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Parks

Point Beach State Forest

4.8 · 1,082 reviews
Natural, serene, and windswept
Point Beach State Forest, 9400 County Rd O, Two Rivers, WI 54241, United States
Interesting facts
1

The Rawley Point Lighthouse is one of the tallest operating lighthouses on the Great Lakes, standing 113 feet high.

2

The forest contains a rare geological feature known as ridge and swale topography, indicating historical lake levels.

3

The lighthouse is currently managed by the U.S. Coast Guard and is an active automated light station.

4

The beach is composed of post-glacial sand deposits that have accumulated over thousands of years.

5

The park land was originally part of a larger tract known as the 'Ridges' before becoming a state forest.

6

The Rawley Point area has served as a critical navigation point for maritime traffic since the mid-1800s.

Overview

Point Beach State Forest spans 2,900 acres along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. The park features six miles of sandy beach, which is a major draw for summer visitors. It contains the historic Rawley Point Lighthouse, an active Coast Guard navigation aid since the 19th century. The terrain includes a series of long, low ridges and swales created by receding glacial Lake Michigan levels. Vegetation ranges from sand dunes and beach grass to pine and hemlock forests. The park offers over 100 campsites, including family-oriented sites and group campgrounds. Miles of trails are maintained for hiking in summer and cross-country skiing in winter. The property is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Photo spot

The beach shoreline looking toward the Rawley Point Lighthouse at sunrise.

Insider tips

Bring insect repellent, as the wooded areas and wetlands can have high mosquito activity in mid-summer.

Check the official DNR website for fire bans or beach safety alerts before your arrival.

Plan for a significant walk if you intend to visit the lighthouse, as access is restricted to the exterior grounds.

What to avoid

Attempting to climb or enter the Rawley Point Lighthouse, as it is a restricted federal facility.

Good to know

Campsites are available seasonally; some facilities may close during winter months.

Etiquette

Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile dune ecosystem and avoid removing natural artifacts like stones or wood.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-5 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in late summer for cooler temperatures and fewer beach crowds.
Address
Point Beach State Forest, 9400 County Rd O, Two Rivers, WI 54241, United States
44.183, -87.527
Get directions
Details
Terrain typeRidge and swale glacial landscape
Key featureRawley Point Lighthouse

Frequently asked

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

The best time to visit is Early morning in late summer for cooler temperatures and fewer beach crowds..

The beach shoreline looking toward the Rawley Point Lighthouse at sunrise.

Close by you'll find Neshotah Park, Still Bend / Schwartz House, Wisconsin Maritime Museum.