Whitefish Dunes State Park Conditions

Conditions as of Thursday, February 2, 2012:

• Trails
• Events
• Nature
• Pets
• Shelter Building
• Vehicle Admission Stickers

Trails

Trails were last groomed on January 30. Since then there has been considerable melting during the day and freezing overnight, resulting in mostly ice, with some snow and several bare spots. Skiing is not recommended at this time. 

Events

Saturday, February 18, 2012 - Quiet Side Bird Exploration, 6 – 9 p.m. Join amateur birders Bill and Sarah Krouse for a morning of winter lakeshore birding. Begin at Whitefish Dunes to learn the basics of winter bird watching (with refreshments) then carpool to various hot birding spots (Cave Point, Jacksonport, Baileys Harbor). The group will travel northward before returning to the park. Depending on current birding information, travels may take the group to different sites than listed. Dress warmly, bring water and a snack; as trip may include a stop for lunch if birding provides to be extremely successful. Trip participants receive 15 percent off all bird books at the park store. 9 a.m. - noon.

See the DNR Events Calendar for a list of events at Whitefish Dunes and other state parks.

Nature

When traveling along the Green Trail, you may spot small green trees growing on the ground. While they may look like small pine trees, these are truly a unique plant. Growing no taller than 7 inches in height, these tiny pines are really a type of club moss. Club moss comes in many types. Most commonly seen is the tree club moss or princess pine, it resembles a small pine tree. Standing tall despite its small size, the shinning and stiff club mosses can also be found among the hemlocks and cedars. The best way to know the difference without a microscope is a gentle touch; the stiff club moss is adeptly named. With a watchful eye, the wolf’s-foot club moss can be found. This club moss branches at the tip giving the plant its name.

Pets

The entire beach is now open to dogs. Here are a few simple rules to ensure that you, your pet, and other visitors will enjoy the park. These rules apply to all pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

• Pets must be on a leash no longer than 8 feet at all times. Using a leash helps prevent your pet from bothering park wildlife and people, especially other pets. Leashing your pet also can help you control what your pet can consume, helping ensure its safety and health.
• Be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your pet.
• A map to the dog beach is available in the nature center.

Shelter Building

The shelter building is now being reserved for private parties, weddings, family reunions, and gatherings. If you are interested in reserving the shelter building, contact the park for more information and availability of dates. Please be respectful of others and the Friends by cleaning up the shelter after using it.

Driftwood

Removing driftwood from state property is prohibited by law. The wood is part of the unique character of a Great Lakes beach. It may also be a part of our shipping history that everyone should know and enjoy. Want to know what the park does with the washed up shipwreck pieces? Some items are so fragile that they are turned over to the State Historical Society. More hardy pieces are used in educational programs.

Vehicle Admission Stickers

When the park office is closed, use the self-registration station to buy admission stickers. The state park annual stickers are available at the park office/nature center and are valid until December 31.

More Information

There is no camping at Whitefish Dunes State Park.

For more information, ask Whitefish Dunes State Park, (920) 823-2400.

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