Kohler-Andrae State Park

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kohler-Andrae State Park is a beautiful natural area located in the state of Wisconsin, and it is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The park boasts a number of exceptional features that make it a must-see attraction in the region.

One of the main draws of Kohler-Andrae State Park is its stunning coastline along Lake Michigan, which features miles of sandy beaches and dunes. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and other water-based activities in the lake, as well as hiking, biking, and picnicking in the park's lush forests and meadows.

Some of the most popular points of interest in the park include the Sanderling Nature Center, which features interactive exhibits on the park's ecology and history, and the Black River Trail, a scenic hiking and biking path that winds through the park's forested areas. Additionally, the park has several campgrounds, picnic areas, and playgrounds for families to enjoy.

For visitors who are interested in the natural history of the area, there are several interesting facts to discover about Kohler-Andrae State Park. For example, the park's dunes are among the most extensive in the state, and they are home to several rare plant and animal species. Additionally, the park's beaches are a popular nesting site for the endangered Piping Plover bird.

The best time of year to visit Kohler-Andrae State Park depends on the activities you are interested in. The park is open year-round, but the summer months are the most popular for swimming, boating, and other outdoor activities. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking and birdwatching, as the park's foliage and wildlife are at their most vibrant during these seasons. Winter visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the park's trails.

Overall, Kohler-Andrae State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Wisconsin who appreciates natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and environmental conservation. With its diverse ecosystem, stunning beaches, and well-maintained facilities, the park is a true gem of the Midwest.

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks