About Rock Island State Park
Rock Island State Park is accessible only by ferry, requiring two crossings: first from Northport on the Door County Peninsula to Washington Island, then from Jackson Harbor on Washington Island to Rock Island. The final ferry is passenger-only; vehicles and bicycles must be left at the Washington Island landing. Visitors may also arrive by private boat, but must exercise caution due to hazardous reefs and unpredictable weather in Lake Michigan; overnight mooring incurs a nightly fee.
The island provides drinking water and restrooms, with souvenirs and firewood available for purchase at the boathouse and lighthouse (cash only). There is no camp store, so visitors should plan accordingly. The nonprofit Friends of Rock Island State Park supports the Wisconsin DNR in preserving the island’s history and natural areas through volunteer efforts and funding for interpretive and visitor programs.