the main village. 

To reach the island, board the Madeline Island Ferry in Bayfield to make the 25-minute ride to paradise. While on the island, be sure to check out the Madeline Island Museum. This state historic site is made up of four log structures including the only remaining building of the American Fur Company built at La Pointe in 1835. There’s also a free one-hour Madeline Island Walking Tour with local guides serving up fascinating tidbits on the history of the island.

For boat and guided sea kayak tours, check out Adventure Vacations. This is your chance to explore sea caves, snorkel over a century-old shipwreck and tour historic lighthouses with your crew. Sailing charters are also a popular way to soak up the island vibes. Dreamcatcher Sailing offers a complete hands-on sailing experience, whether it's your first time sailing or you're a seasoned pro.

When you’re ready to call it a night, this island offers many ways to stay. There are two campgrounds on the island – Big Bay State Park and Big Bay Town Park. There’s also the Inn on Madeline Island, a group of properties including rental homes, cottages, condominiums and hotel rooms. Find the perfect kind of stay for you and your group with help from the Madeline Island Chamber of Commerce.

Turtle Flambeau Scenic Area - Iron County

The islands of the Turtle Flambeau Flowage in Wisconsin’s Northwoods give travelers an immersive outdoor experience without having to travel far. Set up camp at sites scattered throughout the flowage, all accessible only by water, which usually means canoe or kayak. Most are non-reservable, so first come, first served. The shallower eastern side is a designated quiet area, with no motorboats allowed. Lake Bastine provides access to the sandbar islands by boat, and it’s also where many of the area’s resorts are located.

Detailed canoe and kayak routes are available so you and your crew can plan ahead for your wilderness island vacation.. Find more information and start planning at the Mercer Area Chamber of Commerce.

Washington Island

Head five miles off the northeast tip of the Door County Peninsula through the waters known as Porte des Mortes or Death’s Door (home to numerous sunken shipwrecks) and you’ll land on Washington Island. At about 35 square miles, it’s the largest of the 30 islands sprinkled off the peninsula and one of the few open to the public. 

To tour the 100 miles of paved roads on the island, bring your vehicle and/or bikes via the Washington Island Ferry Line, which runs every half hour during high season. For a narrated crossing that will teach you all about the area’s history, book a ride on the Island Clipper.

For some fun in the sun, head to the south end of the island for Sand Dunes Beach. There’s also Percy Johnson County Park, with a gently sloping beach perfectly suited for little ones to do some wading.

For an extra unique beach experience, check out Schoolhouse Beach. This geological wonder is covered by white limestone pebbles made smooth and round by the tumbling action of the waves.

Take your pick of lodging choices knowing there isn’t a chain in the bunch. Choose a bed & breakfast like The Inn at Frog Hollow or from a number of resorts on the island. Find more information about Washington Island at the Destination Door County.

Rock Island

Think of Rock Island as the little sister island to Washington Island. After all, you’ll have to take a 10-minute ride on the Rock Island Ferry from Jackson Harbor on Washington Island to get to this primitive oasis. 

There are no permanent residents on this 912-acre island, and vehicles aren’t allowed. The entire island is a state park and while most people make it a day trip, there are also some great backpack camping sites. 

While you’re there, don’t miss Pottawatomie Lighthouse. Not only is it Wisconsin’s oldest lighthouse, it may also be the most unique, too. Volunteers live in the lighthouse for a week at a time on the condition that they serve as tour guides. Take a tour and climb to the lantern room for a breathtaking view of the island and beyond.

Lower Wisconsin River Sandbars

The 92 miles of the Lower Wisconsin River from the dam at Prairie du Sac to the confluence with the Mississippi River near Prairie du Chien is prime territory for sandbar islands. Canoeists, anglers, campers and other outdoor devotees flock here when water levels are low and sandbars are plentiful. There are no rapids or falls on the lower river either, making it a good fit for beginners who like a leisurely paddle pace. For more information, take a look at the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Board.

Book a guided overnight tour with a local outfitter for the full experience. Wisconsin River Outings is one of the largest outfitters with several hundred canoes and several dozen kayaks, and they specialize in memorable group outings. This stretch of river is protected, so you can spin around 360 degrees and you’ll see no development, just tree lines, bluffs and likely a bald eagle or two.

Can’t get enough of Wisconsin water? Check out the state’s ocean-like beaches.