The park was formed by the merger of Terry Andrae State Park and the Kohler Park property.
The dunes are held in place by specialized native plants like marram grass and sand cherry.
The park is located on a major migratory path for waterfowl and songbirds.
The beach area features 'sand lace,' created when wind erodes softer sand around buried twigs or roots.
The park's geology is heavily influenced by glacial activity that formed the Lake Michigan basin.
The sand dunes are considered a fragile ecosystem that requires protection from foot traffic.
Kohler-Andrae State Park features two miles of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline backed by extensive sand dunes. The park preserves one of the last remaining natural dune systems in Wisconsin. Hikers can access the Dunes Cordwalk, an elevated wooden boardwalk designed to protect fragile vegetation while providing dune access. The park encompasses 988 acres of forest, wetland, and beach ecosystems. Visitors can utilize 137 family campsites, including sites with electrical hookups and accessible facilities. The Sanderling Nature Center serves as an educational hub for local geology and wildlife. Multiple trails ranging from easy walking paths to longer forest hikes connect the diverse landscapes. Birdwatchers frequently observe migratory species along the Lake Michigan flyway.
The Dunes Cordwalk during golden hour for shots of the dunes against the lake horizon.
Bring insect repellent during early summer months to manage mosquitoes.
Check beach conditions before arriving, as high water levels or strong winds can impact shoreline accessibility.
Pack layers as temperatures near the lake are often significantly cooler than inland areas.
Do not climb or walk on the sand dunes outside of designated paths, as this destroys fragile dune-stabilizing plants.
The Sanderling Nature Center has seasonal operating hours; campsites are open for reservation with some sites closed in winter.
Stay on marked trails and boardwalks to prevent erosion of the sand dunes; keep pets on a leash at all times.
