Gateway to Lake Michigan at Illinois Beach State Park
Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
"Kenosha residents enjoy the short drive for beach days, birdwatching, and hiking in the park’s diverse habitats."
Illinois Beach State Park features six miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, sandy beaches, dunes, wetlands, and rare prairie habitats. Visitors enjoy swimming, hiking, fishing, and picnicking in a beautiful natural setting.
Richard Bong State Recreation Area
"Kenosha visitors often come for a day trip to hike, fish, or watch birds in a quieter natural setting than the lakeshore. It is close enough for an easy outing with family or friends."
Richard Bong State Recreation Area features more than 4,500 acres of restored prairie, wetlands, and oak savanna centered around several lakes. Visitors come for wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and one of Wisconsin's most popular off-road vehicle areas.
Big Foot Beach State Park
"Kenosha residents visit for a quick shoreline escape, especially in summer when swimming, boating, and picnicking are in season."
Big Foot Beach State Park is a compact but popular park in southeastern Wisconsin, centered on a sandy beach along Geneva Lake. It combines waterfront recreation with shaded picnic areas, camping, and seasonal outdoor activities in a scenic lake resort setting.
Lakeshore State Park
"Kenosha residents can enjoy a longer but manageable drive to experience Milwaukee’s lakefront and harbor setting. The park is a good choice for a day trip centered on walking and photography."
Lakeshore State Park is Wisconsin’s only urban state park, set along Milwaukee’s downtown lakefront. Visitors come for easy walking and biking, fishing access, birdwatching, and panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.
Harrington Beach State Park
"Kenosha visitors may come north for a less crowded Lake Michigan park and a more natural shoreline setting. It is a solid option for a coastal day trip."
Harrington Beach State Park offers a mix of beach access, inland lake scenery, and wooded recreation areas along Wisconsin's Lake Michigan coast. Its standout features include a long sandy shoreline, a former quarry lake, and opportunities for swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing.