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Parks

Harrington Beach State Park

4.7 · 1,849 reviews
Serene and natural
Harrington Beach State Park, 531 Co Rd D, Belgium, WI 53004, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park contains Quarry Lake, a spring-fed body of water created by former stone quarrying activities.

2

The park's Welcome Center houses an observatory equipped with a 20-inch telescope for public stargazing events.

3

The shoreline is notable for large, rounded cobblestones rather than fine sand, a result of local geological formations.

4

The park is situated along a major migratory path for birds, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers in spring and fall.

5

The park includes the Puckett's Pond and a boardwalk section designed to protect sensitive dune ecosystems.

Overview

Harrington Beach State Park features a mile-long beach on Lake Michigan and the Ansay Welcome Center observatory, which hosts public astronomy viewings. The park encompasses 715 acres, including the limestone Quarry Lake, which is a remnants of a former mining operation. A network of trails traverses both forested and open meadow environments, providing birdwatching opportunities along the migratory flyway. The park's shoreline is distinguished by cobblestone beaches rather than sand. It is located on the Lake Michigan coastline in Belgium, Wisconsin.

Photo spot

The shoreline boardwalk offering a panoramic view of the Lake Michigan horizon.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear as the beach consists of smooth rocks rather than sand, which can be unstable to walk on.

Check the official observatory schedule before visiting to align your trip with public stargazing nights.

Bring binoculars to observe migratory birds, particularly during the spring and autumn transition seasons.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to swim in Quarry Lake if you are not a strong swimmer, as the water is deep and spring-fed; avoid visiting the beach during high-wind events when waves can be hazardous.

Good to know

The observatory programs are seasonal and weather-dependent; the park remains open year-round but swimming areas are not supervised outside of peak summer.

Etiquette

Carry out all trash to maintain the pristine condition of the dunes and beach; stay on marked trails to protect native flora.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-5 hours
Best time to visit
Summer for swimming, or autumn evenings for stargazing at the observatory.
Address
Harrington Beach State Park, 531 Co Rd D, Belgium, WI 53004, United States
43.493, -87.804
Get directions
Details
Geological FeaturesCobblestone beach and spring-fed quarry lake
FacilitiesAstronomy observatory and migratory bird trails

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Summer for swimming, or autumn evenings for stargazing at the observatory..

The shoreline boardwalk offering a panoramic view of the Lake Michigan horizon.

Close by you'll find Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve, Kohler-Andrae State Park, Cedarburg Bog State Natural Area.